Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader

Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader cover
Good Books rating 4.42
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Technical
  • ID: 11155
  • Added: 2026-02-21
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780713993158
  • Published: 1999-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Ex Libris is a charming collection of essays that recounts the author's lifelong love affair with books and language. Anne Fadiman shares her passion with wit and humor, moving seamlessly from literary giants like Coleridge and Orwell to personal tales of her own bookish family. This book is a treasure trove for bibliophiles, offering a unique blend of literary criticism, personal memoir, and cultural commentary./n/nFadiman's essays are not just about books; they explore the deeper connections between literature and life. She delves into the quirks and joys of being a book lover, from the thrill of finding a rare edition to the comfort of rereading old favorites. Ex Libris is a celebration of the written word and the people who love it, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever found solace or inspiration in the pages of a book.

Reviews
Novel Notions · 2019-07-19
delightful 4.00

This collection of essays is a delightful tribute to books and reading, filled with charm and humor. It's a must-read for any bibliophile.

This book is a celebration of the love for reading and books. The essays are charming and humorous, making it a delightful read for anyone who enjoys books. It's a perfect gift for book lovers and a great way to connect with fellow bibliophiles. The essays are personal and relatable, making it a heartwarming read.


Quick quotes

    Ex Libris by Anne Fadiman is a lovely little collection of essays about bookish topics.

    And what's better than a book about books?

    It's a perfect gift for book lovers and a great way to connect with fellow bibliophiles.

Rohan Maitzen · 2012-09-05
adored 4.75

This book is a love letter to books and reading, filled with humor and wisdom. It's a must-read for any bibliophile.

This book is a love letter to books and reading, filled with humor and wisdom. The essays are personal and relatable, making it a heartwarming read. It's a must-read for any bibliophile who wants to connect with fellow book lovers. The book is a celebration of the love for reading and books, making it a perfect gift for book lovers.


Quick quotes

    I adored this book.

    I suspect the difference in our reactions is that neither she nor you are really 'common readers' after all

    It's a must-read for any bibliophile who wants to connect with fellow book lovers.

Resident Judge · 2010-01-05
delightful 4.50

This book is a delightful collection of essays that captures the essence of being a book lover. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys reading.

This book is a delightful collection of essays that captures the essence of being a book lover. The essays are personal and relatable, making it a heartwarming read. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys reading and wants to connect with fellow bibliophiles. The book is a celebration of the love for reading and books, making it a perfect gift for book lovers.


Quick quotes

    This is a delightful book, and Fadiman's subsequent volume of essays At Large and Small is just as good.

    Though less focused on books only books

    It's a perfect gift for book lovers and a great way to connect with fellow bibliophiles.