Captivating

Dear Reader by Cathy Rentzenbrink is a fascinating book about books. I was torn between devouring it and savouring it, reading it in just two sittings. For anyone who is a reader, this is the book for you. It will awaken previous books within you whilst igniting a passion for books yet to be read.

The author is a passionate reader and has always been. I recognised myself within her. She opened with one of my favourites, C.S. Lewis’ Narnia books. She talks about books that have helped and shaped her through life.

A book is never just a book. “Every book offers an invitation to open a door and find a way to another world.” As I read Dear Reader I was reminded of some of the places I have ‘visited’ in books. Books, to me, feel very ‘real’. I often find myself consumed by characters, thinking about them as if they were flesh and blood.

Reading is never a chore. Reading is “a gift that has brightened my days, expanded my horizons, and kept me company through darkest hours.” I can echo the author’s sentiments.

Whenever I hear people say that they dislike reading, I believe it is only because they have not yet discovered the book that ignites the fire in them.

There was a very powerful and moving chapter where Cathy Rentzenbrink is prison visiting to talk about books.

Dear Reader is a wonderful book. It ignited my memories of childhood favourites – Narnia, Anne of Green Gables, Mallory Towers, the Faraway Tree and more. It reminded me of books I have read as an adult. And it enabled me to make a list of books I want to buy! – Four are ordered already (War And Peace, Anna Karenina, Diana by R.F. Delderfield, and To Serve Them All My Days).

Dear Reader is a brilliant book and an absolute must have for all who enjoy reading. It certainly celebrates a love of books.

JULIA WILSON