I don’t know what it is about a good fantasy book that gives me all the feels. I don’t mean a Game of Thrones-type book. I’m more into The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings. Currently, I’m reading The Wind and the Willows. And by reading, I mean with an actual book with actual pages that you turn with actual hands with actual fingers.

What is is about elves and hobbits and dwarves that appeals to me? Why am I drawn to talking rats and moles? Is it wrong that I want to live at Bag End with Bilbo and Frodo Baggins? I’d even put in my fair share of washing dishes and setting the table.

I think maybe these days we all need an escape from reality. We need somewhere to go where the headlines aren’t all death and doom. Whenever it’s a cold and rainy day, there’s nothing better than to read about someone traipsing through a meadow on a bright sunny afternoon. Or to imagine the possibility of stumbling on to a door that leads straight out of this world into Middle Earth or Narnia.

For me, there’s always the joy of revisiting a classic along with familiar characters and locations. It’s comforting when you remember what’s coming next and can’t wait to get to that part.

I’m always looking for recommendations, so if you can think of any send them my way by emailing them to gmendel72@icloud.com. May you always find a comfy chair and a good book to keep you company on those cold wintry nights.