Why We Read
A book is a garden, an orchard, a storehouse, a party, a company by the way, a counselor, a multitude of counselors.
— Henry Ward Beecher
…maybe a book is also a mountain with its first snow of the year: fresh, lovely, anticipated, magical (this doesn’t really fit with Beecher’s imagery, but I works for me!).
A book is… add your idea below.
…an exhilarating stroll through an unknown place.
a warm and comforting blanket.
an escape into a wonderful world filled with magic and new people to meet.
…the best mental vacation you can take. :)
…the great escape into someone else’s life, love story, problems.
Jefferson said, “I cannot live without books.” I think that sums it up! ;)
Thanks for the birthday wishes today!
I’m going to agree with Heather.
It’s the best escape!
…is such a good friend, whether we know them well or not.
This discussion thread reminds me of the picture book BOOK by George Ella Lyon, illustrated by Peter Catalonotto.The author creates a series of extended metaphors that describe a book as a house, a chest, a farm. While unusual at first blush, they really capture the reasons that we read: to find the comfort and security we often feel at home, to experience a sense of discovery that we might experience when we open a chest, to forge an organic relationship with the author. I heartily recommend this book to any of you who teach.
This is why I love Pat Austin — a wealth of knowledge. So glad you’ve set up a Blogger acct., Pat!
Your description of BOOK makes me think of A HOUSE IS A HOUSE FOR ME by Hoberman. It’s great fun to read and a creative way to look at the world.
…hope, dream, escape…the opportunity to live another life without leaving your couch!
Recently, books have been my diversion. Whenever things get tough, I’ve always had a book to help me forget it and get lost in something else.
…can be a safe sanctuary to heal.
I love that quote. Thanks for sharing. :)
Great quote.
A book is — another world.