We are now a month and a half into the new year. What have you been reading lately?
Every year I keep track of the books I read on a spreadsheet complete with the title, author, and a brief comment. At the end of the year, it gives me such satisfaction to look over the list. So far, I have read five books in 2024.
What will you read this year? How will you decide what book to invest time in? I pay attention to books recommended by others. Once, a student from Nigeria told me that The Idiot by Dostoevsky was one of the most influential books he ever read. That’s a compelling recommendation I thought, so I read it which led me to other profound books by the same author.
Another method I use to choose a new book is to take pictures of the books featured in airport bookstores. Usually, I can find these titles on my local library apps like Hoopla or Libby and borrow them on my phone. Reading books on my phone can be useful when you are lying in bed at night reading but don’t want to disturb your partner with the room light on. Also, you can easily highlight, make notes, bookmark, and search for words or names without losing your place. And if you return and then borrow the book again, your highlights and notes are still there. I am not sure how that works. But of course, you already know the benefits of reading a book on your phone.
Why read? Besides the sheer pleasure of stories or gaining information and insight about whatever you happen to be interested in, the breadth of knowledge you gain helps you become more empathetic and connect with others. When we connect with others with what they are interested in, then our lives become richer and deeper.
I wish you a happy new year as you explore new worlds and people through books.
Jane
International Conversation Cafe 