[My] deep religiosity... found an abrupt ending at the age of twelve, through the reading of popular scientific books.

Isn't it strange that I who have written only unpopular books should be such a popular fellow?

I like best to have one book in my hand, and a stack of others on the floor beside me, so as to know the supply of poppy and mandragora will not run out before the small hours.

Once you read a classic, you will start loving even the smell of the books.

[I] read books because I love them, not because I think I should read them.

The most comfortable place for a tired mind is in the lap of a book.