There was a point in time when I would scoff at the easiness of the “Read 25/50/100 Books This Year” New Year’s resolutions. I’d devour at least a book a week. I’d have 2-3 books on my “currently reading” list. Whether it be reading a book for the first time or rereading my favorites, I’d always be reading.
That feels like a very long time ago.
I blame college, really. Who has time to read like that when one has so many school-related readings to do for classes, exams, and papers? Not to mention that if I’m staying in during a weekend evening, I’m probably so tired that I just want to do something mindless like watch TV or aimlessly surf the web before going to bed early rather than get absorbed in a really good book. (This is probably a good time to mention that I had little to no social life in high school, which meant I had far more ample reading time during the weekends.)
Regardless, it is high time for this to change. I want to read for pleasure again, and I know that if I’m determined to do so I’ll make time for it somehow. I got in a few books over the summer while backpacking around Southeast Asia (gotta love the convenience of having a Kindle!) but that petered out when school started again. Now that it’s winter break and I have all the time in the world to do whatever I want, I’m going to maximize this wonderful opportunity to read, read, read.
First on my list is Harper Lee’s classic “To Kill a Mockingbird,” which I have never read. Next is Sarah Dessen’s “What Happened to Goodbye,” as that’s been on my Kindle for months, waiting to be read. Then, I’m not sure. Perhaps “The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson? Or “Shanghai Girls” by Lisa See? Or “1984″ by George Orwell? The possibilities are endless. (Suggestions welcome!)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacqueline_Winspear
Jacqueline Winspear – the Maisie Dobbs series (8 books to date)
I think Devil in the White City is a bit overrated. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who wasn’t impressed 1984. It’s impossible not to be affected by it, even if you have high expectations going in.
To Kill a Mocking Bird is one of my favourite books! It’s truly amazing. I recommend Tuesdays With Morrie if you’ve not read that already.
@Jesse: “1984″ is first on my to-read list, then! Will probably be starting it tomorrow. (“To Kill a Mockingbird” is not available in the Kindle store so I’m going to have to wait till I get my hands on a physical copy to start that one.)