Sylvie, I wouldn't call the Kindle 3 a "fragile" device, I keep a cover on mine more as a just-in-case thing. You know like just-in-case my granddaughter accidentally knocks it off the table, it'll have some protection. And just-in-case my keys or wallet get pushed up against it inside my purse, the cover protects the screen from being scratched or broken. I don't consider it delicate, but it is an expensive electronic device, and with all the books I've purchased for it, it's worth even more
Besides that, I love pretty covers, it's fun to dress up my Kindle.