I have a serious problem, a problem I realize is getting out of control. You see, I am addicted to collecting books. I love the way bookstores smell when you first walk in (too bad they couldn’t bottle that up) and when you see the books displayed so beautifully, you smile because you know, that odds are, you’re going to go home with one.
Books have an incredible power over me. They can convince me it is totally possible to redecorate my house and cook a 7 course meal in three hours before my party starts. They can educate me with facts so that one day, I may finally win a game of Trivial Pursuit. And, a book can convince me that the old house, next street over, with the overgrown ivy and no signs of life, is either haunted or the owner is a serial killer.
To some of you, you may think that collecting books is no big deal. But, it is when I haven’t read over half of them. They just sit there, on shelves, on an ottoman or side table, waiting for attention. Occasionally, they’ll be dusted off because company is coming over. And once every few years, I’ll donate a box or two because I fear of becoming a hoarder. I can just see the headlines now, “Strange Odor Led Authorities To The Body Of A Woman Found Dead Under A Mound Of Books.” Ugh!
This morning, I decided to have a relaxing day. Get comfy on the couch and enjoy a good book with a cup of coffee. As I stared at the mass collection, this little gem popped out at me.
Boneyards: Detroit Under Ground by Richard Bak.
How in the world could I have forgotten about this book? I remember it like it was yesterday when I purchased it. I was so excited to read it and share it with my friends. What happened? Why didn't I read it? Why didn't I share it with others? I must admit I started to feel guilty as if I had neglected a child.
I can tell you that if you like odd, out of the norm, books, then this one is for you! It is a combination of Detroit’s history, beautiful pictures of cemeteries, and a look at death as a culture. I found this book at The Detroit Mercantile Co. but it's also available on Amazon. I love this book and totally recommend it! As a matter of fact, I'm going to put this aside so I can use it for a future adventure.
And, if you ever find yourself in an awkward, silent moment at a cocktail party, here’s a fun fact from another neglected book on my shelf. According to Flying By The Seat Of Your Pants: Surprising Origins of Everyday Expressions (2011), many people believe Dr. Joseph Ignace Guillotin invented the guillotine, however, this is false. Even though similar machines have been around for over a thousand years, it was actually Dr. Antoine Louis, who designed the blueprint for the models that were used during the French Revolution and were referred to as “louisons” or “louisettes”. Eventually, they became known as “guillotines” and Dr. Guillotin almost became one of its victims. And, because Dr. Guillotin’s family wasn’t too keen on the idea of being associated with the machine, they ended up changing their last name (no surprise there).
Sending you lots of positive energy and love.
All the best,
Mallie