Chestnut Books: Where My Love of Reading (and Writing!) Took Root
Do you remember that feeling as a kid of discovering a book that absolutely captivated you? The kind of book that transported you to another world, made you laugh out loud, or taught you something unexpected? I was lucky enough to have a childhood filled with those moments, thanks in large part to my grandmother and her bookstore, Chestnut Books.
Nestled in the heart of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Chestnut Books was a small, cozy haven for book lovers. Its 1000 square feet were packed from floor to ceiling with books of every genre imaginable, creating a labyrinth of stories waiting to be explored. My grandmother, a passionate reader herself, had curated a collection that spanned from classic novels to children's picture books, ensuring there was something to pique the interest of every visitor.
But what truly set Chestnut Books apart was my grandmother's unique approach to encouraging young readers. Every time I finished a book, she'd simply say, "Grab your notebook and start writing." No fancy index cards, just a simple directive to put my thoughts on paper.
At first, I'll admit, I groaned a little. Another chore? But as I started to write, something amazing happened. The act of summarizing the plot, analyzing the characters, and evaluating the book's overall impact forced me to engage with the story on a deeper level. Suddenly, I wasn't just reading for enjoyment; I was thinking critically, forming opinions, and honing my writing skills.
I still remember the thrill of using the microfiche machine to search for new titles from Ingram, my grandmother's supplier. Those tiny images of book covers, scrolling past on the screen, held endless possibilities for new adventures and discoveries.
Looking back, I realize that those notebook scribbles were more than just busywork. They were the foundation of my lifelong love of reading and writing. They taught me to:
Think Critically: By analyzing what I read, I learned to question, evaluate, and form my own opinions.
Express Myself Clearly: Writing concise summaries helped me to articulate my thoughts in a clear and organized way.
Retain Information: The act of writing about a book solidified the details in my memory, making it easier to recall and discuss later.
Embrace Creativity: As I got older, my book reports evolved into more creative pieces – poems, short stories, even plays – inspired by the books I read.
Chestnut Books may be gone now, but its legacy lives on in me. Whenever I pick up a book, I'm transported back to that cozy little store and the feeling of endless possibility it held. I'm reminded of the importance of not just reading, but truly engaging with the stories we encounter.
