An Introduction

For years family and friends have come to me for reading suggestions.  Depending on the person, and the assumed expectations, I either derive pleasure or feel a sense dread before responding. 

When a fellow English teacher asks for ideas, I fret whether or not my suggestion is “high brow” enough.  There is always a pathetic voice in the back of my head questioning “do they think I am dumb for thinking this is a worthwhile book?”  Then I remember that as a teacher of prose, something can be learned from every book we encounter, good or bad. 

When my friends and family members who are not fortunate enough to work in education ask for a recommendation, the pressure lessens—only a little.  I still feel as though the books I tout are a direct representation of me.  Luckily, they tend to enjoy my suggestions, and if not, I can deal with a little good-natured ribbing.

Enough rambling.  The point of my new blog is to discover propitious prose and spread the word.  I hope you enjoy!