Had my first look at the new Kindle in action this week, when the guy across from me on the train quietly unveiled his new wireless reading device.

I’ve clicked through Amazon’s soothing tutorial, whilst shopping for some “real” books from Amazon a few weeks ago–though never seen a real one in use by a Jerseyan.

That day has passed.

I watched in jealous horror as he “thumbed” through several pages of text, and even stopped and brought up a pop-up window to type some quick notes. (I’m convinced that by then, he was just showing off–aware of me gawking over his shoulder from across the aisle.)

Albeit expensive and perhaps a bit fragile, the Kindle seems like a very good reading option for the commuter train.  Cleaner than a traditional newspaper and lighter than an elitist nonfiction doorstop book. Gadget-wise, it’s more lithe than a laptop, and would be an obvious improvement for the khaki-packs, hunched over their blackberrys, squinting and scrolling endlessly through ESPN.com and WSJ.com each morning.
- jersey jim