Depends on the airline, but I often sit in the bulkhead, and have been asked to stow (for takeoff) items including my tablet and a blanket, so in those instances, no, they would not have allowed even a tiny purse. I would say if it doesn't fit in the literature pocket, then it is too big to be able to access during taxi/take off / landing. I don't know what the issue is tho, just pop it above your head at the last minute for take off, and get it down again as soon as the seat belt sign goes off - you can have what you like at your seat / by your feet once in the air.