"A lovely, funny read." - George Saunders

“In this charming collection of essays, Reed digs into the many pleasures of reading, interweaving poignant and amusing stories from her life as a bibliophile and teacher to advocate for the many joys of a life spent between the pages.” - The New Yorker

“Why We Read would be a delightful addition to any bookworm’s shelves. In exploring the comfort and companionship books offer us, Reed gives her reader those gifts, as well.” - The Washington Post

“So why do we read? Humorist Reed offers a generous assortment of answers in this splendid collection of 40 mini-essays…Reed is good company, and her celebration of books, reading, and readers is a delight.” - Booklist

"Delightful reminiscences of a book lover."- Kirkus Reviews

“Bibliophiles will find much to love.” - Publishers Weekly

“This is a rich, funny, poignant book, and the author will be your new best friend.” - Mary Norris, New York Times bestselling author of Between You & Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen

“Shannon is one of my favorite writers — brilliant, humble, and wickedly funny.” - Elizabeth Passarella, author of Good Apple and It Was an Ugly Couch Anyway