q&a, part two

My lifelong love for books began, I think, with Frances Hodgson Burnett's magical and utterly charming novel A Little Princess.

I had received the book as a birthday present-- and let me tell you, I was not happy about receiving a book! for a present! {ugh} ...until I started reading, and then I was captivated. I wanted to be Sara, not only for her riches, but also for her goodness and strength and spirit and imagination. The moral of the story -- that being a princess is not about privilege and fortune, but rather about how one chooses to respond to difficult situations and life's unexpected turns -- is inspiring, and even as adult, a point I would do well to remember.

And now a puppy with a tiara (via here).

I am grateful for having received that book for my birthday, as it instilled in me a respect and appreciation for the written word. Many children are not so lucky and do not have access to books. First Book addresses this barrier to literacy by providing new books and educational resources to children in need. This year, First Book is pledging to donate 50,000 new books to the state that receives the most votes in their "What Book Got You Hooked?" Campaign. So, head on over to First Book's website to vote, and while you're there, be sure to let them know:

"What book got you hooked?"
{I'd like to know, too, if you don't mind sharing your story.}

Vote now. Vote often. Vote Kentucky ;).

{Okay, you don't really have to vote for Kentucky. But you do have to vote before midnight ET on September 30, 2009.}