I am probably going to get brew kit listed here for my brother for xmas. I am also considering replacing the glass carboy with a "better bottle" because he tends to break things, and because I like the one that I have partially for that reason.

http://www.maltose.com/Construction/Beer_Making.html

Thoughts? It seems to be appropriate for a starter, as well as being reasonably priced. I am not sure if the books are a worthwhile addition

Seems solid, and agree with you on the better bottle. Personally I dont really ever use glass carboys for my beer.

Oh also if you can take the books out for a decent amount I would say check amazon and get the books you actually want because often they can be found for little to nothing more than shipping.

thanks for the input, hopefully the package has some flexibility (thats what she said)

Well when you think the better bottle is most likely cheaper than the glass since Mexico stopped producing them it should be the case.

Awesome gift idea. There are pros and cons of each but getting a start in homebrewing should be relatively cheap until he decides if he likes it or catches the bug and wants to start brewing more.