The Quotable Book Lover

by Ben Jacobs (Editor), Nicholas A. Basbanes (Foreword by)

"Some books are unreservedly forgotten; none are unreservedly remembered."
-W. H. Auden "A room without books is like a body without a soul."
-Cicero "The proper study of mankind is books."
-Aldous Huxley This collection of more than five hundred quotations captures the wisdom and wit of the most insightful things ever said about books, spoken and written by such legendary figures Aeschylus, Ernest Hemingway, John Ruskin, Woody Allen, Thomas Jefferson, Charles Scribner, Maya Angelou, Franz Kafka, George Bernard Shaw, Jane Austen, Helen Keller, Wallace Stevens, Francis Bacon, Malcolm X, Robert Penn Warren, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Groucho Marx, William Carlos Williams, William Faulkner, John Milton, Oprah Winfrey, Robert Frost, George Orwell, W. B. Yeats. Encompassing the many facets of books and the pleasures and puzzlements they afford, The Quotable Book Lover includes chapters on writing, reading, and bookbinding, among other subjects. With its wide range of commentary, this compilation will surely entertain and enlighten bibliophiles everywhere. (5 3/4 x 6 3/4, 320 pages, illustrations) Ben Jacobs has worked in publishing for nearly ten years and has contributed to such publications as Kirkus Reviews. He lives in Brooklyn, New York, with his wife and two cats. Helena Hjalmarsson is a social worker and freelance journalist. She holds master's degrees in child development-with a dual focus on psychology and nonfiction essay writing-and social work. She lives in Connecticut.

Genres: Books About Books, Nonfiction, Reference, Writing, Inspirational

320 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book of quotes about books is a perfect inspiration for reading more books. This collection has a wide selection of quotes from ancient times to current day. Praise of books and joy of reading are two obvious topics covered. But the book also includes sections devoted to writing, libraries, publishing, censorship and literature. In addition, the last chapter is a special section, prepared by Nicholas A. Basbanes, just on collecting books. Helen Hjalmarsson wrote a thought-provoking introduction to each section.

The quote that surprised me the most was from Dwight Eisenhower. I enjoyed the quote as much for the source as the thought. He said:

"Don't join the book burners. Don't think you are going to conceal faults by concealing evidence that they ever existed. Don't be afraid to go to your library and read every book."

My favorite quote on book collecting is from Holbrook Jackson, who said:

"Book-love, I say again, lasts throughout life, it never flags or fails, but, like Beauty itself, is a joy for ever."

That is the perfect ending to the collection. I recommend this fun, interesting group of quotes on my favorite subject - books - to anyone who might be interested. I wasn't sure if I should give the book 4 stars, but I ask - why not?

[Nisah Haron · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful collection of quotes on reading, writing, libraries, literature and of course, on books! It will brighten up your day - especially, if you are an avid reader / booklover.

Among my favourite quotes are :

"The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers." - Thomas Jefferson

"Read not to contradict and confute, nor to believe and take for granted, nor to find talk and discourse, but to weigh and consider." - Francis Bacon

"My library, was dukedom large enough." - William Shakespeare, The Tempest.

"A great library cannot be constructed - it is the growth of ages." - John Hill Burton, The Book-Hunter

[Electra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quotes were sometimes repeated across sections of the book and some quotes were not really quotes, rather paragraphs taken from the writings of notable people, which is not the same thing...

[Mitch · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love books, admittedly. I thought I'd like a book of quotes about them too....and I did, somewhat.

There were some interesting viewpoints here and there, but a lot of the quotes were pretty forgettable overall.

It wasn't as bad as this quote, however...

"I'm willing even to scrape at a dunghill, if I may find a jewel at the bottom." Rev. Jeremy Belnap

Book lovers out there may well find this volume more enjoyable than I did- they are a varied lot so I think I'd recommend it to them just to see which quotes rang truest to them.

[Angel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another of my little favorites. It is a quotation of books about books and reading. From quotes about libraries to quotes about publishing and collectors, it features a nice selection. Feel free to read it through, or just browse here and there. For me, it is a book I pick up every so often and browse again and again. If you like books and stuff about books, this is a nice little book to have.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amusing, entertaining, and containing a great variety of quotations, some of which I really wish I could use for social media images, but probably shouldn't.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: The Quotable Book Lover edited by Ben Jacobs

In "The Quotable Book Lover," editor Ben Jacobs has curated a delightful collection of quotes that celebrates the love of books in all its forms. Spanning from ancient wisdom to contemporary musings, this anthology encapsulates the profound impact that literature, writing, and the act of reading have on our lives. With contributions from notable figures such as Woody Allen and foreword by Nicholas A. Basbanes, this collection offers both inspiration and reflection on the multifaceted relationship between readers and books.

Jacobs structures the book thematically, exploring a range of topics that include not only the intrinsic joy of reading but also critical issues such as censorship, the art of writing, and the significance of libraries. Each section is introduced by Helen Hjalmarsson, whose thoughtful insights set the stage for the myriad voices that follow. Her introductions elevate the anthology, inviting readers to engage with the material on a deeper level by providing context and encouraging contemplation about the power of words.

The quotes included in this compendium are carefully selected, demonstrating the enduring nature of the book's central themes. From ancient philosophers to modern-day authors, the diverse array of voices adds richness to the discourse on reading and literature. Notable quotes, such as Dwight Eisenhower’s cautionary words against censorship, resonate with relevance in today’s world, highlighting the ongoing struggle for intellectual freedom. Holbrook Jackson's reflections on the lasting joy of book-love serve as a reminder of the personal connections forged through reading, emphasizing how literature can shape our identities and experiences.

One particularly compelling feature of the anthology is its special section on book collecting, penned by Nicholas A. Basbanes, a revered figure in the bibliophile community. This section offers practical insights and anecdotes that appeal to both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. Basbanes illuminates the joys of curating a personal library, exploring how each book can serve as a vessel of memory and significance. His passion for literature and the tangible artifacts of reading adds a layer of depth that will resonate with those who view books not merely as texts, but as cherished companions.

While "The Quotable Book Lover" excels in showcasing the joy and value of reading, it also serves as a gentle nudge to those who may not prioritize literature in their lives. The compilation of quotes inspires a renewed appreciation for books, fostering a desire to dive deeper into the written word. Each quote embodies the timeless belief that books are gateways to knowledge, imagination, and connection, encouraging readers to explore new genres, authors, and ideas.

However, some readers may find that the anthology's format—primarily composed of quotes—lacks the narrative depth found in traditional essays or longer works. While the curated quotes are undeniably impactful, those seeking a more extensive exploration of the themes might desire additional context or analysis. Nonetheless, the compilation succeeds in its objective of celebrating the love of books and inspiring readers to embrace their literary passions.

In conclusion, "The Quotable Book Lover" edited by Ben Jacobs is a beautifully assembled collection that honors the transformative power of literature. With its wide-ranging themes, thoughtful introductions, and notable contributions, this anthology serves as an essential companion for book lovers of all ages. It is a treasure trove of inspiration that not only celebrates the written word but also encourages readers to continue their journey through the enchanting world of books. Whether you are a lifelong bibliophile or a casual reader, this compendium will enrich your appreciation for literature and motivate you to immerse yourself in the joy of reading.

[Sarah Dunmire · Rating 3 out of 5]

The formatting of the book was pretty blah. I feel like the presentation could have been nicer. The categories of quotes made sense. I don’t know much about publishing, so that was over my head. A lot of quotes on writing. More than reading.

The lessons taught in great books are misleading. The commerce in life is rarely so simple and never so just. —Anita Brookner
I devoured books like a person taking vitamins, afraid that otherwise I would remain this gelatinous narcissist, with no possibility of ever becoming thoughtful, of ever being taken seriously. —Anne Lamott
There are many people—happy people, it usually appears—whose thoughts at Christmas always turn to books. The notion of a Christmas tree with no books under it is repugnant and unnatural to them. —Robertson Davies
Novel, n. A short story padded. —Ambrose Bierce
There is a certain kind of child who awakens from a book as from an abyssal sleep, swimming heavily up through layers of consciousness toward a reality that seems less real than the dream state that has been left behind. I was such a child. —Anne Fadiman
I write because I want more than one life; I insist on a wider selection. It’s greed plain and simple. When my characters join the circus, I’m joining the circus. Although I’m happily married, I spent a great deal of time mentally living with incompatible husbands. —Anne Tyler
I think I may boast myself to be, with all possible vanity, the most unlearned and uninformed female whoever dared to be an authoress. —Jane Austen
If you are in difficulties with a book, try the element of surprise: attack it at an hour when it isn’t expecting it. —HG Wells
Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand. —George Orwell
I soothe my conscience now with the thought that it is better for hard words to be on paper than that Mummy should carry them in her heart. —Anne Frank
The pen is mightier than the sword. —Edward George Bulwer-Lytton
Every great man nowadays has his disciples, and it is always Judas who writes the biography. —Oscar Wilde
The unread story is not a story; it is little black marks on wood pulp. The reader, reading it, makes it live: a live thing, a story. —Ursula K. Le Guin
You may perhaps be brought to acknowledge that it is very well worthwhile to be tormented for two or three years of one’s life, for the sake of being able to read all the rest of it. —Jane Austen
Medicine for the soul—Inscription over the door at the Library of Thebes.
I ransack public libraries and find them full of sunken treasure. —Virginia Woolf
My library was dukedom large enough. —William Shakespeare
Literature is news that STAYS news. —Ezra Pound
A truly great book should be read in youth, again in maturity, and once more in old age, as a fine building should be seen by morning light, at noon, and by moonlight. —Robertson Davies
O my darling books! A day will come when you will be laid out on the sales room table, and others will buy and possess you—persons, perhaps, less worthy of you than your old master. Yet how dear to me are they all! Have I not chosen them, one by one, gathered them in with the sweat of my brow? I do love you all! —Silvestre de Sacy

[Theresa F. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a slow read for me because I kept coming across appealing quotes and then stopping my reading to look for them in the Goodreads database, checking to see if I could add them to my Favorites list. In the process, I discovered that some of the quotes in the book may not be entirely accurate. There was one quote in particular, attributed to Michel de Montaigne, where the version in the Goodreads database uses much more archaic language than what is printed in The Quotable Book Lover. Whatever source material the book's editors consulted used different wording that seemed updated for modern audiences. And as a result, the quote is nearly unrecognizable when compared to the version on Goodreads. Because of this discrepancy, and others like it in the text, I would not recommend using The Quotable Book Lover as a primary reference source. I would also strongly advise checking additional sources in situations where accuracy is important.
Another thing I feel I should mention is that this book is broken up into sections by topic, and a few of the quotes actually appear more than once, but in separate sections.
Despite its flaws, I did enjoy this compilation overall.
Did I like it? Yes.
Would I reread it? Possibly, but not in its entirety.
Would I recommend it? For the most part.

[Deb Montague · Rating 3 out of 5]

Collected quotations books are always fun to peruse. You never know what they have collected under the guise of the subject.

The collected quotations are innocuous and not, necessarily designed to make you think. This is the kind of book a book lover will have in their library and will refer to occasionally when they need something witty. Some quotes didn't age well, but that's to be expected in a collection such as this.

This is an average book. Nothing earth-shattering about it. It won't take you long to read it.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Books, wrote Jonathan Swift, are the children of the brain.

Anne Lamont “devoured books like candy.” They were a life-changing route from narcissism to thoughtfulness.

For Oprah. books were the path to personal freedom, the possibility that life happened beyond their farm in Mississippi.

This book eases us into a world where, as Twain put it, the difference between then almost-right word and the right work is akin to the gulf between the lightning bug and lightning.

A more delightful psych-up for a real in reading I cannot imagine, though i broke it up into small parts in infkhs

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

an interesting collection

There are many of the standard book quotes here, but quite a few missing, or perhaps is was post print? Where is Neil Gaiman or Terry Pratchett on their love of books and libraries to name just two. I loved seeing Robertson Davies a couple of times, but I have so many ‘better’ quotes from him. Ditto Atwood! Books are personal of course, and book lovers and writers are an interesting quirky bunch. It is an enjoyable read.

[Liz Banks · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice reference book if you want literary quotes. It is divided into chapters on: In praise of books, on writing, autobiography and biography, reading, libraries, literacy, censorship and the destruction of books, publishing and publishers, literature, and collecting books. I did enjoy it and will probably use it.

[Lindsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

20 years late.

I enjoyed the quotes. I chuckled at a few more attempt to remember others.

Introduction is no longer valid. In the 2000s we were worried about the physical book becoming extinct. I'm hoping there are new versions of this book out there and not just in meme form.

Worth a glance but I would not own.

[Candice Lovekamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great collection of quotes about books, censorship, libraries, and more from Toni, Morrison, Virginia Woolf, George Orwell, Ernest Hemingway, Jane Austin, Malcolm X, Anne Frank, Oscar Wilde, Mark Twain, Winston Churchill, Maya Angelou, Helen Keller, H.G. Wells, and many others.

[Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute collection of bookish quotes. I definitely jotted some down in my quote book!

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books like this

This did not disappoint

Loved it

[Wilbur · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun. An enjoyable little book.

[Farida · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book lovers and quote lovers will like this one

[Karen-Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have been collecting quotes on books my entire life. I enjoyed this one except it didn't have my favourite of all time. Now I have to go and dig out the quote from my personal list.

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5* Borrowed this book from the library and was able to renew it because I was just reading a few pages before bed each night. A nice addition to my night table. 3.5*

[John Fetzer · Rating 2 out of 5]

A very fastcread because there is not much to it. Luckily, I got it for only 2 bucks from a used book store when I needed something to kill time.

[Barbara Mahoney · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love quotes and you love books, you'll love this little gem of a book!