The first thing, naturally, when one enters a scholar’s study or library, is to look at his books. One gets a notion very speedily of his tastes and the range of his pursuits by a glance round his bookshelves.
~ Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr., The Poet at the Breakfast-Table (1872)
I have noticed that when I enter a person’s home for the first time, I naturally peruse her bookshelves. If there are no bookshelves to peruse, or if the shelves are filled primarily with knick-knacks, I wonder about her…especially if it’s a homeschooling family! A home overflowing with books is often a dead giveaway that homeschoolers live there.
Mary Jo
I could use some more shelves! Mine are over flowing. I guess that’s a good thing. ; )
I always browse through other peoples bookshelves. Might find a gem in there!
A few weeks ago I had to spend the day at my mil’s house as she was recovering from surgery. I searched in vain for any sign of a book while she was napping. There wasn’t a book ANYWHERE. Sad, and very nerve wracking for a book nut, who left her book bag at home 🙁
I saw that you are a single homeschooling mom too and wanted to say “hi”.:) I have 3 daughters and have been single homeschooling for 5 years now. I will be back to check your blog often.:)