The Reading of Books - Softcover

Jackson, Holbrook

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0252070410 ISBN 13: 9780252070419

Publisher: University of Illinois Press, 2001

Synopsis

"In the third of his delectable books on books, Holbrook Jackson focuses on the relationship between author and reader, describing reading as "the art of extracting essences from books for our own, not the author's benefit". Books are to be considered not solely as works of art but as one of the means of the art of living. Defining "bookmanship" as the art of adjusting literature to life, Jackson describes reading as a courtship ending in a collaboration. Attentive readers enter into a creative process with their books, integrating the writer's aesthetic observations and designs into their own experiences. Through this exquisite synthesis, books give pleasure by deepening and refining readers' sensibilities and extending the boundaries of their lives. As Jackson says, reading is not a duty, and if it is not a pleasure it is a waste of time. Entertaining as well as instructive, his "books on books" provide inveterate readers with all things needful: vindication, inspiration, cogitation, and delectation."

About this title

From Library Journal:

A British "bookman," Jackson (1874-1948) here offers historical and cultural paeans to the book and to reading. The love of books is something nearly universal, though books have been reviled by certain cultures. Mostly, Jackson was a book nut who shared his love for the printed word, which, of course, includes libraries. These volumes were originally published in 1950, 1932, and 1947, respectively.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review:

"The Reading of Books is a library in itself and will be a constant source of pleasure to all who give themselves the satisfaction of owning a copy." -- E. M. Sowerby, Christian Science Monitor "Mr. Jackson's cross-lights and unexpected illuminations are fascinating... among all his good things from other writers, his own good things should not be overlooked." -- Times Literary Supplement

About this edition

• Publisher: University of Illinois Press
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 0252070410
• ISBN 13: 9780252070419
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 296