HOW TO DECIDE TO WRITE A BOOK
Deciding to write a book, much like setting out on an unexpected journey, begins with a spark of inspiration, often as surprising as a wizard's visit on a quiet morning.
For many individuals, this decision is born out of a simple but profound desire to share tales of adventure, courage, and the beauty of our world.
This initial spark might come from a personal experience, an imaginative idea that refuses to fade, or an urge to explore a particular theme or topic deeply.
It might be a story they've carried within them for years, waiting for the right moment to emerge, or might start with a peculiar dream, a piece of old lore, or even a whispered story heard at the nearest inn.
Love for storytelling is another fuel for writing a book. We all are fond of tales told by the fire, with a good pipe and a hearty mug of ale.
This passion for stories is nurtured through a lifetime of listening to our elders, reading old tomes, and weaving our own adventures into the fabric of our daily lives.
But not all books are written to tell a story.
Some may write to preserve the history of their people, ensuring that the bravery of those who ventured beyond the Shire is never forgotten. Others may seek to share the wisdom of their people's ways with far-off lands, or perhaps to leave a legacy for future generations.
Some even might decide to write a book about different pie recipes to share the delight with others, or even gain some fame.
The path to writing a book requires one to consider their commitment to such a task. Writing, like a long journey, demands time, effort, and a touch of perseverance. An aspiring author must ponder their ability to embark on this adventure.
In the end, deciding to write a book is a deeply personal choice, driven by a blend of inspiration, passion, practical goals, and the readiness to embark on a rewarding journey. It is much like setting out the way Master Bilbo did: a bit of courage, a sprinkle of adventure, and a heart full of stories ready to be told.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LIBRARIES AND BOOKS
Books and libraries hold a special place, much like a cozy nook by the hearth on a crisp autumn evening. These repositories of wisdom and stories are more than mere collections of bound pages; they are the guardians of our history, culture, and imagination.
Books, you see, are magical doorways to far-off lands, distant times, and grand adventures. Through them, we can travel without leaving our snug hobbit-holes, experiencing the bravery of distant heroes, the wisdom of ancient lore, and the mysteries of the world beyond our home.
Each book is a friend, ready to share its secrets whenever we wish, offering solace, inspiration, and delight.
Libraries, those quiet sanctuaries filled with the scent of old parchment, are the heart of our community's wisdom. They house the collective memory of our people, preserving tales of yore and the knowledge of the ages. A visit to the library is akin to a visit to a wise elder, full of stories and teachings waiting to be discovered.
Within their walls, we find the chronicles of our ancestors, the fables that shaped our childhood, and the records of our daily lives.
But the importance of books and libraries extends beyond mere enjoyment.
They are our teachers, guiding us through the lessons of the past and inspiring us to weave new tales for the future.
Books foster a love for learning and a curiosity about the world beyond our rolling hills. They challenge us to think deeply, to empathize with others, and to dream beyond the confines of our own experiences.
Moreover, libraries are community hubs, places where Hobbits gather to discuss ideas, share stories, and connect with one another.
They host events, readings, and discussions that bring our community together, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual understanding.
In a world that is constantly changing, libraries offer a stable, welcoming space where the love of books and learning can flourish.
Believe me, I myself have witnessed four couples meeting here, which ended with weddings.
Now, don't get the idea of coming or sending your younglings here to find someone to wed.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF BOOKS
First, keep your books away from damp and direct sunlight, much like you’d shield your seedlings. Moisture can cause pages to warp and mildew, while too much sun fades the delicate ink.
If a book is accidentally left in the sun, place it in a cool, shaded area immediately to prevent further damage. Sun exposure can dry out the binding, so applying a bit of leather conditioner can help restore it.
Next, handle your books with clean hands, turning pages gently to avoid tears. Treating a book roughly is like trampling through a freshly planted flower bed—neither ends well.
If you find a book with torn pages, use acid-free tape to mend it carefully, ensuring the repair doesn't discolor over time.
Store books upright on sturdy shelves, supported by friendly bookends to prevent slumping. Dust them regularly with a soft cloth to keep them clean, just as you’d keep your hobbit-hole tidy.
If books get dusty, a gentle brush or a soft, dry cloth can remove the dust without damaging the paper. For tougher stains, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but be sure to dry the book thoroughly afterward.
If a book suffers damage, mend it with care. A bit of glue can work wonders, much like a bit of string for a broken fence.
For water damage, place absorbent paper between the wet pages and press the book under a weight, changing the paper frequently until dry. Avoid using heat, as it can cause pages to warp further.
TUCKBOROUGH SECRETS
Secret dinnerfast
Did you know that dinner is always prepared in the Smials too large on purpose that there are always leftovers?
No one remembers the history, sadly, but apparently, there is a tradition to have an early breakfast or very late dinner in the Smials.
And the food? Yes, it's the leftovers.
There is no fixed time for that meal. It might happen an hour before the sunrise, or two hours after the midnight. Basically, any time between dinner and breakfast.
Not even all Tooks are invited to that meal. There is one thing you should accomplish to have that... let's say honour.
But what it could be?
Secret entrance to the kitchen
I know you had been waiting for this, so I won't make you wonder for too long.
There is a secret entrance to the Smials, and it directly opens to the kitchen.
I don't think many here know where is the kitchen in the first place, and Tooks included. But that's where the secret dinnerfast takes place.
Do not expect any clues, as I won't give any, but trust me, it worth to try, even you can't find it.
Once you find it, cooks will add your name into the list, and you will be free to attend aforementioned gatherings. But that's not all.
You will also have access to the kitchen any time you want, and you will be allowed to get a plate of meal, pastries, or even biscuits whenever you want!
Open-hearted Tooks
This one might not be as excited as the first two, but I think... it is way more important than all.
You all have seen all the people in Waymeet who lost their houses for various reasons. I think you all are aware that not all hobbits live in luxury. In fact, some make the ends barely.
Every month Tooks send various kinds of donations to them - be it food, clothes, or anything necessary to live.
They did not want it to be revealed but it is certain that they can't do it alone, no matter how much they try. Therefore I and Miss Donna decided to open a charity for those who are willing to help.
It's called "The Share of Hobbit", and every kind of donation is accepted - money, food, clothes, toys, tools or materials to build burrows... anything you think essential.
Just leave the package labeled 'charity' at the entrance or the post box of the Smials, and the rest will be taken care of.
DAILY LIFE IN SMIALS
If we are going to talk about Smials, it would not be fair to separate the library from the rest of the dwelling, as it is a one big establishment as a whole. Therefore I will tell you about how Tooks spend their days under the Sun.
Every morning starts with a hearty breakfast, and it is not that secret breakfast I mentioned before. More hobbit, right after the sun goes up, with proper tea and all.
Last five hobbits are bound to clean the table and do the dishes, so you can understand that there is a race to the breakfast table every morning.
/chuckle
After breakfast is settle down and important affairs like servings of the breakfast, new recipes and sometimes crops, everyone goes to attend to their own business.
You can see Miss Donnamira sits by the window and checks the tabs while enjoying the soft breeze.
Master Adelard walks up and down in front of the shelves, and very often nags about a missing copy.
Master Paladin meticulously cleans and polishes all the trophies Tooks have earned for long years, as he is very proud of who he is.
Younglings plot something new in the corner I might or might not be responsible for the initial idea sometimes.
There are also other Tooks who run different errands and many don't know them with their names like Miss Roseberry, little Timmy or Master Linnel.
It all goes on until lunch, followed by a nap that usually lasts for two bells. And that's when the busiest time in the library starts.
You see, after the main errands are run and there is not really much to do for people, they usually take a stroll through the Shire and Smials Library is one of their stops.
They come here to chat with their fellows about books, borrow or return a book, and sometimes to read in a silent corner without being bothered.
If not, I and Miss Donnamira check the tabs again to make sure everything is proper, sort misplaced books and do many other things you do as a librarian.
When the bells ring six, the library is closed and cleaned, and many other errands are finished in different corners of the Smials.
It's followed by a glorious dinner and once again everyone parts their way, but this time either to rest, to attend some merrymaking, or if someone (like me) does not live in the Smials takes the road to their own burrow.
As you can see, although life might seen very slow and solemn from the outside, it is actually very busy here. In my opinion, that's what makes Tuckborough a fun place.
