Would you define yourself as a bibliophile (a person who loves and/or collects book)?  If reading is an integral part of your life, you will be delighted with a new book written by Anne Bogel and published by Baker Books in the fall of 2018.  “I’d Rather Be Reading: The Delights and Dilemmas of the Reading Life” is a charming little book that is filled with essays about all aspects of the roles reading plays in our lives… Simultaneously humorous and thought-provoking, wise and winsome, this book is a pleasant little gift volume for any bibliophile in your life – including yourself!

Have you ever considered what the first book was that ignited your lifelong love of reading?  Hooked on the Story, chapter 5 of this book, thoughtfully considers this question.

How about trying a facelift for your bookshelves using a new organization method, such as by colour or Trivial Pursuit category?  If these ideas haven’t yet crossed your mind, don’t miss chapter 8 entitled How to Organize Your Bookshelves for a good laugh, and possibly a new decorating idea!

And have you ever thought about starting a reading log (anything ranging from a simple list to a detailed spreadsheet complete with inspiring quotes and a detailed synopsis)?  If you are looking for inspiration to get started, check out the final essay of the book with the same name as the title: I’d Rather Be Reading.

Obviously this is only a sampling of the 21 essays in this book, but they were a few of my favourites.  Many of the chapters I wanted to share with all my bibliophile family and friends, other chapters were a little boring and difficult to relate to, and a couple chapters were so over-the-top that I couldn’t help but roll my eyes a little (perhaps the author’s intention!).  Overall, however, “I’d Rather Be Reading” rounds out to a pleasant way to celebrate the beautiful blessing of reading in our lives, and inspires us towards mindfulness to and gratitude for the gift of books.  I definitely recommend this charming little volume, and would recommend getting two copies – one for a bibliophile friend, and one to keep for yourself.

I am grateful to have received a copy of this book, free of charge, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.