Public Service Announcement

"They were all in love in God and they were drinking from a fountain that was pouring like an avalanche, coming down the mountain."-Butthole Surfers, Pepper

Alright, given the time of year it's time for me to make a public service announcement: Give books for Christmas this year.

Sure, it seems like a no-brainer for me to say that, but seriously, here are a few reasons it's a good idea:

1.) You'll be supporting an industry that's pretty much all-American, from stage one to the bookstore. Books are written, acquired, printed, stored, distributed, and sold in the U.S. When you buy a book, unless it's translated or brought over from the UK (damn you Rowling!), most of your money will be staying here. In our economy. Helping it get back on its feet.

2.) Hardcover books still say, "I care," or at least, "Here's something I think you should have around for awhile." Trade paperbacks give a similar effect. Cheap paperbacks say, "Here's something fun. Don't take it too seriously and pass it on when you're done." Either way, it's a good gift.

3.) Books encourage the dreamer and the storyteller in all of us--and I really mean this. There is no other form of entertainment that gives the reader such a large role in the creation of the story as it happens. Not movies, not videogames (they offer "interactivity" of a different kind), not TV. Only Dungeons and Dragons might have books beat for stimulating the imagination. If you want your kids, or anyone else, to be creative, spoonfeed them books with great characters and great stories. You won't be disappointed.

Okay, that's my spiel for the day. Now go buy some books. Everyone deserves pulp fiction in their stocking at Christmas.