A half a dozen books!! That's right--SIX wonderful books have made it cross-country. And it seems like these books have had a rough time of it; I opened my mailbox to a cellophane wrapped parcel, through which I could see a torn and tattered package. Not sure what happened, but the books are in perfect reading condition!

I was so happy to find that some of the enclosed titles are familiar and some are new! One of my absolute favorite books, Brave New World, will be making it to my classroom library. As we just finished Fahrenheit 451, hopefully I can pass along this dystopian classic to my kids! Of Mice and Men was the first novel I ever taught, and it holds a rather special place in my heart. Having my own copy (at last!) is a treat. Another enclosed classic,Catch 22, is one book I have not read in a loooong time (probably since my own high school years), so I will have to revisit this one. I know it's beloved by many a reader.

I have not read Tracks by Louise Erdrich (I also read a title by her in college and enjoyed it immensely, though!) or A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving. Both will be excellent summer reading!!

And a final note on On the Road by Jack Kerouac--I came incredibly close to buying this book while I was out collecting books for my own giftee, and I am so glad my stinginess won out that day. I ADORE On the Road. As a person who was quite sheltered in my young life, and who has not had much opportunity to travel, this book captures the restless, roving adventurer inside me. I will also be passing this read onto my significant other who has ventured on countless road trips in his young life. What a treasure to now own!

So, thank-you megarea!! You have perfectly catered to both my personal and classroom tastes with enormous generosity.