I just love this stuff.... ( )

The first of three collections of in-game books from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim video game, The Skyrim Library, Vol. 1 is long enough to be rewarding but short enough not to outstay its welcome. Subtitled 'The Histories', it covers some of the history of Tamriel, guides to various cities, some of the deeper stories and folklore, and a bit of backstory to the 'Red Year' in Morrowind's history.

To be sure, some of the included pieces are insubstantial or less useful out of context, or written without any real flair. But Waughin Jarth's 'A Dance in Fire' and 'The Argonian Account', tracing the adventures of the hapless clerk Decumus Scotti, are particular highlights. Because of their multi-volume story, they are less likely to have been given attention in-game so their presence here is very rewarding. Overall, it's just nice to be able to revisit some of the features of the evergreen Skyrim. When a man is tired of Skyrim, he is tired of life. ( )