Hooked on Books 

My father, Charlie “Tremendous” Jones, was an extraordinary book evangelist, often joking about being a “pusher” who hooked people to get addicted to books. As his daughter, I witnessed firsthand his deep belief in the transformative power of the written word. Despite flunking out of 8th grade, he evolved into a personal development legend, intimately understanding and breathing the power of books. 

Whenever someone sought his advice, instead of drowning in analysis or self-defeating words, he led them to his vast library. The ritual was simple: choose a book, and read aloud for twenty minutes. The result? Tears or newfound clarity, with the person exclaiming, “How did you know that’s exactly what I needed to hear?” 

My father extended this philosophy to the weekly Bible studies he and Gloria hosted in their home, where no opinions were shared, only answers from the Scriptures. His approach to business cards was also unconventional; he deemed them ineffective (often getting pitched in the trash once the meeting was over) and replaced them with personally selected and autographed books, recognizing the lasting impact of such a unique calling card. 

He practiced Bibliotherapy, giving away bundles of books to various audiences, believing in the healing power of the written word. Tremendous advocated not just reading but writing too, asserting it was our duty to record our life journey as a guiding light for others in the valleys. 

Growing up, our home was void of televisions during my teen years. Instead, Tremendous encouraged me to focus on school, athletics, work, or reading. I often joke that I read How to Win Friends and Influence People before The Poky Little Puppy. He even incentivized reading by tying it to earning money for writing book reports so my brother, Jere, could earn money for a car. 

The impact of literature on our family dynamic was profound. As Jere departed for college, he wrote daily postcards to my father, sharing thoughts and reflections from his reading. These postcards became keepsakes, illustrating their deep connection. 

Reflecting on my life, I acknowledge that my darkest moments aligned with periods of poor or nonexistent reading. My father’s timeless advice resonates: the power of thought, rejuvenation found in meaningful books. He closed his speeches holding a pile of books at the podium or stage, urging, “Don’t read to be smart; read to be real. Don’t read to be big; read to be down to earth. Don’t read to memorize; read to realize. Don’t read to learn; read sometimes to unlearn.” 

As Tremendous’ daughter, I carry forward his legacy, understanding that personal development happens when we develop the person. Books are the cornerstone, and reading is the source of all discovery and vision. So, let’s read not just to be in the know but to be in the grow.