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This depends largely on personal taste, but let me offer you another perspective. I have an eInk device or two, and an iPad Pro 9.7 (basically the same size as the new basic iPad). I do more reading on my eInk devices than on my iPad, but I find myself doing more and more on the iPad. As far as weight goes, a hardcover novel would weigh more than the iPad. Some people like a larger screen as it gives them more flexibility in font size and viewing any graphics the book may contain.
When I read with the iPad, I have it in landscape and use both hands to hold it. But it's no more tiring to hold than a hardcover book would be. Maybe a little less so. In fact, this 2017 basic iPad doesn't weigh that much more than your mini.
As far as web surfing goes, the iPad does well enough. Probably similar to your mini - only with a larger screen!
I understand about living in the boonies, as I am in rural Maine. Still, the best thing to do is to try out the larger screen for yourself. The weight won't be an issue. The only question is whether you like the larger size for reading - and only you can know the answer to that!
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