Bookworm here, checking in.

Week #23 of the Gratitude Challenge...
When it comes to books I am kind of like a kid in a Candy Store. I'm not really into the sour ones or black licorice..but even those ones-I can say there is usually something to glean. Ok, maybe not licorice books (aka-nothing light or good or sweet in them, unless maybe its dutch) but the rest...
Sometimes I think particularly in the midst of a good story I would not even realize I was learning keys to life. That is always a sign of a good author when someone can weave in life lessons and keep you enthralled at the same time. It might be argued that some books are written purely for entertainment purposes and perhaps should have no deeper meaning at all. That's fine I suppose..but today I am thinking about ones I read from which I have learned..starting with the early days :).
I learned to read via book called Tom and Susan. This is Tom. See Tom run. Run Tom run.
The Berenstain bears taught me about sharing, friends, organizing, being prepared, and going to school..
Laura Ingalls Wilder taught me to love the "olden" days- her books kindled in me a pioneer spirit. I became familiar with the making of butter, the trapping of animals, not feeding taffy to pigs, what it was like to teach in a one room school house, scarlet fever, sod houses, early encounters with natives, the skinny little man who drank whey and grew so thin he blew away (his name escapes me), how to make maple syrup and maple syrup candy...I am not sure how many times I read her books. I first picked them up on my own in second grade and I can't remember if mom and dad had already read them all aloud to us at the point or if that came later.
The Mandie books taught me that it was exciting to have Cherokee blood, find runaways in your attic, look for buried treasure, find secret passageways and forgive, love your neighbor, and "When I am afraid I will put my trust in Thee O God".
There was a book that came into my possession that profoundly shaped me as a young girl called Falling off Cloud Nine and Other High Places. It was a devotional that I did around 12 or 13. When I was looking back in my journal I see a very distinct transition take place as I pondered the messages and read the scriptures and prayed for God to change my life.
I have read countless books that have impacted my life! In 2015 I kept a book list (here). Some I enjoyed more than others. I think all in some way taught me something. I'm so glad I learned to read. What are some of your recommendations? I already have a list of "I'd like to read at some point" books....and I always enjoy more to add to it!
Currently...I am reading:

Speaking of Jesus- Carl Medearis
Growing in Prayer- Mike Bickle
And..the books that has influenced my life the most: The Word of God. My Bible. It never gets old, it's worth being read over and over..and every time I get more insight. More wisdom. More Jesus. If you have yet to read it cover to cover..Over come Bible poverty by doing it. And at the same time..let it read you. you will never be the same. I promise.