Oh I feel this! We don’t have children but we are building a collection of picture books and kidlit for these exact reasons. The amount of joy I find in those books in indescribable!
Also, I’ve quickly added The Very Hungry Cattarpillar to my wishlist because HOW do I not have that one yet, it was one of my favourites growing up!
Truly an enjoyable piece, Phoebe! I would add that Substack is slowly changing how we connect and support the writers who influenced us --- which is nothing less than awesome.
I relate to your love of books and how they have influenced you. They are such loyal, constant friends that meet us with crucial advice, inspiration and affirmation. I am working in a piece about books as well and look forward to posting it.
I definitely relate to needing to empty myself to take in new experiences! Books will always be a vital part of what fills my cup, but I'm learning in midlife to be open to other "medicines." Thanks for inviting this reflection!
Oh this is so interesting and I totally understand this sentiment. My many shelves of books are like a comfort blanket, with books in most rooms they are part of our home, but I often clear the shelves in my writing room of ALL books so I can focus on a new project with as empty a mind as possible.
Thanks Beth. Yes, shelves of beloved books are the best form of interior decoration I think - and definitely comforting. But I also understand the idea of clearing your writing room to focus on a project.
I'm glad you enjoyed. My library was closed at the time due to Covid, but a couple of Op shops (thrift stores) were still open in a nearby town, so they were happy to receive... hopeful books went to homes where they were appreciated.
Oh I feel this! We don’t have children but we are building a collection of picture books and kidlit for these exact reasons. The amount of joy I find in those books in indescribable!
Also, I’ve quickly added The Very Hungry Cattarpillar to my wishlist because HOW do I not have that one yet, it was one of my favourites growing up!
So happy to hear this. Yes, the best picture books are for all ages. 🧡
Truly an enjoyable piece, Phoebe! I would add that Substack is slowly changing how we connect and support the writers who influenced us --- which is nothing less than awesome.
That's a great point, Jana. Awesome indeed! 💛
I relate to your love of books and how they have influenced you. They are such loyal, constant friends that meet us with crucial advice, inspiration and affirmation. I am working in a piece about books as well and look forward to posting it.
Thanks Elena. I will watch out for your post.
I definitely relate to needing to empty myself to take in new experiences! Books will always be a vital part of what fills my cup, but I'm learning in midlife to be open to other "medicines." Thanks for inviting this reflection!
Oh this is so interesting and I totally understand this sentiment. My many shelves of books are like a comfort blanket, with books in most rooms they are part of our home, but I often clear the shelves in my writing room of ALL books so I can focus on a new project with as empty a mind as possible.
Thanks Beth. Yes, shelves of beloved books are the best form of interior decoration I think - and definitely comforting. But I also understand the idea of clearing your writing room to focus on a project.
I'm glad you enjoyed. My library was closed at the time due to Covid, but a couple of Op shops (thrift stores) were still open in a nearby town, so they were happy to receive... hopeful books went to homes where they were appreciated.