If you want to read books on a computer, I think you will be better off with a Kindle or a Nook. It is LOTS easier to read on them, and you can attach a headset and they will read to you as well.
I have an ASUS e-book and a first generation Kindle, and it is far far superior than trying to read on a tablet. It has a permanent connection to Amazon and even has a tiny keyboard. I bought both the ASUS and the Kindle on Woot!, and I like them both. A tablet with no keyboard sounds like a rather dumb idea, also more expensive than either a netbook or a Kindle, and perhaps even both. When I travel, I have a sportcoat that I got from Haband that has a pocket that the Kindle fits into perfectly, so it is ideal for travel. The Netbook, not so much.
The battery on the Kindle charges faster and lasts longer, and the screen is much easier to read. If you can, try them both before spending your money.
I think I will eventually get a Kindle Fire, since it has a lighted screen.