Books have always a secret influence on the understanding; we
cannot at pleasure obliterate ideas: he that reads books read more

Books have always a secret influence on the understanding; we
cannot at pleasure obliterate ideas: he that reads books of
science, though without any desire fixed of improvement, will
grow more knowing; he that entertains himself with moral or
religious treatises, will imperceptibly advance in goodness; the
ideas which are often offered to the mind, will at last find a
lucky moment when it is disposed to receive them.

We read to know we are not alone.

We read to know we are not alone.

I like to be beholden to the great metropolitan English speech,
the sea which receives tributaries from every region read more

I like to be beholden to the great metropolitan English speech,
the sea which receives tributaries from every region under
heaven. I should as soon think of swimming across the Charles
river when I wish to go to Boston, as of reading all my books in
originals, when I have them rendered for me in my mother tongue.

What is twice read is commonly better remembered that what is
transcribed.

What is twice read is commonly better remembered that what is
transcribed.

A person who won't read has no advantage over one who can't read.

A person who won't read has no advantage over one who can't read.

To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.

To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.

The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I
had gained a read more

The first time I read an excellent book, it is to me just as if I
had gained a new friend. When I read a book over I have perused
before, it resembles the meeting with an old one.

The mind, relaxing into needful sport,
Should turn to writers of an abler sort,
Whose wit well read more

The mind, relaxing into needful sport,
Should turn to writers of an abler sort,
Whose wit well managed, and whose classic style,
Give truth a lustre, and make wisdom smile.

Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an
exact man.

Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an
exact man.