Books From the Library
When I was in grade school we didn’t have a school library but we would walk to the public library once a week and check out books. One day I wanted to get a book about Helen Keller from the young-adult section. The teacher told me I couldn’t because it was too hard for me to read. The librarian, a wonderful woman I love to this day, told her she should let me, but the teacher wouldn’t. She got me a book about Helen Keller from the kids’ section. She didn’t want me to be discouraged.
When I got home I showed my mom the books I had gotten and told her I wanted the big book but the teacher had said it was too hard for me. She stopped in the middle of cooking dinner and drove me back to the library.
I tried reading the book but it was too hard for me. I don’t remember being traumatized by this. I just read bits and pieces and returned it to the library when it was due.
I’m really glad my mom did that. I learned a lot more than the story of Helen Keller that day. I think that has influenced my decision to allow my children to check out any book that they want when I take them to the library. I’ve always enjoyed seeing what catches their interest from week to week.
This week I was in for a bit of a surprise. My oldest came walking out of the book stacks with this book. The Complete Idiots Guide to Caring for Aging Parents. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I should be offended or thankful that she cares. I think I’ll go with thankful.
4 Responses to “Books From the Library”
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They’re not checking out the adult diaper section when you take them to the drug store, are they?
God bless your mom. I think that’s pretty cool. My Zane is going through a similar reading phase–he picks books way over his head because he doesn’t realize he not supposed to be able to read them. At the same time, he’s yet to become discouraged as he stumbles over the large words.
No. So far so good on that. The book covers more how to keep your parents active and common illness. There’s also a section on medicare and managing expenses and estates.
My mom is pretty cool. I don’t know how she did it since she worked full time. But we turned out pretty good. I think it’s great he wants to read hard books. He’s a boy that’s not afraid of a challenge. That’ll take him far in this world.
Books are for burning. I only let my kids look at pictures (after I approve them).
As always sir, you are right. When does that DadCentric book come out?