How exquisite.

It's one of my favorite books that I have tucked away for rainy days -- 

Encyclopedia of the Exquisite: An Anecdotal History of Elegant Delights.

It's a charming collection of historical essays about a whole host of odd and wonderful subjects: confetti, fireworks, quadrille naturaliste, obelisks, aerostation.

I can't help but learn something new every time I flip through the pages.