Hello Readers,
Firstly, I would like to wish all of my fellow blogger friends a happy and creative 2016. Let’s hope it is a successful one for us!
In 2015, I read 13 books out of a planned 36 books, which wasn’t a huge achievement, and is certainly something that I aim to make up for in 2016.
The low reading number was mostly due to other life commitments, and also due to a year of meeting and staying with ‘bad books’. By ‘bad books’, I mean those books that spark your interest several chapters in, but then curve-off in interest, thereafter. For me, the ‘curve-off’ has been mostly due to the plot either become boring, or me not caring enough about the developments or outcome of the main character. In these ‘curve-off’ moments, I have found my mind wandering over to grocery lists or gliding through social media newsfeeds. But even so, I forced myself to stay with the books. A regret. But certainly a learning curve.
*Please note that I use the term ‘bad books’ for personal use only. I am aware that although I might not enjoy the books, it doesn’t necessarily make them ‘bad books’ in the wider universe.
But this bad book situation we all find ourselves in from time to time, creates a tricky dilemma for us as readers. Should we abandon a book, or should we stay with it? I guess the best way to answer this, is to ask ourselves, ‘Are we reading for the pleasure, or are we reading in order to develop our writing skills?’ If we are reading for the pleasure, then I’d advise abandoning a bad book. But for honing our writing skills, then I’d advise staying with it. They can colour your world and shape your skills as a writer.
For me, there have been many reasons for staying with a bad book. The first reason has partly been for achievement purposes – for getting my book count in. I felt that after investing time in several chapters of a book, that it would be a waste not to capture that time spent reading. This is plain awful.
Sometimes the reason has been due to wanting to know if the character makes it through, or finding out whodunnit? This is a great example of when an author has created a marvellous main character, but has lagged on the plot. But as a writer, this also tells me that creating great, rounded, characters for readers is a highly important aspect of writing. It means that a reader (including myself) is willing to stay with a book even with a lousy plot.
Sometimes, I have decided to stay with a bad book long after that ‘curve-off’ moment, in order to identify the elements that I dislike in the book; so that I don’t adopt them in my own work.
I have always been aware of, and believe in, the concept, ‘bad books can teach you as much as the good books, when it comes to developing writing skills.’ But I do believe that the ‘reading for writing’ direction can really put a damper on reading books for pure pleasure. So this year I am going to read for the pleasure! I am going to crush my curiosity over character outcomes, and I will remind myself, that spending time on ‘bad books’ is time lost on ‘good books’. But hopefully, I will still identify little ‘dislikes’ even in those good books. Because my favourite saying is, ‘the sweet ain’t as sweet without the sour.’
I will be writing reviews on every good book that I read this year. How will I develop these reviews? Well rather than analyse writing continually as I read (as I have done in the past), this year I am going to capture those magical moments and natural realisations whilst reading, and jot them down in my notebook.
Moments such as when you stumble on a perfectly constructed sentence, a beautiful word, stunning symbolism, or a descriptive setting that has the power to transport you there. This year, I am going to let my heart take the lead and allow my analytical mind to rest.
Here is the list of 13 books that I read in 2015…
Life Expectancy – Dean Koontz, Instructions for a Heatwave – Maggie O’Farrell, The Miniaturist – Jessie Burton, The Book of You – Claire Kendal, Daughter – Jane Shemilt, The Little Old Lady Who Broke all the Rules – Carolina Ingelman-Sunberg, Never Tell – Claire Seeber, The Hobbit – J.R.R.Tolkien, Death on the Nile – Agatha Christie, Fiction Writer’s Handbook – Nancy Smith, The Memory Game – Nicci French, A Place of Secrets – Rachel Hore, The Scold’s Bridle – Minette Walters.
Here is the list of the 44 books that I plan to read in 2016. I have taken some books from previous lists, and some books are brand new and in the book charts. As the year goes on, some books may be added or replaced with new releases or old classics. Also, Richard & Judy are always an inspiration with the development of my reading lists, so I highly recommend you visit their book club.
Wild – Cheryl Strayed
Our Endless Numbered Days – Claire Fuller
The Quality of Silence – Rosamund Lupton
The Girl in the Red Coat – Kate Hamer
Disclaimer – Renee Knight
The Versions of Us – Laura Barnett
Revolution – Russell Brand
On Writing Horror – Mort Castle
Writing – The Horror Movie – Marc Blake and Sara Bailey
The Girl in the Photograph – Kate Riordan
Vanish – Tess Gerritsen
Eyes of a Child – Richard North Patterson
The Kind Worth Killing – Peter Swanson
Us – David Nicholls
Velocity – Dean Koontz
The Husband – Dean Koontz
I Let You Go – Clare Mackintosh
The Year I Met You – Cecelia Ahern
Elizabeth is Missing – Emma Healey
Cilla – 1943 – 2015
Edie – An American Biography – Jean Stein
The Skeleton Cupboard – Tanya Byron
Want You Dead – Peter James
Wuthering Heights – Emily Bronte
The Doll Maker – Richard Montanari
The Killing Room – Richard Montanari
We Need to talk About Kevin – Lionel Shriver
Rebecca – Daphne Du Maurier
Never Knowing – Chevy Stevens
Trafficked – Sophie Hayes
Apple Tree Yard – Louise Doughty
A Kind of Intimacy – Jenn Ashworth
Everything’s Eventual – Stephen King
Songbird – Josephine Cox
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff – Richard Carison
Tapping The Source – William Gladstone
The Kite Runner – Khaled Hosseini
The Orphan – Christopher Ransom
No Time For Goodbye – Linwood Barclay
The Dice Man – Luke Rhinehart
Nightmares and Dreamscapes – Stephen King
The Host – Stephanie Meyer
Black Eyed Susans – Julia Heaberlin
Frankenstein – Mary Shelley
So there it is! I really am going to push myself very hard to read these books, this year. Several of these books have been sitting on my book shelf for years. At some point, some where, they had triggered my interest in buying them, and there is a definite sadness in letting the years go by, where they collect dust. It’s time to open those pages and bring the characters to life!
Until next time, I say goodbye.
Best Wishes,
Donna x
@alittlebirdtweets2016
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Nightmares and Dreamscapes is one of my horror favorites. Good list.
Thank you! I’m glad to hear your recommendation on the book. I always love to add some King’s to my reading lists, so I am excited by this one now.
It’s wonderful to hear from you. Have a great year and good luck on your reading list. I look forward to the reviews.
Thanks so much JC. I had a quiet end to the year with my blog, but I have put a few writing goals in place for this year. I look forward to reading more of your work in 2016. Best Wishes and happy writing.
Interesting analysis of good books and bad books. A good list and I admit, I didn’t read much of these books but I do recognize “Kite Runner” here 🙂
Indeed, this book is a remarkable work of thoughts and wisdom 🙂
Thanks Madeeha. I am making ‘The Kite Runner’ the next book that I read, because of your good words about it. I am currently reading Wild by Cheryl Strayed, which is an adventure plot…so I think The Kite Runner will be a nice follow on book from this. Thanks for visiting and commenting 🙂
It’s so nice to know that. I’d like to read your thoughts about this book (:
I will be in touch when I have read the book. It’s always good to chat books 🙂
13 is better than the two I’ve managed this year! Writing takes a lot of time away from reading these days so tend to read purely for pleasure.
It’s sometimes hard to find time to read isn’t it. I aim to read on my commutes, but sometimes I get so tired that I just can’t digest the words. I aim to drink more water this year, so I am hoping it will make my head less tired for reading! Well done on reading the two books.
Wouldn’t say this. I wrote books and actually released 5 but could take my time in reading @LtCater
Wow. Well done on writing 5 books…a great acheivement. I must do more writing this year 🙂
Thank you. With a job, son, husband, it’s not always easy to find time. But normally I make it til night. At least, writing is a great thing to enjoy. What are you writing?
Yes time is a precious thing, and we have to try to be creative with it for our writing. I like to read on the commute and catch up with my blog, so writing tends to be done in the evening too. I haven’t been writing much lately, but I have been taking notes for ideas on flash fiction. I also need to dedicate half an hour a night on research for my novel. What are you writing?
Sounds pretty much like hard work. But I’m on at night and just have less sleep. Fantasy and drama. In German. But have released on wattpad something in English. Anyway, writing the blog needs much time, too. And I’m actually read stuff from friends and make notes and correct them. But at the end no one realize that this is work. At least, my friends didn’t believe me in that case.
Running a blog is so good but is time consuming…and the real skill is trying to find a balance between reading, writing and blooging, as they all go hand in hand. Well done releasing your work on Wattpad! Is it a novel, short story?
Thanks. On wattpad I’m publishing short stories. My books are available on Amazon 😄😄
Brilliant. I have never used Wattpad, but I have heard of it. I shall check out your books on Amazon. Congratulations for getting your work out there 🙂
They are just in German, but thank you. At least, one eshort is available in English too. 😊
Wonderful. I shall take a look at your eshort 🙂
😘
Thank for a wonderful list of books. I, too, have been guilty of continuing to read “bad books”. In fact, I used to have it as an unwritten rule to finish every book I started, regardless. My mind set was if the author spent their time writing, I should give them the respect of at least finishing the book, before passing judgement (so to speak). I have since realized, I am not gaining anything from plodding through a badly written book. For those I read, I do my best to give an honest and forthright review. Thanks for sharing this post.
Thanks for your comment, Sheila. I think after a while, we can only take so much of the bad books, before we get impatient and lose the plot ourselves haha. It is quite refreshing to know that you also have given up on certain types of books. I felt guilty when I gave up on the classic, Great Expectations, but I couldn’t bear the plot in the end. I am looking forward to the new approach of abandonment this year 🙂
Here, here!
I don’t often fall into the”bad book” trap but I always regret it when I do. I’m looking forward to your notes on several of these books and I might have to adopt a large portion of that reading list for myself!
I’m glad that you haven’t fallen into the bad book trap. There are moments when a book has made me feel so anxious – where I have forced myself to read on, when all I have wanted to do is close the book. I realise that this is not a healthy approach to reading at all. I am looking forward to enjoying the books without the pressure of analysis this year. Thank you so much for your support 🙂
The only time I put myself through that torture is when my husband begs me to read something he just finished and loved. We have very different reading preferences so it’s not always a very pleasant read. But more often than not I end up liking it 🙂
It is a good thing to vary reading genres and styles, and even better to find something you like when you didn’t always expect it.
Wishing you a wonderful 2016 too!
I was astounded at how quickly my reading addiction returned after a two year hiatus. I devoured several and had few ‘bad book’ experiences although I’m a little ashamed to say that a classic I wanted to love is still shelved – The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. I discovered audiobooks in 2015 and truly, they’ve got me back in the groove. If you’re doing your challenge through Goodreads, feel free to add me. I’ve discovered so many books that I might have missed by seeing what others are reading 🙂
Hi Karin. A happy new year to you too! I’m glad to hear that you came back to reading books after two years. It’s interesting to hear that you wanted to love a classic, because I felt exactly the same way about Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. I had got to several chapters, but just couldn’t seem to read any more. I wasn’t sure whether it was the plot or the era in which it was written – but I just couldn’t connect with it. I have never tried Audiobooks. But as I also want to do more walking in the new year, this could be a great time to try. I will see you over on Goodreads soon. It will be good to see your books 🙂
The Kite Runner is great. You’ll like that. I tried reading Frankenstein a year or so ago and couldn’t get through it. Good luck with your entire list!
Thank you so much for the recommendation on The Kite Runner. I have made it my second book to read this year. I am currently reading Wild by Cheryl Strayed, which is an exciting adventure plot. I will give Frankenstein a read. I am hoping the era in which it was written doesn’t alienate me though. I recently tried Great Expectations by Charles Dickens and felt exactly that way which was disappointing. Best Wishes with your writing for 2016 🙂
My husband read Wild some time ago and really enjoyed it. We watched the movie together with my mom and we all loved it. Great piece of non-fiction.
That’s great to hear 🙂 I must admit, the film trailer with Reese Witherspoon sold the story to me. I knew I had to read the book first though. I can’t wait to finishing it so that I can see the movie!
Rebecca is an exceptional read — it can get a little flowery, but stick with it, it’s worth it. I’ll have to check some of these out myself. Best of luck!
Thanks so much for the recommendation on Rebecca. I will make it my third read of the year. I am currently reading Wild by Cheryl Strayed, next will be The Kite Runner, and then it’s Rebecca. I have had Rebecca on my shelf for a while now, and as with a few other books on my list, I want to read the books prior to watching the films. Thank you so much and a happy new year to you!
I haven’t kept a record of books I’ve read/about to read/I’ve purchased/ freebies…but signed up to Goodreads a couple of weeks ago and they have this neat thing where you can load your Amazon acquired books and bingo I’ve a list and rated them (I’ve a very good memory!). Last year I did something similar to you, did a lot of ad hoc reading, mainly debut authors, most self-published, and some I really struggled to finish due to too little ‘show’ and far too much ‘tell’, I mind when not allowed to use my own mind! I’m now struggling how to rate some of these books, as plot and characters usually ok to good, but I’ve had to go into scan read mode skimming paragraphs and pages to give pace. I’ve learnt a lot though, not least professional editing and beta readers are a must, self-published should not be rush-published. Anyway that’s my excuse for not publishing in 2015. Many thanks for a thought provoking well-paced post…good to read you. Happy New Year. Eric.
Hi Eric. Happy New Year to you! It’s great that you have managed to get all your ‘read’ books straight from Amazon on to Goodreads. That would save a lot of time. I often update my books on Goodreads, manually – which seems rather vintage after hearing about your method 🙂 It’s always great to read reviews on Goodreads, to see what other people thought of a book. It can widen my view of a book and also confirm if my own thoughts and feelings are the same as others. I totally agree that there can be a lot of rushed self-publishing out there. The telling rather than showing technique shows naivety in writing, and I find this kind of writing unbearable. I di love how you manage to change your reading techniques to compensate for bad pacing in writing. I might have to practice and adopt this technique too 🙂 Thank you for your comment and inspiration. Donna
I love the idea of committing to a list of books to be read, and to fessing up to the ones you missed! 🙂 I’m going to do the same for 2016, thanks for the great idea! I love lots of the books on your list this year, you will rarely read anything weirder or more intense than Wuthering Heights. Some great Stephen King on there too; good luck with your 2016 list! 🙂
Hi Margaret. Happy New Year to you! Thanks so much for visiting and commenting on my reading list. I find that having a list keeps me focused. I am happy that you are inspired to create one too…and I will look forward to seeing your chosen books. I will remember your words about Wuthering Heights! The film was very weird so I can imagine the book will be even more so. I shall let you know what I think 🙂 Best Wishes with your reading and writing in 2016.
I struggle with when to abandon and when to persevere when reading a book. But, like you, I subscribe to the feeling that the sweet ain’t as sweet without the sour. Yeah, that and my eternal optimistic attitude that hopes the plot will sometimes turn towards something more interesting over time. Sometimes it works, sometimes not so much.
I like your idea, even though it may take a little more time and disruption of reading flow, to review a book as you read it. I will be interested to see how that works out for you and for your readers. I can tell you that I remember many occasions where I have completed reading a book and have flipped pages looking for that quote, sentence, or paragraph that I knew I’d remember, but inevitably forgot.
Best of luck in your reading and writing goals for 2016, and best wishes for an inspired day!
Definitely! Knowing whether to persevere with or abandon a book is a difficult decision. One book that found me in this situation was Great Expectations. I wanted to love the book because it is a well loved classic, but I just couldn’t connect with it, and I put it down to the style of writing, and partly the era in which the book was written. There were definitely some interesting characters from the outset, and some genius writing from Dickens, but as a story I just had to let it go. Taking notes during reading definitely adds a little disruption to the flow of a book. Today, I read some more of Wild by Cheryl Strayed, and I managed to note a few points…I am slowly managing to cut the analysis down. Thank you so much for your comment and thoughts on this subject. Best Wishes with your reading and writing in 2016 too! I look forward to following your work.
I’ll be curious to get your take on “Wild”. Although my wife is slightly biased since she is a hiking fanatic, she listed it as one of the most influential books she had read in the past year. Best wishes for an inspired day!
I am a quarter of the way through the book, and I can already see how your wife would think it inspirational. It’s a wonderful story of change, strength, personal development and adventure. I can imagine hiking is a wonderful thing to do.
There are a few winners on your reading list. Are you going to set up a Goodreads Challenge list? It would be fun to finish all of those in a year!
Hi Jacqui. I set up a list on Goodreads to read a random 36 books in 2016…but that was before identify these books…so I am going back to edit it. I would love to reaf all of these. Are you doing the Goodreads challenge too?
To make a list is always helpful. But what if, when you catch up new books? I just can make my tbr for a month but sometimes I get new books and take others aside. Anyway, never read in a rush. Always enjoy and take your time.
Yes this is definitely something to think about. I have taken on new books in the past, and I suppose a list can evolve in a sense. I will aim to stick with this list…unless something catches my eye in reviews or shops…which happens quite a bit 🙂
Reading is pleasure. Don’t rush. But maybe taje some reading space on your list to add new books. My tbr shelf is so full that I feel guilty to read others before. Sometimes the right book isn’t near. A book can pick you too, you know. You see it and you just have to read it. When the time is the right, you will know what to read 😉
Definitely. I believe in the power of a good front cover too, and they can sell a book for me. I have always loved art and design and this is why I have stayed with books and haven’t moved over to e-readers. I will remember your words as I work through the books 🙂
😀 I like ereaders but can’t stand without books. I need them. But when I read and review an ebook is sometimes enough. 😉
I love to have books in the home 🙂 May be one day, it will be sensible to also own an ebook for classics, and for reading self-published works etc.
Yes, for selfpublisher. I am one, so I read books of friends and other colleagues. Anyway, it’s always good to smell a new book, touch an old one and hold it in hands. I love to sit in front of my shelf and look at my books. To know that I just can pick up one and “meet old friends”. You know.
Good night 😀
It’s really great that you mix the books and ebooks format, and that you are published and self-published books. My shelf at home is overloaded with old and new books – and as you mention, they are great to look at. I often dream of having one of those huge libraries with a ladder! And as you mention, books are friends, and some are for life. Wishing you an inspired day 🙂
Thank you so much. I kind of push some authors, too. Have a beautiful day
Thank you. Have a great day…and a wonderful weekend 🙂
Thank you! Have a wonderful time too
That’s a long reading list, but an amazing one 🙂 Enjoy!
Thank you 🙂
Good list! Some great reading ahead of you for 2016 however many you conquer. With the demands on my time I’m hoping to get through a book a month this year – anything more is a bonus. Hope you have a great 2016 – look forward to reading your thoughts and stories along the way.
Thanks Nik. Lasy year I started off well, but late summer I started to slow down on the books because I found myself busy with other things. Hopefully this year I can keep a consistent pace 🙂 I am half way through Wild by Cheryl Strayed right now, so hopefully my review will be up in a fortnight or so. Good Luck with your reading too. A book a month is a great goal and will be a good achievement.
I have 150 books on my reading list for this year. I’m starting to think that’s a tiny bit over-ambitious… 🙂
The good thing is that you have identified 150 books to read…and you will be able to pick and choose amongst them depending on the mood/genre you are most in touch with at the time. Usually, when I have read Stephen King and Dean Koontz, I turn to something lighter like Cecelia Ahern 🙂
Frankenstein is suuuuuuuuuuuuuch a great book 🙂 On the other hand, do you have to read the Host? 😀
It’s good to hear Frankenstein is great…I shall look forward to that one. I put The Host in as I had read the Twilight series which I enjoyed…though to be honest I haven’t heard about The Host much when it comes to reviews.
Frankenstein is one of the classics, it’s actually one of my favorite books 🙂 Honestly, I did not care for SM and Twilight, but then I heard her in an interview saying that The Host is sci-fi for people who don’t like sci-fi, and that I got an immediate headache, so… Have fun 😀
Haha that made me laugh when you said you got a headache. Very funny 🙂 I shall push Frankenstein up the to-read list in that case. Thank you.
I hope you like it, and that you like every book from your list, for that matter (yes, even The Host) 😉
Thank you 🙂
Happy new year…. Good Luck with reading list. Good blogging and writing ahead😃💥 Aquileana 😘
Thank you. Happy New Year to you too, Aquileana! Wishing you a creative and inspirational year ahead witj your blogging and writing 🙂
Great post! I relate to your reasons for sticking with a not-very-enjoyable book. Sometimes I’m curious *just* enough to see what happens. Or I push through thinking it’ll get better. After reading half a bad book, it seems like a waste if I don’t finish it so I can at least get the read count. Otherwise it feels like I sat through a bad book for nothing! But really I need to just let it go, spend my time instead on all the scores of amazing books out there.
Thanks Shannon. It’s great to hear that you feel the same about books that you don’t connect with. There are so many good books out there. Happy new year, and wishing you a year full of wonderful reads 🙂
You can do it! I suspect The Kite Runner would be a good place to start – I’ve heard so many amazing things about it. For me The Host was amazing, but the first 2/3rds dragged – and yet the emotional pay off was SO WORTH IT. Let’s both read more this year than we did last year!
I think I’ll definitely start with The Kite Runner after I have finished the book that I am currently reading. It’s good to hear that you recommend The Host. There was something about Stephanie Meyer’s writing in The Twilight Series that I had loved at the time, so I am hoping that this one feels the same. Yes, here is to a year of more reading 🙂 Have a great day!
I, too, struggle with staying with books that grab me and then fall a little flat. I have a hard time just putting down a book and walking away. I also like your idea for writing down stuff when you’re writing. I’d like to pick up lines and quotes for my reviews. That’s something I want to get better with. Good luck with your 2016 list!
Yes, it is very disappointing when you fall in love with a book in the beginning but then they fall or drag. I find it worse letting go when I have invested in the character, knowing that by leaving them you will always have created a question mark. There have been times when I have googled the answer or read reviews to find out what happened. Good luck with picking up on those quotes and lines for your reviews 🙂
I highly recommend all of Andy Andrew’s books. My favorites are THE HEART MENDER, THE NOTICER, THE NOTICER RETURNS, and THE FINAL SUMMIT. Perhaps for next years list, or alternates for “bad reads.” Happy reading and God bless you.
Thank you so much for the recommendation on Andy Andrew’s books. I shall look them up today and make a note to read. They sound like great titles 🙂 Happy reading to you too…have a wonderful day!
It’s taken me a while to realize that I don’t have to finish a book if I don’t like it. Most of the time it has nothing to do with me learning from the writing, just a strange decision for a character or a plot. I usually have a 3 strikes rule before I stop reading midway, because I always feel so guilty afterwards.
This was a really good post! As a writer, I know I learn from these kind of books, but it’s hard to put into words just why that is. Also you’ve got one heck of a good reading list this year! I’ll be curious to hear what you think of them along the way!
Hi Lena. Thanks for your comment on my reading list. I’m about halfway through my first book (Wild by Cheryl Strayed) but hoping to finish it soon so I can begin The Kite Runner. You make a really good point when you say that you abandon a book due to a character making a bad decision; because this ties in perfectly with them not being believable or life-like in the way they operate, and so we find it hard to relate. You have definitely given me a new thought to think about today 🙂 Wishing you a year of good reading and writing. Have a great day!
I love your reading list! Some I’ve read, some are intriguing…I don’t have a list for this year, but have considered it!
I have no qualms about dropping a book that isn’t working for me. I have picked up books years later that I really enjoyed, but just couldn’t get into the first time around. Conversely, I’ve tried to re-read books I enjoyed years ago and couldn’t connect. There is a time and a place for everything — I find it is not only writing in your place and time, but also reading in your place and time.
Great thoughts!
Wow, this is a really interesting thought about the process of reading books. Books that might not suit us now, might suit us later, and vice versa, depending on the place and time. I am now thinking about I how my mind has grown with age and experience, and how I am connecting with books that I might not have been attracted to ten years ago. A great thought. Thank you!
Happy to help! I hadn’t thought about a “bad book” being good for us every now and again; I may have to try that out too! Thanks!
first of all a very happy and creative 2016 to you too dear… I loved your list of books, I have read some of those and I think Cheryl Strayed’s Wild and Cecelia Ahern’s The Year I met you are two very different and nice novels. The Kite Runner is the most awesome story of looking back and thinking…
All the best for reading & writing girl. 🙂 Keep going.
Thank you 🙂 I’m so happy you like my list of books. It’s always great to receive comments and recommendations on the books I have chosen, and it has an impact on my order of reading them too which is great. All the best for 2016. I hope you have a creative one 🙂
Don’t waste your time with The Husband by Dean Koontz. It is below his standard. You’re better off with Phantoms from 1983.
I shall note Phantoms down. Thank you 🙂
Great post and thank you for bravely listing your plan for 2016. You have inspired me to actually get my list down on “paper”. English is my first (pretty much only) language but I’ve been living in countries that don’t have English as a first language and I’ve really missed the feeling of being able to access all books in a library or bookshop. For 2016, I’ve set myself the task of only reading books I already have about the house or, now I live in America, the library. Recently “bad” books for me have been books people have recommended to me, or even lent to me, and I’ve felt weighed down by the responsibility of Returning a comment. I get round this by having another book on the go that I listen to when I’m running or doing household tasks. As a result, two books are imprinted on my thoughts from 2015: Wild (loved it!) and All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. A book I personally am struggling with is The Yonahlossee Riding Camp For Girls by Anton DiSclafani – I guess I’m persevering as I want to know why my friend thought to lend it to me!
Thank you. I list my book plans as a guide, but occasionally I see a book and add it to the list as the year goes on. Sometimes you just want to read a book in that moment, and sometimes I have even heard the movie is due out which makes me rush to read the book first 🙂 That’s inretesting that many books you have experienced and tagged as bad books have been ones recommended to you. I think it shows how although we might connect in every day life, our deeper reading interests or styles can differ. I will note down All The Light We Cannot See…the title itself is intriguing. Best Wishes with your reading in 2016. Let’s hope we discover some great books 🙂 Have a great day!
🙂
Hey Thanks for the follow ^.^
Some of the books on your reading list I studied for my literature course in college, The Kite Runner and Frankenstein. Great books for the writing style but my one piece of advice for Kite Runner is to be very open minded and optimistic about reading it. I was quite frustrated reading it because of out short notice deadlines on reading to produce essays about it, lead me to dislike it. No a liked opinion by many, but I never really got to connect with the characters much in the hard hitting scenes of the novel. Good luck with your list, I look forward to seeing your reviews ^.^
Hello. Thank you for visiting and taking the time to comment, much appreciated 🙂 I shall definitely remember your words about the Kite Runner, when I get around to reading it. I have heard some good reviews of the books, but you just never know if we ourselves are going to connect with a book. Great Expectations has great reviews, but personally I couldn’t connect eith this one due to the characters. It’s all about loving the characters I guess. Good luck with your reading in 2016. Here’s hoping we find some great books! I look forward to following your blog. Best Wishes.
Your determinism is really promising. It’s great that you’re improvising on previous endeavour. Good luck for your reading challenge this year. I think I’m gonna some books from your list 🙂
– Chandan (thevindicatedaxiom.wordpress.com)
Hi Chandran. Thank you so much. I’m almost finished the first book of the year…getting there 🙂 Best Wishes with your writing and reading in 2016. Donna
Thanks Donna! While you’re about to finish your first book, I’ve already finished mine – first one in Harry Potter series (something I longed for since my childhood) 🙂
Your book list seems great. You must have put tremendous effort in it, so you won’t waste time in so called ‘bad books’ this year 🙂
Hi Chandan. Thanks so much for visiting, it’s much appreciated. Well done on completing the first Harry Potter book. You know, it is 20 years old already…it still seems so new. I hope you enjoyed it. Chandra, I am trying to click on your blog but cannot seem to access it, and it makes me feel bad not being able to visit. I will keep trying 🙂 Best Wishes and happy reading! Donna
Yes it seems so anew – maybe its the eternal magic of these books that will fit in every era 🙂
I’m so sorry Donna that you’re not able to visit my blog. Actually I had changed my blog address sometimes ago but when you hover over my gravatar (or whenever I comment), it still shows my older address – which obviously doesn’t exist now. Well you don’t need to try anymore, here is my blog address – https://thevindicatedaxiom.wordpress.com
Do visit and tell me your honest opinion about it 🙂
Hi Chandran. I managed to access your blog which is great. Your blog looks great and your writing is beautiful. I look forward to reading more 🙂
Thank you for visiting & following my blog. Your compliments really boosted my zeal to write more & more. Readers are my constant motivation. Thanks again! Shall keep writing 🙂
You’re welcome, Chandan. Yes definitely keep writing 🙂
I’ve already read more books this year than last. Jon Krakauers Into the Wild and I’m half way through Waging Heavy Peace by Neil Young.
Last year I only managed I am Malala.
Robert, well done for achieving all those books so far! I watched the movie ‘Into the Wild’, but I can imagine the book is much better. You are choosing some interesting books 🙂
An avid reader you are! Thanks for the post 😀
You’re welcome. Thank you too 🙂
I just wanted to say that I nominated you for the Dragon’s Loyalty Award (https://thinkingandinkingblog.wordpress.com/2016/01/23/dragons-loyalty-award/), because I absolutely love your blog and hearing what you have to say – your flash fiction is fantastic! 🙂
Thank you so much 🙂 Have a wonderful day! 🙂
I just finished Elizabeth Is Missing. Enjoyed it.
Ellespeth
Hi Ellespeth. That’s good to hear…I shall look forward to reading it 🙂 Have a great day!
I’m glad that I am not the only one who cannot read all the books they put on a reading list. I have a similar problem as you do. With bad, or unfinished, books, for me, either the book is just boring, the plot never develops, or I lose interest in the story. Like you, I am going to try to do better this year.
So far I have read Wild by Cheryl Strayed, and I am currently reading The Kite Runner. These books were so good, so I am hoping I am on a roll, and that the other books on the list turn out to be just as good. I hope you discover some better plots in the books that you read this year 🙂
I’ve only read one this year, so far, and that is David Gerrold’s Voyage of the Star Wolf; a science fiction novel I read about 20 years ago. It was nice to go over old stomping grounds in a story that I really liked. I am currently reading another old favorite of mine – H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine.
I have seen the film ‘The Time Machine’, so I might have to read the book someday too. It’s a wonderful story. The Kite Runner is proving to be a great book.
I’ve heard it is in the process of being made into a film too.
That would be great!
Thanks for subscribing to my blog: despatchesfromtimbuktu. I often post book reviews, and occasionally my flash fiction. I read yr 2016 Reading list with interest – you’ve chosen an interesting mix of old & new. I have to say that “We Need to Talk About Kevin” – Lionel Shriver, is one of the most powerful, unforgettable novels I’ve ever read. And in my long life I’ve read a LOT of books, in the thousands. I guarantee you will finish this one!
Hi Alison. You’re welcome. Thank you very much for visiting and commenting on my reading list. I do try to mix it up with old and new books. I heard some good reviews about ‘We Need to Talk About Kevin’, and I am so glad that you have mentioned it is a great book. I shall push it up the reading list and will look forward to reading it. Equally, I shall look forward to following your posts and stories…your blog looks great. Have a wonderful day. Best Wishes. Donna
This is a great post, and will reference it the next time I am trying to pick a new book to read!
Thank you for following my Blog, The Science Fiction Trials!(www.thesciencefictiontrials.wordpress.com)
Thank you so much…I’m glad you like the post. I look forward to following and reading your work. Best Wishes.
Hey there! I nominated you for the One Lovely Blog Award! Visit my blog for more details!
Thanks Megan…a lovely gesture 🙂
Hi! I nominated you for the Liebster award https://elegancesicy.wordpress.com/2016/01/31/liebster-award/ If you don’t want to do it, don’t worry. I nominated you because you are so supportive of my blog. Thank you.
Hello. Thank you so much for the nomination, it’s much appreciated. I hope you had a creative January 🙂
Enjoy this statement… “Moments such as when you stumble on a perfectly constructed sentence, a beautiful word, stunning symbolism, or a descriptive setting that has the power to transport you there. This year, I am going to let my heart take the lead and allow my analytical mind to rest.” I am trying this as well in 2016, with art, with life. I just hope I don’t have to hold my breath too long!
Thank you so much for your kind comment. I hope that you manage your goal too 🙂
Looks like a good list, if I make it through Infinite Jest before the end of the year I may add a couple to my list. If it hasn’t been mentioned already, Burial Rites by Hannah Kent is also a great read. I got so into it I ended up washing my passport, which brought me to Italy, and now I live. You could say it changed my life.
Hi Jean. Apologies for the late reply, I have had to abandon my blog due to other commitments, but I am back now. Thanks for the recommendation on Burial Rites by Hannah Kent….I have added it to my list 🙂 Best Wishes.
I wish you well on your reading list for 2016. – I read for pleasure. Don’t really consider myself a writer although I recognize reading expands and improves the mind and writing skills as an added benefit. I do put a lot of research into what books I pick up to read. – “So many books, so little time.” – Frank Zappa
Thank you so much for your comment, and apologies for the late reply. I love the Frank Zappa quote. I agree that there are so many good books out there and so little time. Sometimes I also have to weigh up when to write and when to read 🙂
Reblogged this on Still Another Writer's Blog.
WOW, this is quite the list. I manage about 2 books a year. Much respect in this endeavour! It is amazing! 🙂
Thank you so much! I am on my fourth book this year so far…a bit behind schedule! But I have encountered some great books so far. Thanks for your comment. Best Wishes 🙂