When I think of my seven-year-old self exploring my basement, what stands out most vividly is the smell of old books—faintly sweet, dusty, and comfortably damp, vanillic. My grandpa’s shelves, filled with thick volumes packed with sophisticated words, both intrigued and intimidated me. Watching my grandpa devour them effortlessly—often finishing an entire book in a single sitting—became a personal challenge and quiet inspiration as I grew older, from high school into college.

Today, reading often becomes an afterthought. It's easy to find summaries or brief explanations of the classical texts that have shaped our culture and society. Yet, in the words of C.S. Lewis, "if one must read only the new or only the old, I would advise him to read the old." Original authors are often their own best commentators, and you may surprise yourself with the insights you gain from works you've always considered untouchable. Let's not fulfill Mark Twain’s definition: “′Classic′—a book which people praise and don't read.”

Brom’s Bookshelf started simply: garage sales, mailing out books, and donating volumes from my dad’s and grandpa’s collections. What began as a way to declutter has evolved into something more—a joyful acceptance of book-hoarding! Our mission is straightforward: to make reading philosophy, theology, and the classics approachable and engaging. We want to celebrate those timeless works that deeply nourish our minds, hearts, and souls, yet too often gather dust.

My guides and reviews aren't perfect—I create them with full awareness of my limitations and genuine enthusiasm for learning. Many of these books contain such profound depth that even an expert could spend a lifetime exploring them. However, I firmly believe this depth shouldn’t deter us. Instead, let’s approach these classics with humility, curiosity, and an earnest desire to grow.