What books to lend and what to give

In a time when reading was seen as a crucial moral tool, this practical handbook offers clear guidance for anyone tasked with building a parish or school library. The author argues that well‑chosen literature can steer young minds away from sensationalist pamphlets and toward wholesome adventure, romance, and moral example. By explaining why the right book matters, the introduction sets a tone of gentle stewardship rather than heavy‑handed censorship.

The bulk of the work is organized as a handy checklist, dividing suggestions into groups such as Little Ones, Junior and Senior Classes, boys, drawing‑room stories, biblical studies, history, science, and even magazines. Each category provides concise advice on the qualities a suitable title should possess—authenticity, moral strength, and engaging storytelling—while warning against weak, overly sentimental, or dialect‑heavy works. Readers will find a treasure‑trove of recommendations that balance educational value with genuine enjoyment, making the task of curating a library both sensible and inspiring.