Er --- buy a new backpack, the iPad fits in my one fine - lots cheaper than buying a new device- also I find it hard to believe you couldn't tell the difference between a textbook and the iPad based on feel- on this logic apple wold need to provide multiple sizes to optimize the screen size for every permutation of backpack and clothing. Not going to happen- Apple will hit what it thinks are the sweet spots that will suit the majority of people not produce 500 different variants to meet all of the I want USB,FireWire,sd card slot, 5 inch,7 inch.....requests. The discussions in these forums indicate to me that they do a pretty good job generally. Some people will always want some variation or other but Apple gets the options broadly right. If you want pocket sized go iPhone or touch if you carry a bag the iPad is very useable