There is nothing like opening a new book and disappearing into the pages. For me, a book is a mini-vacation where I can experience the greatest range of emotion, learn something new, or just plain laugh.

Well said.

I always feel like a wonderful friend has moved away when I finish a great book.

The feeling of opening a brand new untouched book to me is like exploring untouched territory Toad I love nothing better, when I have time enough at last . . .

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_Enough_at_Last

True enough, but the closest thing to genuine magic for me is music. Nothing stirs deeper and as instantaneously.

I used to read all the time, different types of books.
I think I began with Grimm's Faery Tales when rather young. Book reports were my favorite homework. I think I only used Cliff Notes once when in college.
If I could still read comfortably you would not see me on the computer.