If you have avid readers on your Christmas gift list (like I do), you might want to consider the Amazon Kindle book reader
.  My wife and I have both been wanting one of these for the last couple of years.  This year, the price has come down to $139 which puts it in the ballpark.

The Kindle features a white screen with e-ink “printing” technology.  It’s easy on the eyes and can even be read in bright sunlight.  That’s something you can’t do with most tablet PCs.

It’s roughly the same size as many  paperback books, but comes with a 6″ viewing screen.  At 8.5 ounces, it’s actually lighter than most printed paperbacks.  Plus, it will hold up to 3,500 books.

One of the neatest features (IMHO) is the built-in Twitter and Facebook functionality.  Now, you can “tweet” about your favorite book without putting it down.  You’ve got to love that.

There are over 700,000 books to choose from so you should be able to find a lot that you like.  Plus, Kindle books are usually less expensive than their printed counterparts.  Many out-of-copyright books are available for free.

The $139 version downloads books through Wi-Fi.  There is a $189 version that has Wi-Fi and 3G capabilities.  Also, there is a larger Kindle DX with a 9.7 inch screen for $379.00.

No matter which one you choose, I think the Kindle would be an excellent Christmas gift for the book lover on your list.

Keep this to yourself but please don’t tell my wife.  It’ll ruin the surprise.