Browsings by Michael Dirda Review

Title: Browsings: A Year of Reading, Collecting and Living With Books
Author: Michael Dirda
Age Group: Adult
Genre: Nonfiction/Essays/Literary Criticism
Series: N/A
Star Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Pegasus, through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review--thank you so much!

Normally, nonfiction is not my thing. It's not a genre I'm in love with, usually. I just prefer, most of the time, to disappear into a new world. But this book really struck a chord with me--I feel like I've known the author forever. And we would most certainly get along, due to his book addiction. I thought this book was going to be about the books Dirda has read--and it was, it was. But what really was unexpected (in a good way) was the way he spoke about all kinds of books, and reading in general. I thought, Here's a person who loves books just as much as I do. And it's pretty fantastic!

For book lovers, reading Dirda's essays--well-written, meticulously researched, delightfully funny and relatable--is like sitting with an old friend over a cup of tea and talking about one of the things they love most--literature. I really enjoyed these essays--they were so fun and passionate. I also enjoyed the way Dirda gave helpful tips in browsing, in expanding one's horizons towards something new. In fact, I'm going to be seeking out many of the books mentioned myself, once I'm able.

It was also deeply personal for me, because, really, what bookworm doesn't walk into a bookstore and wants to leave with at least three boxes, full of new information, and best of all, new stories? This book is honestly a must-have for anyone who loves literature, is passionate about books. It was a fun, exciting treat, and an intimate look into an author's life.

At times, though, it got a little hard to follow, what with the constant name-dropping of authors throughout the book, but overall, this book was just lovely. It was like sitting next to the fire with an old friend, a cup of tea, and of course, a big book! Wonderfully researched and finely written! Next on deck: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo!

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