As a kid, I loved nothing more than to curl up in our backyard hammock with a beloved book.

Even after those blissful summer afternoons had been relegated to childhood memories, I continued to seek out cozy spots for reading.

Which is why I love nooks, little corners of the house where I can tuck in a rocking chair or mound of pillows.

This is my current spot, in the back corner of our living room. To the left — not visible in the photo — are two tiny built-in shelves, perfect for a couple of library books or dogeared novels.

The chair is a hand-me-down from friends, the lamp came from IKEA.

This is where I sit each morning to read the newspaper, provided my daughter doesn’t beat me there. She, too, loves tucked-away havens.

In the kids’ rooms, I’ve always reserved one corner for a reading nook. Sometimes there’s a chair there. Or beanbags. Or big throw pillows. I’m about to redo a corner in my daughter’s room, because … well, I stole her chair. I know, I know. But the chair took up so much space in there.

The reading nook also is ideal for napping.

Here’s the E-man’s corner:

Someone is not paying attention to the book!

I’d love to redo his as well, but that will have to wait until I can afford the cute, red, miniature armchair I’m envisioning.

I hope to have Tootie’s done by the end of the weekend.

My inspiration this go-round?

Amanda (Soulemama) and Minvera (Mama without borders).

Take a look at their reading nooks and tell me you aren’t similarly inspired.

For Minvera’s, go here. I love, love, love her decorating style.

And for Amanda’s, head here and here. I visit her blog each day for a little bit of much-needed serenity.

Anybody else have nooks? If so, I’d love to hear about them.