The Edward R. Hamilton Super Bargain Book catalog (“All Items in This Catalog Are $3.95 or Less!”) just arrived in the mail. My heart pounds, I start going through it, checking books to order. I have a lot to do today, new courses to work on, editing a new book, etc. Plus I have no more space in any of the bookcases which now cover most of the walls in my house. But like a true addict, I rationalize my behavior. Next week is my birthday and if it’s your birthday you get to treat yourself with a whole box full of books. And the more books you order from Mr. Hamilton, the more money you’ll save because no matter how big the order the postage and handling in this catalog remains the same: $3.50. And it’s important to buy books because you’re supporting your community of writers. (If all this makes perfect sense to you, order the super bargain catalog online or write to: Edward R. Hamilton, Bookseller, Falls Village, CT 06031-5000).  And while we’re on the subject of delicious book bargains, you should also check out the Daedelus Books Catalog ….

Since I’m teaching a course called “Writing The Healing Story” this quarter I further rationalize by telling myself the 14 memoirs I just checked off are vital for my class. (The Fifth Book of Peace, by Maxine Hong Kingston, Scribbling the Cat, Father Joe etc.)These are tools of the trade. And I hope you feel this way about your books too. What are you reading this week? Please comment below or send us the title by e-mail. StuartAndCharlotte@yahoo.com

To Do: Revisit The Best Assignment You’ll Ever Get