This antiquarian volume contains four essays written by John Livingston Lowes on the topic of reading books. These fascinating and thought-provoking essays tackle the subject from varying angles, and include historical evidence, information on popularity and accessibility throughout the ages, an exploration of the importance and influence of reading, and more. The essays are: "The Pilgrim's Progress", "The Noblest Monument of English Prose", "Two Readings of Earth", and "Of Reading Books". This volume is highly recommended for anyone interested in reading, and would make for a great addition to any bookshelf. John Livingston Lowes (1867 - 1945) was an American academic and critic of English literature. Many antiquarian books such as this are becoming increasingly rare and expensive. We are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a specially commissioned new biography of the author.