A house without books is like a room without windows. No man has a right to bring up his children without surrounding them with books, if he has the means to buy them. It is wrong to his family. Children learn to read by being in the presence of books. The love of knowledge comes with reading and grows upon it. And the love of knowledge, in a young mind, is almost a warrant against the inferior excitement of passions and vices.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of books in a household. It suggests that a house without books is lacking essential elements, just as a room without windows lacks natural light and a connection to the outside world. The quote asserts that parents have a responsibility to provide their children with access to books, as it is crucial for their development and education. Reading not only teaches children how to read but also fosters a love for knowledge. This love for learning acts as a safeguard against negative influences, as it provides a more fulfilling and constructive alternative to succumbing to base desires and vices.

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