You probably like to read in bed, which is no problem if you and your partner are on the same page, so to speak. But what if you're utterly enthralled with a new thriller and he is utterly exhausted, and begging you to turn out the lights? With a personal reading light, you can both have your way. A portable reading light is also perfect for the train or plane, to avoid incurring the wrath of the red-eyed fellow traveler trying to snooze in the next seat. And with models designed for kids, it's a fun way to have them read bedtime stories to themselves. Real Simple tested several models under real-life conditions to find the best light for your needs (as well as those of the one beside you).

Best for Reading in Bed at Home

Itty Bitty Book Light, $32
Power source: AC/DC adapter (included) or four C batteries.
Bulb: Bright incandescent. Comes with one spare; others can be purchased at major bookstore chains and Bed Bath & Beyond.
Pros: Clips securely to a hardcover or paperback, so you can turn pages easily. The bulb housing and arm are lightweight and highly adjustable, allowing you to aim the light precisely. The bright, warm light makes for easy reading, with no eyestrain. The AC/DC adapter eliminates the need for costly batteries.
Cons: Aside from the goofy name? Two-piece construction (separate battery pack or AC/DC adapter) makes this light harder to tote than other models. The four C batteries are heavy and expensive.
Effect on partner: Fell asleep without a single grumble.
To Buy: Available at Barnes & Noble stores, www.zelco.com, or www.amazon.com.

Best for the Traveller

Fluorescent Book Light by Phorm, $21.50
Power source: Four AA batteries or included AC/DC adapter.
Bulb: Japanese-made fluorescent rated at 10,000 hours. After that, you're on your own, but that's a lot of books.
Pros: Lightweight and well designed, the unit clips to a hardcover or clamps onto several pages of a paperback for a secure fit. The arm moves up and down, and the head tilts so you can make exact adjustments for minimal disturbance of a sleeping partner.
Cons: Some may not like the chilly fluorescent glow. Effect on partner: Not a peep.
To Buy: Lee Valley, 800-871-8158 or www.leevalley.com.

Best for Kids Age AGE 6 TO 14

Capstone Timely Reader, $12
Power source: Four AA batteries or an AC/DC adapter (sold separately).
Bulb: Incandescent. Replacements can be ordered.
Pros: Kid-friendly features include a protective shield over the bulb and a timer that can be set for 5 to 90 minutes; it beeps when time is running out and turns off automatically (so no falling asleep with a light on, or staying up all night, either).
Cons: The clamp doesn't grip as tightly as it might. Effect on roommates: Stuffed animals don't seem to mind, though rivalrous siblings might.
To Buy: At Toys "R" Us, Kids "R" Us, and . E-mail janek@capstoneindustries.com for store locations.

Best for the Reader on a Budget

Fliplite, $10
Power source: Runs on either two or four AA batteries; the four-battery configuration lasts longer.
Bulb: Incandescent. Replacements are available.
Pros: Great price. Compact one-piece design makes the FlipLite suitable for travel. Can also be used as a freestanding mini table lamp.
Cons: Doesn't focus as well as more expensive models, so it's more difficult to illuminate one's reading without disturbing a bedmate.
Effect on partner: "How long till you finish that chapter?"
To Buy: Available at Barnes & Noble stores, www.barnesandnoble.com

Best for Dense Hardcovers, Magazines

The Lightwedge, $35
Power source: Batteries only, 4 AAA's.
Bulb: The LED lamp is warranted to last "forever." Has two light levels.
Pros: Runs up to 40 hours on one set of batteries. Light stays focused on the page, causing minimal disturbance for others. Doubles as a bookmark.
Cons: You need to hold it in place and reposition it every time you turn a page. The light is not very bright and probably not ideal for long stretches of reading.
Effect on partner: The low glow of the LED didn't prompt a single "Turn off that light!" complaint.
To Buy: Barnes & Noble stores or www.levenger.com.