Book butterfly has been my nickname since I was old enough to read books on my own. I have always loved reading (so much so that I have very thick glasses at this point), and the many books I devoured on Sunday afternoons and on long car rides have taught me valuable information and life lessons. Through reading historical fiction, I have learned how to see history, and situations from different people's points of view, and that has helped me to relate to others and resolve conflicts. Quotes from many books have resonated with me, and I use them in every day life to make good decisions, to value what is truly important, and to be a good example to the people around me. I have learned about true courage, and that courage can be shown in danger and without. Favorite books line my shelves; great teachers that I return to time and time again for wisdom, comfort, and thrill. The Bible is the greatest book I have read, and will always be so. It teaches me how to love, obey, and follow Christ, the greatest example anyone can follow. His love, commands, and glory fill the pages, as well as the accounts of so many people who struggled like me, and yet achieved victory through Him. Every time I read from the Bible, there is something there for me to apply to my life right then, and I discover new treasures in His Word each time I read it. Other books have also had long lasting impact on my life as well. Historical accounts of Christians throughout all of history who suffered for Christ, found strength in Christ, and lived for Christ inspire me to be grateful, encourage me when I feel defeated, and strengthen me in my faith and determination to serve Him. I have also learned ways to cope with sorrow, fear, and defeat from these true stories of lives well lived. In addition to the Bible and inspirational books, I also enjoy reading historical fiction, mysteries, classical literature, and other types of books full of intrigue, risk, humor, and real life stories. These books, such as the Chronicles of Narnia, the Prince Warriors, the Dear America series, the Mandie Books, the Boxcar Children, The Bracken trilogy, the Horsefeathers series, Tale of Two Cities, and many others, are dear friends whose characters have brought to life history and the people that lived it, cuddled up beside me on dull days, been my life long friends, and showed me what it means to be brave, mess up, get back up, and inspire those around you. I have never had friends to support me, teach me, or encourage me, so books have been especially precious. I have learned many things from books that have become so engrained in me that I hardly realize I learned it from a book. Spiritual insight, encouragement, correction, guidance for daily living, history, and how to look at others' perspectives are all tools that I have gained from my dear friends - books.