Ballads of Books is a witty, affectionate anthology devoted not just to literature, but to books as cherished objects—rare, beautiful, worn, collected, borrowed, lost, and lovingly reread. From the opening "Ballade of the Bookworm," which recalls the lifelong enchantment of childhood reading, the volume gathers poems and brief pieces that celebrate libraries, old bindings, wide margins, forgotten authors, and the private pleasures of bibliomania. Its pages move from reverent portraits of the library as a hall of immortal minds to humorous complaints about borrowers, playful fantasies of famous owners reclaiming their books, and tributes to the bibliomane who rescues obscure works from oblivion. Throughout, books emerge as companions, teachers, relics, and records of human lives. The anthology contrasts luxury editions with beloved, well-thumbed copies, honors Shakespeare and other great writers as living presences, and reflects on the soul-like craft of manuscripts and the haunting power of provenance. Rich in wit, nostalgia, and devotion, this is a celebration of reading as identity, memory, and enduring delight. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.