FROM THE BOOKSELLER 13 SEPTEMBER

Frankfurt launch for Amazon Kindle?

Speculation is mounting that Amazon will unveil its long awaited "Kindle" e-book reader at the Frankfurt Book Fair. The device is reportedly equipped with a wireless modem allowing users to browse the internet without connecting directly to a computer.

It is also reported to have a small keyboard allowing for internet navigation as well as a scroll wheel to help users flick through text.Technology blog Engadget said: "From the sound of it, publishing execs are pinning quite a bit of hope on Amazon and its device, with one even going so far as to [say] that 'if these guys can't make it work, I see no hope'."

HarperCollins UK c.e.o. Victoria Barnsley is among the publishers to have seen a prototype Kindle. She told the London Book Fair in April that she had seen the Amazon reader and was "rather impressed" with the device.An Amazon spokesman refused to comment, saying that recent reports were "rumour and speculation".