Books Bring People Together

One of my proudest elementary school moments was when I received a gold star on my name on the classroom wall for reading over 100 books during the school year. That year, I’d completed my yearly reread of Harry Potter and Ella Enchanted, but I’d also tackled Gone with the Wind and Jane Eyre.

I grew up as a kid who loved books. And I have quite a few happy memories connected to them. So, in the holiday spirit, while we’re all reminiscing on the good times we’ve shared with our family and friends (or figuring what wasn’t so great while creating our New Year’s resolutions), I’d like to share some of my favorite book-related memories.

When I was a child, my mom would take my siblings and me to Barnes & Noble. We’d sit in the children’s section and scan through our favorite books; we’d race up and down the escalators; we’d beg our mom to buy us hot chocolates at the café. In my view, this is the epitome of a booklover’s childhood. I still feel a thrill of joy whenever I enter a bookstore.

Just before midnight on July 21, 2007, I stood in line with my father and sister in front of that very same Barnes & Noble and waited to buy the last Harry Potter book. We chatted with other fans who were waiting, admiring their costumes and discussing our theories for how the story would end. I have a vivid memory of a group of men driving by in a car and throwing out a sheets of paper covered in spoilers for the last book. In a sudden rush of coordination and distress, the waiting crowd moved as one to pick up every last paper and throw it hastily in a trash can, ensuring that no unfortunate person would unknowingly pick up the paper and have the book spoiled. It was one of the best nights of my life.

A few weeks ago, I was reading on the subway on my way to work. My book (In the Woods by Tana French) was a murder mystery and had just reached a particularly tense moment. I felt my heart beating uncontrollably, my palms sweating, and a knot forming in the pit of my stomach. I had to close the book and take a few deep breaths in the middle of my morning commute. I cannot remember the last time a book not only emotionally, but also physically affected me to that extent.

I’m sure any bibliophile could rattle off a quick list of their own similar favorite book-related memories. I think that in itself is the magic of literature. It brings together families and strangers. It leaves us raw and emotional; it comforts us. It tests our limits.

So this holiday season, reread one of your favorite books (or pick up a new one), debate your favorite characters with your family and friends, or buy your favorite bibliophile a new book (for ideas for what to get your favorite writer or reader, check out Emily’s blog post). Let books bring you together.