You overly romanticize books just like men in their 50s and hipster wannabes overly romanticize vinyl records. If you think a child would rather see stacks of books they don't have time to read and can't checkout over the Natural History or Air and Space museams, you're an idiot.

Even IF she's a reader these are terrible suggestions for an 11 year old. Quit pretending Matilda is a real person.

You too, bro.

I was feeling similarly about life and this city as you described in your post. Now I have a puppy and I have several pleasant interactions with strangers every day and it has definitely altered my perspective for the better.

On the flip slide I just bathed my princess for the 3rd time in 3 days because she rolled in poop AGAIN on our walk in the park today. So it's definitely work, but I'd say it's worth it. It's not like I was spending my time productively before, and now at least I'm out walking a couple hours a day and talking to people.

Maybe you should get a pet.