The other day as I was driving by a book store in Kansas City, my car veered off the road and I was compelled to go in. It's been too long since I have been inside the haven that is a local independent bookstore. Getting books from the library, or buying them on-line is so easy that I have forgotten what a wonderful experience it is to wander around a bookstore.
I love the "virtual exploration" of books as much as the next guy, and getting a free sample on a reader is great. But there is something about the smell of a bookstore, and the way that books are grouped in unexpected ways that just can't be beat. I had so much fun in the one in Kansas City that I went to two more in Lawrence when I got back to town.
I made extremely good use of my time during these explorations. I found one book I have been planning to buy, 2 that were on my "must check out" list, and one I had to pick up (and ultimately purchase) because of the cool cover. I have been sitting in front of this pile running my hands over the covers and the pages. Do you do that too? I like to see with my hands. It's been a problem my whole life.
The same day I came home with my 4 new books I also got "Can't we Talk About Something More Pleasant?" in the mail from my friend Joyce. I feel like a queen surrounded by luxury! Reading by the fire is on the agenda for the upcoming cold months. My neatly typed book reports will be coming shortly.
Oh I love small indie bookshops! They are so few and far between anymore, at least around here. Good for you that you bought books and I look forward to your book reports. Neat handwriting is also acceptable (after all I had to be able to read 187 middle schooler's handwriting!!).
Posted by: Rhonda H | 12/03/2014 at 02:56 PM
Oh, yes I totally understand the thrill of a bookstore. New books, old books, or books in between, it really doesn't matters to me. I too fondle the books. Enjoy your new escapes. Looking forward to the book reports.
Posted by: Amy in Texas | 12/03/2014 at 06:45 PM
Oh my goodness I am so envious! Almost all our indie bookshops have gone in NW England! They look a real treat. I could spend all day there!
Posted by: Jan McCann | 12/05/2014 at 02:17 PM
Indie bookstores, plural???? We have none, only Barnes & Noble remains after Borders closed all their stores. The one used book store is struggling.
Posted by: Joan | 12/05/2014 at 06:56 PM
Enjoy The Rosie Project! I did a writing workshop with Graeme Simsion last year. He was actually a script/screen writer and that was his first novel. It was interesting to hear about the switch... must look out my notes :)
Posted by: Bobby | 12/06/2014 at 07:36 PM