Baskets and Boxes of Books by the Door
Boxes and baskets are filled with books at our house. Some boxes have books to give away to the local Little Free Library. Others contain books “to be read”. One huge basket sits by the front door. With a gold and white handle, this particular basket is filled to the rim with books for children. From my own book, “Licky the Lizard” to books by local authors, new authors and well known authors, there is a great variety to choose from.
Picture books with animals, shapes and numbers. Early reader books with basic words to learn. Well known classics are in the baskets and boxes, too. Being able to pick the right one is important to the young ones wanting to read. Encouraging the child to make their own choice is special.
When grandson Rowan or any other child visits, there are always plenty of stories to be read and shared. If we decide to go outside and sit on the porch to read, we can choose from the books in the baskets and boxes and have one or more stories ready to read.
Looking out of my home office window, recently I have noticed toddlers and parents taking walks in the early morning and the late evening. Perhaps the evening walk helps settle the youngsters for bedtime. There are some toddlers carrying books and stuffed animals. I can imagine the fun times enjoyed by all as the young one reads to their stuffed animals.
I am thankful for the authors and the stories they create and share. Someone asked me if I make a lot of money as an author. My reply was this. “I don’t write to make money. I write to share the love of God and the love of reading and writing.” So, no, I don’t write to make money.
Seeing children of all ages choosing a book, holding the book gently in their hands and asking someone to read to them is priceless. Watching adults reading to children, children reading to adults and children reading to children brings wonderful joy.
Today, I will be ready to share books from the boxes and baskets in my house. Some books may have ragged edges from many hands holding the book, and other books may look brand new. The brand new ones are waiting to be read.
Do you have a special place to keep books? Do you share your books with others?
Keep reading and keep sharing books,
Blessings,
Melissa Henderson