Reading on the trail is a common pastime in shelters. Megan, "AppalchainTrailGirl" brought along books and often read during night time in her tent. Among other hikers, they all would occasionally switch books up and down the trail or hiker boxes found around trail towns. The downside of bringing books depends if you are comfortable with your paperback getting muddy, wet, or lost. 

Kindles are super light weight devices that allow easy access to multiple books in one sitting. A kindle only weighs around 7oz.  Hikers can easily download any book using wifi. The downside to using the kindle, it requires backup battery charge and unpredictable weather conditions. Despite factors, reading is a luxury on the trail as it surrounds you with nature and is relaxing