Day 1389

My belief is that books might just be the most creative things on earth. Once you learn the magical mystery of reading, the universe is now open for any adventure you choose. Even Charlie and Hank are mesmerized by the rhythmic quality of Asher’s voice as he reads to them each morning.

Remembering my own journey of “learning to read”, I recall flashcards, worksheets and not-so-riveting stories about Dick and Jane. It is amazing our attention was held for any amount of time. It would seem that the mystical quality of reading books kept us in the game.

Today’s authors of children’s literature are engaging and educational. When Piggy and Gerald (Mo Willems) discover there is a bird on an elephant’s head or that elephants can’t dance, there is humor, engaging illustrations and strategic learning on every page. Those characters even offer engagement to this rather “seasoned” reader!

The Big White House has thousands of books. The Colonel left a library of 2000 or so from the turn of the century (mostly 1880s and 1890s), Mac has an extensive collection and my own children’s literature fascination has brought hundreds more into the fold. Each one not only tells a story but holds a story of its inception. All are gifts.

Read a book! If you want to share one, find a dog to snuggle with…they are the best listeners of all!