Give Canadian books for Christmas
Give Canadian books for Christmas. A novel idea some might say, but I’ve been giving Canadian books as gifts since I immigrated to the country in 1971.
Most of my family lives in the USA. What’s at the top of their Christmas wish list each year? Books by Canadian authors. And chocolate, but that’s another story.
This year, relatives ranging in age from 13 to 77 will be getting Canadian books from this household (and not just ones written by me or my partner).
I come from a long line of readers. Being read a bed time story was a favourite part of my early family routine. I remember the excitement of finally being able to read books on my own. And the naughty thrill of draping a towel over my bedside lamp so I could do so late into the night.
Of course, Mom saw the light under the door. But instead of giving me heck, she said it was okay to read but not to start a fire.
Turns out reading in bed is a family tradition. My relatives tend to travel in herds. In the past, five or more have come to visit at once. And it doesn’t matter if they sleep on the pseudo-Murphy bed in the sunroom, on the futon in the basement, on the couch or on a cot, every one of them reads before they go to sleep. Finding enough bedside lights is more of an issue than rounding up bedding and pillows.
Personally, I can’t think of a better way to spend a winter evening than cuddled up with a book by a Canadian author. So, if it isn’t already part of your holiday ritual, consider giving Canadian books as gifts this Christmas.
E‑book or paper book, which do you prefer?
In my “book,” anything that makes reading easier and accessible to more people is a good thing. E‑books and e‑readers are bringing a whole new dimension to the reading experience and who can argue with that?
An amazing feature is being able to read an e‑book in the dark. You can also adjust the size of the text, highlight passages and look up the meaning of words. Best of all, you have access to tons of books instantly and can carry them all on one portable device.
Yep, e‑books are definitely made for travelling. The next time I take a trip to a foreign country, I’ll consider carrying my reading material on an e‑reader. Just think how much more room I’ll have to pack clothes and shoes if I do away with my usual six pack of pocket books!
But in my heart of hearts I’ll always love paper books. To begin with, I grew up with them, so they’re familiar and comfortable. I love holding a book in my hands and turning the page to find out what happens next.
Besides, paper books are incredibly versatile. As decorating accessories they add colour and intellectual cachet to your shelves. They can also serve as door props, as well as do double-duty as storage areas for postcards from exotic lands and interesting leaves found on walks.
If you’re an author you can discretely place books you’ve written around the house for visitors to “discover.” And signed copies make great last minute gifts.
Paper books are forgiving too. They’re usually still readable even after being splashed with red wine or smeared with chocolate. Even a dunk in the bathtub doesn’t have to spell the end.
But most of all, I like reading what other people have written on a book’s flyleaf. A hard cover book I picked up at a garage sale was inscribed: “To Edna, with love on our first Christmas together. From your Jack. December 1932.”
So e‑books get my vote when it comes to convenience. But if you’re looking for character, paper books are the way to go. If you have any doubts, check out Lane Smith’s one minute video, It’s A Book.