You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend. – Paul Sweeney

Great writers have a special giftedness, perhaps innate, yet practiced and carefully polished ability to draw the reader into a well-written tale. Delighting in the author’s literary artistry, the fully engaged reader feels compelled to stay, to read, to enjoy, to become immersed to the point where they feel as though they are actually a part of the story.

In these moments, the reader becomes a silent and unseen character, unnoticed by those who are living out their lives inside the imaginary world set forth in the carefully crafted pages.

Well-written books, especially the classics provide this opportunity to the reader. At some point in the past, the author fulfilled his or her part, offering an opportunity for the reader to learn and grow, to be enriched and challenged, or simply to temporarily live within the pages as a brief interlude from the issues and challenges of reality.

Set aside some time, find a great book, and become the silent and unseen character. The experience will enrich your life!

© Jeffery J. Michaels / Plain English Publications 2024
(Quotations allowed with attribution to this blog)