For centuries books have held a place of honor in our collective hearts and minds, whether housed in the great libraries of classical civilizations, the libraries of the “Great Houses” of Europe, or the wooden niche in a country home.

Whether related to their historical relevance or their long beloved history, books resonate with the stories they tell, the places they carry us to and the way they make us feel.

The Kolkata Book Fair and related Kolkata Literary Meet are examples of ways we “celebrate” books as well as those who write them. Despite the occasionally political edge that colors that celebratory mood, I hope to attend the fair next year to experience it for myself. And kudos to the organizers for using Amar Sen and Sabyasachi Sen’s “Hand Shadowgraphy” to add another storytelling dimension.