I have been focusing on reading new books for awhile now. I love the crispness of the pages, the crackle of a spine, and the gleaming plastic covers of new library books. I am going to be reviewing the third book in a very popular series for School Library Journal. I moaned knowing that I would have to read the first two books before writing the review.
But I am not moaning anymore. First, because the books are wonderful. Second, because I had forgotten the joys of well-loved and well-read library books. I am loving the creaminess and softness of the pages that become furred and vellum-like. I enjoy the way the spine happily flops open. And I like all of the little marks on the pages that show how enjoyed this book has been in so many different places and ways. I think I would take a well-loved, used book over a blindingly-white uncracked book any day.