In 2003, a Milwaukee bookseller named David Schwartz was diagnosed with lung cancer and given only a short time to live. Because books were so important in his life, his friends and family all wondered: With his remaining time, what would Schwartz choose to read?

Naturally, I considered what book I would choose if faced with such a situation. Would I want a challenge or an escape? Something I've read before or something new?

I found my answer, and rather quickly. Now I want to know yours. On your deathbed, what book would you read, and -- more importantly! -- why?

Email me back with your answer, or visit this week's blog post to join the discussion in the comments section, as well as to learn more about David Schwartz -- who opted for War and Peace and then lived another six years.

Rather than tell you what book I would choose, let's make it a contest. We have lots of free new books to give away, so why not? First three readers to reply with the right title win those free books.

If you know me well, the answer won't be difficult to find. For those of you who have no idea who I am but want a fighting chance, here it is in cryptogram form:

OK, that's probably enough death-centric chit-chat for a Friday. Have a wonderful -- and healthy -- weekend, writers!