For bibliophiles, “miscellany” is a word rich in potential delights. Akin to “compendium” and “anthology,” it holds up to the reader the possibility of discovery, not only of particular bits of new knowledge, but perhaps the uncovering of vast areas of study heretofore wholly unbeknownst to them.
One of the true joys of both reading and bird study is the practice of simply doing it for unapologetic personal pleasure. In the world of books, the trend toward “utilitarian books,” those intended to impart to the reader some great secret that will improve their business, romantic life, or cholesterol levels has largely displaced […]