You might want to checkout the Pocketbook models.
The 301 is the standard 6" reader. The 602 adds a couple of improvements like WiFi, Text to Speech, Dictionary.
http://www.pocketbook-usa.com/products/compare/1:6/
There is a Pocketbook Forum here on Mobile Read if you have any questions about them.
I'm wondering though, if you don't want WiFi or 3G and he doesn't have a computer, will you be loading books on for him?