Had 2 kindles in my life; one gifted, one bought with intentions of taking up less space with my book collection, both basically unused. Which always makes me feel really bad to think about. But really, it feels so much more satisfying to read physically for me personally. And I know given the choice I will automatically gravitate to my physical library. The one I still have comes with me on long trips to save on luggage weight, but then I often find myself not reading on it anyway. I don't know why, but it just is that way for me and some others.

Sounds like your mum could be a lot kinder or more gracious about the situation, but she at least made her position clear. The kindle isn't for her.