
It's been quite a while since I read a book. No, that's not right. I read books all the time; I listen to them on audio almost every day and, to a lesser degree, I've read many books in their digital forms, though it took me a while to succumb to the lure of my Kindle. I have to admit I've been spoiled by easy access to definitions of words I'm not sure of, and best of all, the ability to enlarge the print to something that gives my old eyes a break. But it's been a good long while since I've picked up a book in old-fashioned, hard copy print. So when my birthday came and I received a subscription to a book club that not only sends you a book, but little gifts to open as you read, I was intrigued and motivated by curiosity. As I held the new book in my hands, I remembered the feel of new, smooth, unspoiled pages, I used to revel in before the age of audio and digital. I needed to remind myself to sit in the light so I could read the small print, and recall how to hold the book in a way it would be easy to read without crumpling those lovely new pages. Once I was settled and comfortable in my chair, I set about the joy of falling into a new story, and wondering where it would lead. Before long I'd reached the place where I could open the first little gift, a lovely complement to highlight the written words. There are more surprises waiting as I turn the pages, but the best gift is being reminded of how special it is to feel a book solid in your hands, while the world dissolves around you.
Elise Skidmore ©2020

Author’s note—If you’re interested in learning more about the Once Upon A Book Club, just click the link. This is not meant to be advertising and I get no kickbacks from them. My only thought is that it would be easier for you to read what they’re all about than me trying to explain the details.
Did not tell you, when I read the hard copies of The Gunslinger, I thought it was better, love ya!
LOL. I don’t know that it makes a difference if the book is good anyway, but it has been a while since I picked up an actual book rather than my Kindle to read a book. It did feel nice, once I got used to it again.