Have you ever read a book that blew you away so completely that you wondered how you got by in the world before that book existed or before you read it?

Take your time answering…

If yes, then try this neuroses on for size: After completing this life-altering, genre-bending masterpiece, does a certain melancholy creep in not only over its conclusion, but because of the sense there are likely dozens—even hundreds—of other books out there that might impact you that you just don’t know exist?

Told you.  We literary types can get a little bit up in our heads.  That’s okay, lots of other people go plenty nutty, too.  Without the aid of any literature whatsoever.

It’s my soft side that laments books undiscovered and unread.  Luckily the optimist wins out and leads me ever back toward Powell’s, Annie Bloom’s, countless airport kiosks, book recommendations from friends, and still other authors at the recommendation of writers I love.

The chance to be blown away by your next book is always just around the corner.