This is my favorite book. When I say that I mean something different than "This is my favorite novel."

I actually mean that this physical book is my favorite.

I bought it shortly after it came out from a local bookstore @bookculture that I grew to love when I was living in NYC.

The story took me all over the city and I loved reading about New York and feeling familiarity with the locations in the novel.

The artwork in the book makes the physical pages much more visceral than a kindle or an audio book. There is something special about seeing the paintings and touching the pages they're printed on.

The story was well told but more than anything, An Object of Beauty introduced me to an appreciation for art. I had never had my eyes opened to these works before and the descriptions of the pieces gave me an understanding that had previously been lacking in my life.

The book was so good that I've loaned it out to a half dozen friends over the years. I encourage people to interact with the book however they want. Some underline. Some star. Some dog ear. Every time it returns a little bit more worn and read through one more unique way.

I read it once a year now. And today I've finished it on my birthday. I love reading this book.

I fall in love with New York City all over again.
I yearn for the chance to return to an art museum.
I smile at the marks my friends have left on my book.

Most of all though, I love the way the moonlight is reflected on the water.

Thank you for writing An Object of Beauty, @SteveMartinToGo. And thank you for your words being a part of my favorite book.