For what you want any Android phone or tablet, any Chromebook or any Windows laptop will do. For reading novels an e-reader is recommended much more than any of those.
I do not own a cell phone however I want to buy a notebook type unit. I will use it with my home wifi and with free wifi when on a trip. I will use it for access to internet for purchasing or finding hotels and maps, or reading novels etc. Do I have to buy a $600 plus model or would a $150 one cover me - I am not a 'wonk' and I don't want to over buy.

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