I grew up in the country and when I wasn't wandering through the creeks, fields and pastures with the dogs (Dad didn't like cats), I enjoyed reading animal stories such as the Black Stallion series and Call of the Wild. I did have a pet pig at one time though.
I also enjoyed the original Elsie Dinsmore series that was written in the late 1800's. I've been searching antique stores and collecting the series. I don't have all of them yet, but getting close.
Since I was the oldest, I was on call to help Dad whenever he needed it. Unfortunately he figured if I had time to read, I needed something to do. So finding time to read was difficult and cherished.
I don't know how many books I have, but they are overflowing my house. I don't like getting rid of books.
In high school I spent time getting my grandfather to write his life story. He was born in 1897. In his day you could put a car together in your garage from scraps if you were so inclined and the Indianapolis 500 was a dirt track. I've carried it around for years and haven't got it typed up yet. Guess I need to get busy.