broader cultural attitudes. The opening of the memoir delves into Egan's early interactions with literature, emphasizing the importance of instilling a love for reading from a young age. He recounts a range of books that he encountered—some deemed improper by the adults in his life—which sparked his imagination and curiosity. Through these recollections, Egan reflects on the evolving nature of reading, the value of various literary styles, and the formative power of storytelling in shaping moral and ethical perspectives. This section sets a nostalgic tone for the memoir, inviting readers to reflect on their own literary awakenings while providing a snapshot of a bygone era in literature. (This is an automatically generated summary.)