The Bad Beginning: Book the First (A Series of Unfortunate Events)
A few months ago I picked up this book while browsing through my local bookstore. I know it is a book for children, and about children, but I initially bought it to add to my collection; if you haven't read my blog devoted to rare book collecting then you may not know that my hobby is collecting rare books, first editions are preferred, but at times out of my price range, I also collect contempory authors and childrens books.
Sometimes you can judge a book by it's cover? I saw this book and felt compelled to pick it up...after looking over the cover I took a peak inside and adored the illustrations. I turned the first page, and fell in love with the authors particular style of writing...and his introduction
"Dear Reader,
I'm sorry to say that the book you are holding in your hands is extremely unpleasant. It tells an unhappy tale about three very unlucky children. Even though they are charming and clever, the Baudelaire siblings lead lives filled with misery and woe. From the very first page of this book when the children are at the beach and receive terrible news, continuing on through the entire story, disaster lurks at their heels. One might say they are magnets for misfortune.
In this short book alone, the three youngsters encounter a greedy and repulsive villain, itchy clothing, a disastrous fire, a plot to steal their fortune, and cold porridge for breakfast.
It is my sad duty to write down these unpleasant tales, but there is nothing stopping you from putting this book down at once and reading something happy, if you prefer that sort of thing.
With all due respect,
Lemony Snicket
I have just finished the third book and still have a few to go; the eleventh book in the series has just been released. I love the storylines, they are also great books to read while studying, or taking a break from life.
What can I say? The books are great as I can read them and actually turn of my brain! And maybe just one day, I will be able to share them with my children?
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