“Next to acquiring good friends, the best acquisition is that of a good book.”
--Charles Caleb Colton
The best part of ourselves responds to the best in others, including books. As I write about a book, I will highlight “personal applications” throughout each discussion to focus on what we can learn from such friends.
Reading for Pleasure
I love to read. It is my favorite hobby. When I have a lull, I reach for a book. I may be reading three or more books at the same time. I find much pleasure in reading! I read an eclectic mix: historical fiction and non-fiction, contemporary best-sellers, juvenile fiction, inspirational and religious writings, biographies, classics, poetry, and mysteries. I especially enjoy reading a mystery when I just want to relax. But pleasure is fleeting and, admittedly, I don’t recall plots or characters in much of the pleasure reading I do.
Reading and Joy
“Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.”
--Francis Bacon
But there are many books with staying power–such that I do remember plots and themes, identify with favorite characters and love to discuss the meaning of symbols. These are books that transport me into another world, that teach me about myself and that enlighten my mind. These books are a fountain of joy. I can return to them again and again and continue to be refreshed.
I have three criteria for finding these types of books, though it’s usually a subconscious evaluation. Does the book contain depth, does it deliver inspiration, and does it engender awareness?
“I suggest that the only books that influence us are those for which we are ready, and which have gone a little further down our particular path than we have yet got ourselves.”
–E. M. Forster
Depth
First, does the book have interest beyond the story itself? Does it contain images and symbols? Can it be read on various levels? Does it have themes that are thought-provoking? Does it motivate discussion about life’s questions?
For instance, my first essay was a book review of Barbara Kingsolver’s The Bean Trees. Not only is this an entertaining story, it also explores many of life’s greatest concerns. A coming-of-age story, the book also focuses on relationships and commitments, personal growth and the nature of love.
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