Hardcover books were quite expensive, but the nature books were more often than not, hardcover. I have to say that from my perspective, the pictures were quite incredible. I treasured each book I got and my brothers and I swapped titles until we had read them all. We were addicted to the written word.

For a boy scout project, years ago, my son built one of the Little Free Library book boxes for a project. There were guidelines on how to find a location and identify a volunteer, also called a steward, that is basically a caretaker of the box. For me, it was satisfying to see how he wanted to share his love of reading and books, while also making different books available. That was the fun part. Making it all work. While many kids today get their reading on the internet, I can't help but think going to a library instills a love for reading, and develops the habit of reading, fostering brain development and even early math skills. They have family activities, reading time, and all sorts of activities to challenge your children.

All I have are my words, armed in my mind, written in pen, stand by stand. Oh, yes. Still by hand. It has a different feel. Altered not by keys, backspace, and delete, I write, erase, tear it to pieces and start all over again. And again.

These are the hills, these are the woods,
These are my starry solitudes;
And there the river by whose brink
The roaring lions come to drink.

I see the others far away
As if in firelit camp they lay,
And I, like to an Indian scout,
Around their party prowled about.

So, when my nurse comes in for me,
Home I return across the sea,
And go to bed with backward looks
At my dear land of Story-books …