The books one reads in childhood, and perhaps most of all the bad and good bad books, create in one's mind a sort of false map of the world, a series of fabulous countries into which one can retreat at odd moments throughout the rest of life...

Summary

This quote suggests that the books we read during our childhood, even the ones that are considered not-so-good, have a profound impact on our imagination and perception of the world. These books create a unique mental landscape, comprising incredible worlds and countries that we can revisit in our minds as a form of escapism throughout our lives. They serve as a sanctuary or refuge from reality, offering solace and an opportunity to temporarily detach from the real world.