Outside of a Dog

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Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read. This captivating account explores twenty-five influential books from literature, psychology, and philosophy, serving as a memoir of the author's reading journey. Rick Gekoski examines the significant role these works have played in shaping his life, applying his characteristic ironic and analytical perspective to both the texts and himself. The result is a witty exploration of the idea that we are defined by what we read. Gekoski’s selections include a diverse array of authors and titles, such as Dr. Seuss's "Horton Hatches the Egg," Allen Ginsberg's "Howl," J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye," and T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land." He also delves into philosophical works by Descartes and Hume, alongside influential texts by W.B. Yeats, F.R. Leavis, and Germaine Greer. The book reflects on the interplay between literature and personal identity, showcasing the transformative power of reading while avoiding the label of ‘intellectual’ that Gekoski finds pejorative. Through this exploration, he invites readers to consider how their own literary choices shape their lives.