"I have a shelf of comfort books, which I read when the world closes in on me or something untoward happens"

This quote by Anne McCaffrey speaks with the power of books to supply convenience and solace in times of distress. It recommends that when life ends up being frustrating or something unanticipated takes place, reading can be a source of convenience and haven. The phrase "shelf of convenience books" implies that the speaker has a collection of books that they turn to in times of requirement. This might be books that they discover particularly comforting, or books that they have read many times before and can rely on for a sense of familiarity and security. The quote suggests that books can be a source of convenience and strength in challenging times, offering a safe haven from the outside world.