SKU: 14449546

An Open Book: Chapters from a Reader's Life

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An Open Book: Chapters from a Reader's Life"All that kid wants to do is stick his nose in a book," Michael Dirda's steelworker father used to complain, worried about his son's passion for reading. In "An Open Book," one of the most delightful memoirs to emerge in years, the acclaimed literary journalist Michael Dirda re creates his boyhood in rust belt Ohio, first in the working class town of Lorain, then at Oberlin College. In addition to his colorful family and friends, "An Open Book" also

"All that kid wants to do is stick his nose in a book," Michael Dirda's steelworker father used to complain, worried about his son's passion for reading. In "An Open Book," one of the most delightful memoirs to emerge in years, the acclaimed literary journalist Michael Dirda re-creates his boyhood in rust-belt Ohio, first in the working-class town of Lorain, then at Oberlin College. In addition to his colorful family and friends, "An Open Book" also features the great writers and fictional characters who fueled Dirda's imagination: from Green Lantern to Sherlock Holmes, from Candy to Proust. The result is an affectionate homage to small-town America summer jobs, school fights, sweepstakes contests, and first dates as well as a paean to what could arguably be called the last great age of reading. "Dirda is a superb literary essayist." Harold Bloom "Michael Dirda's memoir no surprise to me is so good that I went up to the attic meaning to send him one of my antique Big Little books as a salute to excellence...A great job. I'll be buying "An Open Book" for my children and grandchildren." Russell Baker, author of "Growing Up" "Here, in "An Open Book," is the show and tell of a wonderful American story, everything coming together in the immemorial dance of literature and memory, of history and gossip, and of the deeply felt, bittersweet story (his own) of a young life. Read it and rejoice." George Garrett "A lovely, unapologetically nostalgic remembrance of growing up in a more innocent America, but it is also the touching story of one person's lifelong love affair with words." June Sawyer, "San Francisco Chronicle" "Dirda inhabits each book he reads. Inhabits it and makes a space alongside it for us to join him....He is a rare treasure." James Sallis, "Boston Sunday Globe""



Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Published: 12/17/2004
ISBN: 9780393326147
Pages: 335
Weight: 0.69lbs
Size: 8.26h x 5.61w x 0.93d

Review Citations: New York Times 03/06/2005 pg. 24
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SKU: 14449546

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Rachel
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
Best blanket ever!
Color: Onyx / Camel on Ivory (Double-sided Faux Fur Bubble), Size: Throw (50" x 60"), Color: Onyx / Camel on Ivory (Double-sided Faux Fur Bubble), Size: Throw (50" x 60")
This is so soft. I just want to keep petting it. I love that one side has different colors. I am blown away at how good this feels agains my skin. It even feels good over my lap when I have pants on. I would highly recommend this blanket. I will probably be showing all of my friends. I just hope it keeps its softness and is a good quality. If anything changes I will update.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2026
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Susie
Waukegan, US
★★★★★ 5
My mom loves it
Color: Onyx / Camel on Ivory (Double-sided Faux Fur Bubble), Size: Twin (60" x 80")
This was a Mother’s Day gift for my mom. She absolutely loved it! It’s double sided, which is hard to find on Amazon. It’s super soft, and not too heavy! The quality feels like something that is high end too!
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Reviewed in the United States on May 11, 2026
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Texas Ma-Ma
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 3
FAUX RABBIT FUR THROW
Color: Brown (Faux Fur Bubble + Flannel), Size: Throw (50" x 60"), Color: Brown (Faux Fur Bubble + Flannel), Size: Throw (50" x 60")
This throw has a soft feel to it, like you’re holding a Bunny. It’s beautiful and has a nice backing on it. I have to say I do not find it a good value for the money thinking about long term use goes. Perhaps a small child might use it as a form of comfort. I probably wouldn’t buy it again.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2026
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MLHP
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
You can’t tell the difference between this blanket and my Pottery Barn ones.
Color: Cream White
I absolutely love this blanket! It is incredibly soft and plush—honestly one of the coziest blankets I’ve owned. The thickness makes it feel high quality, and it keeps me warm without feeling too heavy. The cream color is beautiful and neutral, which goes perfectly with my home decor. It looks just as good in person as it does in the photos. I also love that it has that luxe, fluffy look that makes any space feel more cozy and elevated. I actually own blankets from Pottery Barn, and I truly cannot tell the difference in quality or feel. This one gives that same high-end, luxurious vibe for a fraction of the price. I’ve used it on the couch and for relaxing at night, and it’s quickly become my go-to blanket. So far, I haven’t had any issues with shedding, and it seems very well made. I now know exactly what I’ll be getting everyone for Christmas—this is such a perfect gift! Definitely worth the purchase—would 100% buy again!
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Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2026
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Valery Rodriguez
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
High-end quality
Color: Cream White
I’m obsessed with this blanket. It’s insanely soft and cozy without feeling too heavy. The cream color is even prettier in person and looks so clean and elevated. It’s perfect for lounging or just throwing over a bed or chair for decor. I’m so happy with this purchase, definitely worth it!
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Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2026

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