Thankful for the Book Community

Keeping it brief this week since National Novel Writing Month's writing load requires my full attention!

I woke up on Wednesday morning with a raw election hangover and a full-fledged, roaring flame desire to get up and start writing. And if I thought the words would flow quickly onto the page as soon as I sat down, I was wrong. For a long while, I just had to sit in front of my computer, drink my coffee, and wait for inspiration to slog through the brain fog. But when the words finally started, they felt true, like a reclamation of sorts. 

As a writer currently in a red state, I see that the causes and organizations that have desperately needed community support in the last couple of years are in even more critical need. Every grassroots effort must be doubled down on, and every available hand must be extended. One of these organizations is Annie’s Foundation, which distributes free copies of banned and challenged books for readers of all ages.

Being a part of the book community—writing, reading, sharing, and buying books—makes me thankful for the book community. Their value cannot be overstated, as indie bookstores and libraries are often on the frontlines, protecting the freedom of storytelling and sharing ideas. They are hubs of restorative hope, connection, and energy. They are welcoming to all people.

Books are lifelines to the human experience. Information is both solace and the foundation for our fortresses.