“Be kind to your books! Your books are your friends!”
I grew up hearing this phrase over and over. At first it seemed that one of the main goals was simply to keep me from chucking a book across the room or writing all over the inside cover. Yet, throughout the years that phrase has taken on a whole new meaning.
Some of my best and truest friends were introduced to me between the pages of a good book. One of the best parts about books is that they’re always there. It’s never too late to “call” them. You can never outstay your welcome.
I’ve lived, laughed, cried, learned, and grown with so many characters. I’ve seen people that I never want to become, I’ve seen when I’ve allowed some bad character traits to creep into my life, and I’ve seen people that I would be honored to call a trusted and treasured friend.
I grew up between the pages of many books…
Learned the value of true friendship with Pooh and Piglet…
Been obediently rebellious with Laura…
Giggled and been mischievous with Anne-with-an-e…
Imagined the chocolate factory alongside Charlie…
Danced with glee along with Mr Tumnus in the winter festivals…
Stood in amazement at the selfless, sacrificial love of Ruth…
Fallen in love with Mr. Darcy and Mr. Knightly as I felt the depth of Elizabeth’s and Emma’s love…
Learned the pain of injustice and the plight of the broken with Fantine…
Discovered the bonds of sisterhood with Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy…
Gazed deep into Aslan’s eyes and heard him speak ‘dear heart’ to my heart…
Solved baffling mysteries with Sherlock…
Been inspired by the unimaginable strength and love and persistence of Elizabeth…
These books (and many more) have shaped me, helped define my character, and given me a refuge of worlds that I’ve come to love.
Now that I am a momma, I see these books coming alive to my children. I hear the phrase repeated, “Be cawe-ful! Da book is your fwriend!” over and over throughout my day. It makes my heart smile to hear this refrain from the hearts of these young ones.
It’s to true! Our books are our friends – and they contain life-long friends! Never underestimate the power of a good book. Never underestimate the joy that can be found in it’s pages. Never underestimate the bonding that comes as you read books with your children.
My life has been indelibly marked by different books and my love for them. I now have to privilege and opportunity to pass that love along to my children. Would you like to come along with us on this journey? I can’t wait to get started!
Additional Resources:
- Epic Travel Adventures for You to Enjoy: Travels with Gannon & Wyatt
- The World of Narnia and the Lessons to be Learned There
- A Revealing Look at the Powers of Persuasion
- Roald Dahl: Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
- Escape in the Pages: 21 Books for You to Enjoy
Elizabeth Tatham, founder of Inspiration in the Everyday, is a homeschooling momma of 5 who loves helping other homeschooling mommas create a unique homeschooling adventure your kids will love…without the overwhelm! Join in on the journey with 7 simple steps to make your homeschooling day go faster, easier, and with less tears here.