It totally is. I know it but I can't stop it. I know that the reason I am doing the book drive is because I want to touch that one girl who is the way I was at her age. I know it. I know its why I talk up this book drive as much as I do. And, y'all I talk this thing up to every person I come in contact with.

As much as this came about because of my mom's birthday, I know it has to do with me more than her. Because I am self-centered. I know this. I have always understood this about myself. I see everything in terms of myself. I cannot let the pre-teen or teenaged me not have as many books as possible to read.

I know. It's selfish and rude of me to be thinking of me when I write something about giving to others. But, there it is. I am a selfish woman. I am selfish in my love of the written word. I tell myself that I owe it to the books.

For the longest time, books were my only true friends. I know it sounds silly and cliched. What can I say? It's the truth. There was a time in my life when no one understood what I was going through. If you have ever been an adolescent girl, you know exactly what I am talking about. Thank God for Paula Danziger (remember her?), and Judy Blume and Cynthia Voight. They made me realize I wasn't alone in wondering whether or not I was a freak.

Now, in all my self-centered glory, I am begging you for help. Please if you have not already made a donation, do it. You will feel so good about yourself. That's it! I'm going to pass on my self-centered ways to you.

What was the book that made you feel like you were a little more normal than you actually thought? What's the name of the book you loved and read over and over again? What book would you love to pass on to a kid who reminds you of yourself?

Tell me what it was in the comments section. I'm constantly updating the wish list. Then, consider passing it on. If you have it in your possession and want to donate it, let me know. I'll take it off the wish list. After that, just send it to:

Oasis Youth Shelter

3634 Central Avenue

Ft. Myers, FL 33901

If you think of a book and don't have it, consider donating something from the Oasis Youth Shelter wish list. Even if you can't afford it right now, bookmark it. Come back to it later. Take my word for it. Being self -centered feels awesome!