Stepping into the Main Library branch in downtown San Francisco, I was reminded all over again of the refuge, the cool-marble-on-a-hot-day relief, that books so enticingly offer. Yes, boys and girls, I am now an official San Francisco Public Library card-holder, which is, funnily enough, my first real documented proof that I now lay my head here in San Francisco. Renting a no-lease month to month room in a house of 9 roommates, my car sold with no need to change my driver’s license, this library card is really the first tiny root of my time here. It’s the only clue in my wallet that my life is being lived in odd, bright colors, warmer air now filling my lungs.

More importantly, it means I am ready to start my Readable Road Trip!

It seems only fitting to start in California, a place that in its vastness seems ungraspable and strange to me still. Leading me back to a row of stacks, the librarian manning the information desk chirped earnestly, “Oh East of Eden! That should be required reading for every Californian! It just puts you so in touch with the state.” I couldn’t have asked for a better review, a more reassuring moment as I buckle my seatbelt for this American tour in ink and deliciously sturdy pages.

So, I’ve got Steinbeck in hand, an excellent companion for the first leg of my trip, I’d say. I’ll be sharing my lit-inerary  (too much book/roadtrip punning? Ok, ok last one, promise) for the first part of my journey — California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho — very shortly. Thank you thank you thank you to everyone who has suggested books so far! I can’t wait to get started.