Chase Crossingham was unique in the way he shared his literary enthusiasm with anyone that showed an interest. He was quick to introduce new acquaintances to authors that had captured his attention. It was not unusual after a conversation with Chase to receive a book in the mail. An attentive listener, Chase's gifts invariably aligned with your interests, but he also delighted in expanding your horizons. Lorrie Moore and William Vollmann were some of his favorites to recommend because their stories were intellectually vigorous and unexpected. His passion was fiction and he reveled in works that evoked deep contemplation with surprisingly beautiful prose . He worshiped greats such as John Updike and had a particular affection for the works of Cormac McCarthy. Chase's lifelong acquisitions culminated in a wide-ranging collection of books and a personal library of thousands. A portion of these books will go to stock the Mt. Airy little libraries that are being erected in his memory. There is no greater honor that anyone can bestow on Chase than to read a book that he cherished and continue where he pointed us all...on a literary journey.
