Agreeing on the e-reader front!

That said, I would also recommend talking to the reader/giftee before buying any e-reader (generally) or a Kindle (specifically).

I don't know if you (the person I'm replying under) is recommending Kindle (the brand) or using Kindle as a blanket term for e-readers (like how people call all bandages "Bandaids" or all tissues "Kleenex").

Not all e-readers are made equal, and when I was in the market for an e-reader, I specifically avoided Kindle because I hate the constant ad bombardment and how little of the homescreen is dedicated to the reader and their library.

TL;DR: e-reader, yes! Kindle, maybe! And talk to the giftee first!

Edit to add: the funny thing is: I had 100% settled on the Kobo Clara 2e. Then, for some reason, I got it in my head to look for a color e-reader (I had planned to use the Clara for knitting/crocheting magazines; diagrams are better in color), and then I was like, "for that, I'll just get a cheap tablet."

And then I remembered that I already owned a 6-yr old tablet I wasn't using, so I bought an "anti-glare/matte" screen protector and uninstalled all apps except those related to reading/learning, and it's an amazing e-reader.

The ONLY downside is that it's too big to fit inside my daily purse, but it was essentially free. I'll use it until it dies, and then replace it with a real e-reader later.

2nd edit: I also installed a free app that lets me make the tablet light dimmer and warmer. The default dimmest setting was still too bright and blue.