Trains, boat, planes, cars, feet, wings, and books all provide experiences in new places, broaden understanding of both our differences and similarities and invite us to relax, and recharge our energy.

This year I’ll be writing about places to travel through books, a chance to safely leave home and avoid long lines at the airport, wear and tear on the car, salt from the ocean drying out your skin, sun’s glare in your eyes, holes in your hiking boots and sleeping in strange rooms in strange beds. From your comfortable reading chair, accompanied by your favorite beverage and possibly a snack, you’ll visit new places, meet new people, ponder events both historical and futuristic. I’ll be asking other authors to share the places and times found in their books. Reading their descriptions you might find a new storyteller to add to your favorites or a new addition to your bucket list.

Books can take you anywhere. Here are five favorite quotes about travel without planes, trains, boats, cars, or hiking boots.

“I love the way that each book — any book — is its own journey. You open it, and off you go…”
– Sharon Creech (Award winning children’s book author) Find Sharon’s books here

“Keep reading. It’s one of the most marvelous adventures that anyone can have.”
– Lloyd Alexander (Newberry Award winning author) Find Lloyd’s books  here

“In books I have traveled, not only to other worlds, but into my own.”
― Anna Quindlen, How Reading Changed My Life  Find Anna’s books here

“Reading… a vacation for the mind….”
― Dave Barry (American Humorist; Author) Find Dave’s books here

“Books and doors are the same thing. You open them, and you go through into another world.”
― Jeanette Winterson (English Author) Find Jeanette’s books here

Where did you want to visit last year while we stayed safe at home? What are you planning in the years to come?  I’d love to hear from you in comments!