My urge at Christmas time or Hanukkah-time or Kwanzaa-time is that people go to bookstores: that they walk around bookstores and look at the shelves. Go to look for authors that they've loved in the past and see what else those authors have written.

The quote by Michael Dirda encourages people to spend time in bookstores during the holiday season, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. Dirda’s suggestion is not only about gift-giving, but about fostering a sense of discovery and literary exploration. He encourages individuals to browse the shelves and seek out authors they’ve loved in the past, exploring other works by these writers that they may not have encountered yet. This act of discovery within a bookstore allows readers to reconnect with their favorite authors and expand their literary horizons.

Dirda’s advice highlights the value of reading and the joy of being immersed in the world of books. Rather than simply purchasing popular books or following trends, he advocates for a more intentional and thoughtful approach to book shopping. By revisiting familiar authors and exploring their other works, readers deepen their connection to literature and broaden their understanding of an author’s range and themes. In this way, Dirda frames the bookstore as a place of rediscovery and intellectual enrichment.

The origin of this quote lies in Dirda’s career as a book critic and literary journalist, where he spent much of his life reading, analyzing, and discussing books. His passion for literature and the joy of discovering new books is reflected in his advice to others. As someone who has devoted his career to the written word, Dirda understands the profound impact that books and authors can have on a person’s life, and he encourages others to explore that world.

Ultimately, Dirda’s quote is a reminder to slow down during the holiday season and engage in a meaningful activity like reading. By encouraging people to explore bookstores and seek out authors they love, he emphasizes the importance of literary connection and personal growth through the written word. This holiday season, he invites readers to find joy not only in giving and receiving gifts but in the pleasure of books and the worlds they open up.