My wait for my Amazon Kindle was delayed by an extra two weeks. I don't really think it would have mattered how much earlier I ordered the Kindle, it was fated to be delivered while I was out of the country. A little extra salt in the wound: it was delivered the day I flew out.

But I have it now and I have to say I LOVE it! To fill the time waiting to actually receive the Amazon Kindle I watched videos on YouTube and read reviews. I was prepared for the initial awkwardness of the design and was mindful of where I put my fingers to avoid accidentally flipping pages. I stood on the shoulders of those who went before me and learned from their experience.

My biggest concern was what should I first read on the device? I considered revisiting some favorite book, such as "Time Enough for Love" or "Stranger in a Strange Land," both by the late, great Robert A. Heinlein. But this is a brand new first-wave techware, I argued. I should christen it with something new.

I compromised, as I often do when debating with myself. I bought a new book from an old favorite. I've read everything Larry Niven has published. I've enjoyed most of it, though his later pieces seem a little disjointed ("Ringworld Throne"?). His new collaboration with Edward M. Lerner, "Fleet of Worlds," is a wonderful revisit to an untold tale of Known Space. It seemed the perfect inauguration.

Quick summary of the experience: check the title. I'm really glad I made the investment. I have subscribed to "The Irish Times" and am currently reading "The Great Gatsby." I love the ease of ordering, the immediacy of the delivery, and the quick-checking of unfamiliar words in the included dictionary.

Get one.