International Day of the Book
Little-known fact: Today is International Day of the Book.
As I understand it, the holiday started in Spain, where it's a tradition for men to give women roses and women to give men books on this day. This is also the day Spain gives out its Premio Cervantes, the Spanish equivalent of the Pulitzer.
Both William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes died on this date in 1616, but they didn't die on the same day. See, England and Spain were on different calendars at the time, so they actually died a few days apart.
Two literary greats died that date, but the wonderful thing is, their works remain. The date has now been turned into a celebration of literature.
My husband and I started celebrating this holiday three years ago. We each get the other a book, because I'd much rather have a book than a flower. Sometimes we select our own books, and sometimes we surprise each other.
Why not start celebrating the holiday yourself this year? Pick up a book for a friend, family member or loved one. May I suggest "Don Quixote"?
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