The Art of Living Through Books

To acquire the habit of reading is to construct for yourself a refuge from almost all the miseries of life. ~W. Somerset Maugham

Books. Is there a way to live without them? I was shocked to read in a 2013 poll that 41% of Americans have not read a novel in the past year and 42% have not read a nonfiction book. Since discovering these stats, I've been thinking how to change that percentage. 

How do you share the wonder of the written word? How do you describe what books smell like or how they feel in your hand? How do you explain that little hiccup in your heart when you walk into a bookstore, or the sound of a newly released book calling to you? 

Books have formed me into the person I am.  

I skated with Hans Brinker and rode out west in the wagon with Laura. I strung prisms and played the glad game with Polyanna. I wrote with Jo and cried when Beth died. I tasted elderberry wine with Anne with an "e" and mourned Gentle Ben.

I raised my kids with Dr. Dobson and wrapped silver boxes with Florence Littauer. I experienced God with Blackaby and prayed Jabez's prayer alongside Wilkinson. I forgave my enemies with Carrie ten Boom and climbed to high places with Hannah Hurnard.

More recently, I have declared with Anne Graham Lotz, Just Give Me Jesus. I've counted gifts with Ann Voskamp and prayed with Stormie Omartain. I've wept over Randy Alcorn's dedication in Safely Home and prayed circles around my children. I have spent mornings with Henri Nouwen and learned to uncover the art I was made to live with Emily Freeman.

I learned God would still my rocking boat and so much more. And I wouldn't change the knowledge I gained for all the chocolate truffles in the world.  

In God's Word I spent the night with lions and killed a giant. I made tents with Priscilla and sewed with Dorcas. I wore a crown with Esther and traveled with my mother-in-law, Naomi. I wrestled with an angel and built an ark. I traveled with Abraham and grumbled with the Children of Israel. I asked God questions and sang His praises with the Psalms, and built Ebeneezer altars with Samuel.

I do love my books, but if I had to pick one book -- the Scriptures win. Perfect truth is found there -- grace and instruction. When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart’s delight (Jeremiah 15:16).