The book I am going to be reading and writing about is titled "The Treasured Writings of Kahilil Gibran". It is a compilation of ten of his books, translated and edited by Martin L. Wolf, Anthony R Ferris, and Andrew Dib Sherfan. The books are: Tears and Laugher; Between Night & Morn; Secrets of the Heart; Spirits Rebellious; The Broken Wings; The Voice of the Master; Thoughts and Meditations; A Self-Portrait; Mirrors of the Soul; and The Wisdom of Kahlil Gibran.

The tranlations were originally copyrighted in 1947, 1949 & 1951 with later printings and copyrights.

The reason I purchased this book, besides Borders going out of business and getting a great savings on the book, is a story in itself.

When I was about 14, my godfather and Great Uncle Mike gave me a 'just because I know you read' gift. He had wrapped it up. It wasn't my birthday or any special occasion. Normally, we didn't get gifts for no apparent reason. I don't remember if he gave my sister anything-I don't think so. I unwrapped the gift and it was a book called "The Prophet" by a writer whose name was different. I thanked him, but apparently had a puzzled look on my face. He told me how to pronounce the author's name and said he is a great author and poet and writes about things that people should listen to and think about. My mother told me to go to my room so that the adults could talk.
I did, taking my new book with me. I believe I read two or three pages of that wonderful gift. Then my uncle left and my mother called me out of the room. She told me to bring the book to her. She took it-and I never saw it again. She called it trash. I was devastated!
I will never forget the inscription: To My Goddaughter- Never stop reading, never stop learning! Love, Your Godfather and Uncle Mike.

This memory was in the recesses of my brain until I saw this book and then I had to have it. Next on my list to get is 'The Prophet'.

This man was one of the few of my relatives that actively encouraged my reading-no matter what my mother said. And now I am taking his advise and reading an author that he recommended. Thank you Dear Uncle!