This image is the cover for the book Why We Read

Why We Read

A beautiful keepsake extolling the magic of books.

A collection of illustrated quotations—astute, profound, witty, and sweet—on the magic of books. Whether you were devoted to reading as a child or have discovered a new love for books as an adult, Why We Read reminds us what a power and privilege it is to read. Seventy-five quotations from writers and thinkers, such as Jane Austen, Carl Sagan, Margaret Atwood, Roald Dahl, Jorge Luis Borges, and Annie Dillard, celebrate this noble pursuit. Colorful illustrations by Ellen Surrey brightly interpret their words and create a lovely keepsake.

Ellen Surrey

Ellen Surrey is a Los Angeles-based illustrator who graduated with distinction from Art Center College of Design. Her clients include the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker, Google, Mental Floss, Chronicle, AMMO, and more.



Gibbs Smith