Whats good about the Ipod touch?

Okay. My mom came up on a big tax bonus and I asked for an Ipod touch. She might get it but I think she needs more convincing, what's good about it? Preferably something about education she stresses that alot. And overall how expensive is it, I would want music on there and also, my mom has rhapsody and would I be able to put music on my ipod from rhapsody? Or does iTunes have a monthly payment like rhapsody? Thanks I really need help.