About a year ago a wonderful friend of mine recommended this amazing series. I was intrigued by her description, of a ten volume set of books filled with the best children's literature of all time. I mean who wouldn't want that...right?!So, I started doing my research to find out even more. I was also curious how hard it was going to be to purchase a set of books published in 1939. I kept freaking out a bit because, it just seemed to good to be true. Could there really be a set of books with some of the best literature in it? Its been almost a year now, and after a lot of searching I FINALLY received my own complete 10 volume Journeys Through Bookland set...and I think I'm in LOVE!! Not only are they BEAUTIFUL, but the stories, poems, and illustrations within the books are fantastic.
As I unpacked each book tonight I began to have an inkling of the deep connection and love Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and other great men must have felt about their precious libraries. I gently rubbed my hand across the red leather covers as I took each volume out of their packaging. I was in awe at the intricate designs, and craftsmanship that went into each book.
The house was quiet as I unpacked my box. All the kids were in bed and asleep. For some reason I stopped and looked at my little stack of books. I reflected on the intentional life I am choosing to live. I thought about all the things I am now so willing to give up. Things that are distractions, and will get in the way of my spiritual growth, educational goals, and family vision are easy to recognize and say no to now. I realized how important this shift has been to my happiness, my success as a mother, and my marriage.
I looked back to my stack of red leather books, and smiled. The thought of reading volume one in bed made me smile. I had thought I knew what made me happy a few years ago, and could never understand why it didn't last. I picked up my books and headed off to my room...thankful for the path I am on and the journey that lies a head.
10 comments:
Oh! They makes me excited for you! I am going to have to chat with you about these books!! Thanks for the inspirational post. :)
I have never heard of these ones! They sound great! Thanks for sharing! I will have to look them up.
Nicholeen Peck
I'm definitely going to look for these...thanks!
If anyone is interested I have the complete 1939 10 vol set. These books are great and in great condition!
It's been a while since this post, BUT, mmk988, do you still have these for sale? :)
Wow! As a matter of fact I do! I will have to check with my mother as to how much she may want! If you have an offer in mind throw it out there and I will let her know!
Is the 1939 the red embossed version? I would be willing to pay $75 for them, not sure what she wants for them... I'd like to see a few pics if they are in good condition/spines tight/etc! :)
Yes they are the red embossed version. I will take a few pics of them this weekend. Is there an email addy I can send them to? Have a great weekend!
My email is theodidact@gmail.com. Thanks!
I have a 1939 print edition that were passed down from my grandparents in the late 1950s. They were read by my mother at bedtime sometimes and then by each of my brothers and sisters as we grew up in the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
I still love picking the Journeys Through Bookland books up once in awhile to read a story or two and to look at the artwork and illustrations which always fascinated me as a child. If you are an eBook user (iPad, Nook, Android, etc., The Gutenberg Project has 8 of the 10 illustrated sets for free in each of the formats for the devices listed. Unfortunately, Volumes 1 and 9 are missing from their offerings. Probably still al work in progress. It is nice to see others who enjoy the books as well! -- GRK_Astronomer
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