Have you read...

So I got a performance review at work last week.

My boss has noticed how good I am at recommending books to patrons. Not only did she notice when she's there, but apparently, patrons have been coming in raving about the books I suggested for them.

My boss said, 'Not all my staff does this, but you read really widely, and I think that's a big reason why you're able to select the right book.'

This felt good for two main reasons.

1. It's nice to be recognized for something positive that you care about. It doesn't always happen in a job. Too often, the boss expects you to go above and beyond, and doesn't acknowledge when you do something well.

2. The main reason this felt great - I really care about recommending books. I CARE about finding the perfect fit between a patron and a book. I want you to LOVE the book I suggest you try. Sometimes it isn't even as grandiose as finding a book for you that becomes a literary revelation, bumping one of your all time favourites off the list.

Here's how I see it. Books can be an adventure or an escape.

Maybe I'm just finding a book for someone who desperately needs an hour or two escape from their daily lives. To be able to provide a book that takes them away from a bad situation for even a short amount of time... I get emotional thinking about it. Because that's happened.

The best days at work are the ones where people give me free rein about book suggestions. I feel so light, and happy. Excited.

Recently on twitter, a friend suggested that I start a book review blog, since I love recommending books so much.

While I can't see that happening, I think maybe I'll start recommending a book here and there. I hope you don't mind me raving about books I love from time to time.

I hope you'll even consider reading a few of them, if one catches your eye.