I always think the cover of
A book is like a door.
Which opens into someone’s house
Where I’ve not been before.
A pirate or a fairy queen
May lift the latch for me;
I always wonder, when I knock,
What welcome there will be.
And when I find a house that’s dull
I do not often stay;
But when I find one full of friends,
I’m apt to spend the day.
I never know what sort of folks
Will be within, you see;
And that’s why reading always is
So interesting to me.
Annie Fellows Johnston (1863-1931)
THE POETRY PLACE 
My passion for reading began when I was old enough to hold a book. Before I knew how to read I would just make up the words. When I learned the words I found new life. All children do not have a happy home situation and reading is an escape into wonderful places with great friends within the stories! Recognizing my love for reading my 4th grade teacher showed me this poem, had me memorize it and recite it to our school in the auditorium. This poem precisely described why I always read books. I treasure this poem and the memories. I am now 65 yrs young and my grandchildren are avid readers with whom I have shared my story and this poem. I can still recite each word.