I think a lot of the problems raised about ebook usage could be easily fixed:
- Size - get publishers to use a smaller page size to fit ebooks. I do this when I copy texts for reading.
- page numbers - just add them, it doesn't require new technology
- annotation - I never write on my p books, but many devices have annotation
For the last 2 years at university I used a netbook and a Kobo, all carried in one convenient satchel. The new Asus Transformer sounds even better, with its detachable keyboard.
These devices would be too expensive and fragile for young children, but for age 16 and over they would save a lot of book-lugging.