Asking my-eighteen-year-old bookish-self a few questions . . .

 

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Half a life time ago, I was an eighteen-year-old young man, his life ahead of him, and I had little idea what I was going to do with that life. As I have a little sit down with my younger self, to ask myself a few questions about my bookish habits back then, it might be wise I don't let it slip I still don't know what I am doing with my life - let him have some hope!

Me: Hello there, eighteen-year-old me. How are you?

Eighteen-year-old me: Hi. Fine.

Me: Cool. So, I would just like to ask you a few questions about what you're reading, if that's okay?

Eighteen-year-old me: Yeah, that's fine.

Me: Okay. Well, I suppose I will start with, what do you like to read?

Eighteen-year-old me: Um. I read a few different sorts of books. I've read some of the James Bond novels . . . I read On The Road by Jack Kerouac. And crime novels. And I read Clockwork Orange not too long ago.

Me: Which crime novels do you like to read?

Eighteen-year-old me: I like Agatha Christie's books. And I like the Rebus novels, the ones I have read. And Ruth Rendell too. I just started reading her books.

Me: What drew you to the Bond novels?

Eighteen-year-old: I liked the films. I grew up with them, so when I found the books, where it started, I wanted to read them. Though they're a bit different from the films.

Me: How so?

Eighteen-year-old me: The films are a bit lighter. The books heavier. Which makes sense. I mean, the character's basically a government licensed assassin - that's going to be a brutal life.

Me: What are some of the central themes to the Bond novels?

Eighteen-year-old: Well, a lot of it is just adventure and spy story . . . But, there is heavier stuff in there. I mean, people think of Bond as just being a spy who shags, drinks, and kills people with a cool line. But, in the books anyway, he falls in love, he experiences loss, there is some character development. Jeez, in one of the books, he sits in a park and considers the flowers in one chapter!

Me: You Only Live Twice, I think.

Eighteen-year-old me: Yeah. The one after the novel in which his wife is murdered . . .

Me: Okay. So, you mentioned On The Road as well. What did you think of that? Why do you think Kerouac wrote that book?

Eighteen-year-old me: I liked it. From what I understand, the book is based on his own experiences. I liked it, yeah. I feel a bit restless myself sometimes. I'd quite like to take off on an adventure like that, experience things a bit.

Me: Me too . . .

Eighteen-year-old me: Huh?

Me: Oh, nothing. Doesn't matter. You like crime too then? Why do you like crime?

Eighteen-year-old me: Hmm. Not sure. They can be dark. But I like Christie's books too, and they're not quite so dark. I like the suspense, how each chapter can answer questions but also throw up new ones. And then there's the big reveal at the end! But, you have to have good characters, and a good story. Not interested in crime by numbers. Not interested in blood, gore, and swearing either, not if it's just there to try and seem edgy.

Good crime novels are just really good stories. They're fun, but they can also touch on themes that are deeper . . .

Me: I like crime too. 

Eighteen-year-old me: You're me though, right, so . . . ?

Me: Yes. But, some things change, some things fall away . . .

Eighteen-year-old me: Oh. Yeah . . .

Me: Ahem. You mentioned Clockwork Orange too. Did you like that? What drew you to that?

Eighteen-year-old me: Honestly? I kind of just wanted to read something dangerous. I was surprised when I found it in the school library. I was in there during lunch one time, and somebody came in, someone I knew, and they made fun of me for spending my lunch break reading - they had no idea what was going on in the pages of that book!

I liked it. It was shocking, yeah, with the violence and everything. But, I think it went deeper than that. In one of my classes once, we talked about how the state is violent. Like, threats of violence is how the state keeps peace and order. If you know what I mean. Well, this book explores that.

Me: I know what you mean. Thanks for talking with me. I'll let you go. It was good to see you. Look after yourself, and, you know, don't let your fears get in the way of your hopes.

Eighteen-year-old me: Uh, yeah. You too. See ya.

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5 ways I unwind with a good book . . .

 

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I don't know about you, but for me there's a few things that make settling in with a good book that little bit better . . .

1. Candles (scented is better)

I don't know why, there's just something cosy about candles. 

For my money, I do like the idea of reading by the light of a lamp, a few candles burning. Just so long as there is sufficient light to read by!

Be sure to air out the room afterwards though - the soot has to go somewhere!

2. Turn off the phone

They aren't just phones any more, and it isn't just friends and family that want to get hold of us on them either. There's a few bug-eyed lizard people that have figured out ways of exploiting the neurochemical drama that is our brains, pinging us with notifications and offers and . . . "Ooh, if I just put my info in here, I'll get a voucher for . . . " And they've got you!

Just turn it off when you really want to immerse yourself in that book!

3. Coffee, cakes, or a glass of wine

Something to nibble and/or sip on while you're reading is grand, as long as you don't get it all over the pages obviously. 

Coffee or tea go with books like they were made for each other. And, if you're feeling especially in need of comfort, you can't go wrong with hot chocolate. Of course, in the evening, you might want something a little stronger - when the words on the page start to blur and run into each other, you've probably had enough . . .

Cakes and other nibbles are great too. It's a comfort thing, book lovers!

4. Blankets, socks, and jumpers

At the time of writing, it's a cold December night and Christmas is on the horizon. Rain, wind, and cold are promised and I don't need any of that when I am trying to read!

Give me all of the blankets, socks, and jumpers. Give me warmth and cosiness, and I will be a happy little bookworm!

5. Music

At the moment, I have Beethoven playing. Before that I had Led Zeppelin (getting the muthaflippin' Led out!), and when I read I love to have music in the background. Nothing too intrusive and distracting. Also, I don't want to listen to something I haven't heard before when I am trying to read. No, it has to be something familiar.

Music and books because, la di da, I am so cultured and fancy! What what! Pip pip! Toodle-oo!

Well, that's my five ways of unwinding with a good book. Hope you enjoyed this little bit of fun. You can support my writing and blogging, buying me a coffee on ko-fi.com - the caffeine goes so well with my reading, as long as I don't get rings on any of the pages!

Thank you for reading, and thank you to all supporters!

This is what happens when you don't use it! (Spoiler : you lose it!)

 

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Recently, I returned to a book that has been on my shelves for a little while; Elisabeth Smith's Fast-Track Russian, from the Teach Yourself range of educational books. I had no reason for learning some basic Russian when I bought the book, just an interest in trying something new. After buying the book, some years ago now, I went through the book once, and then it returned to my shelves and, as far as I can recall, wasn't disturbed again until a couple of weeks ago.

Elisabeth Smith's Fast-Track Russian

Elisabeth Smith has written a number of books for the Teach Yourself range. In fact, to quote the blurb on the back of my copy of Fast-Track Russian, "Elisabeth Smith has published more than 30 books, CDs and DVDs in 11 different languages. She has taught audiences all over the world." 

And, in this book, the author sets out a course which, if the reader follows the structure of said course, can have the reader speaking Russian in just six weeks. Not fluent Russian, of course. But just enough that you might be able to get by in a casual conversation or two in a Russian speaking part of the world.

When I tried to learn Russian from Elisabeth Smith . . .

I decided fairly early on that I would not strictly follow the course, which was probably my first mistake. Other people's structures and designs on my time are anathema to me. And, besides, my own approach seemed to be working just fine. For a while.

I think I was about half way through the book when I realised I was losing interest. Not that I stopped. I endured. But it became much more noticeably a chore than it had been when I started the book. I kept on at the lessons and reached the end of the book, but it was more about enduring than enjoying the process by the time I reached the end. However, this had nothing to do with the book itself. I just had no opportunities to use what I was learning, you see. And so, many of the words and rules waned and faded in my mind.

The result

I can probably pluck a few disparate Russian words from my memory and construct something resembling a sentence. But someone for whom Russian is their first language may find me hard to understand. Some English speaking people find me hard to understand though, to be fair, so . . .

As I read the book, I had some successes with the tests and progress tracking exercises within. But, I'm afraid, much of that has passed from the surface of my mind down into the cellar levels. There they are, the words and rules, gathering dust like bottles racked. Perhaps I could go down there and pluck them out if I should need them. But, the problem is that I just don't have much need to use them. I fear that, unlike fine wines that improve with time, the knowledge I have acquired and bottled in my mind's cellar, may be more like milk, and if I go down there to open up a bottle after too long, I will just find a lumpy and off-putting mess.

If you enjoyed this little piece of ponderous pondering, feel free to buy me a coffee on Ko-fi - all support is appreciated because it keeps me writing and blogging! So, thank you!

Seven pick up lines for the single book lover - one for every day of the week!

 

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I cannot promise that any of these lines are going to lead to any bookishly romantic tropes becoming apparent in your life - falling in love with a millionaire or a time traveller anyone? And, even armed with these pick up lines, you may still find that the only thing you are taking to bed is a good book.

You may find these lines mildly amusing though. So, there's that . . .

1. "I want to show you my Secret Garden." (why, uh, beat about the bush? Ahem.)

With reference to The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

2. Shall I compare thee to a Summer's day? Thou art more damn hot!

With reference to Shakespeare's Sonnet 18. 

3. "Damn! If you were print, I would have to squint to read you because you are too damn fine!"

4. "Give me a chance and I will do what I can to meet all of your Great Expectations."

With reference to the novel, Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens.

(Unsolicited Dickens pics not advised)

5. "Dr. Jekyll on the streets, Mr. Hyde in the sheets, baby!"

Referencing The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.

6. "Now and then, I do love a bit of Philip K. . . . "

Referencing the author, Philip K. Dick, whose surname is, well, you know . . .

7. "We could build a beautiful library together."

Just a play on the old, "We could make beautiful music together."

Well, there you go. As promised, a bookish pick up line for every day of the week. Again, please do not be surprised if none of these are successful. This list is purely for the lulz.

If you enjoyed this rather tongue in cheek piece, you can buy me a coffee on ko-fi where I regularly post updates about this blog and other of my writerly endeavours; all support is received gratefully! It keeps me writing, so thank you!

How Book Lovers Spend Their Time . . . And . . . We Don't Have a Problem!

 

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Ever find yourself thinking, "Jeez, I would rather be reading!"? Of course you have, you're a card holding bibliophile! And, we love you here!

Whether we're out at the supermarket, in a meeting at work, spending time with the in-laws, we're just all too aware of the fact that this is eating into time that could be spent immersed in that book. That TBR pile is not getting any smaller, after all.

In fact, trying to get to the bottom of that particular pile is like Sisyphus trying to roll his boulder up that hill. I don't know about you, but I am forever spending money I don't really have on books I need (and, I do need them. I really do. But, I swear, once I have this last book, that'll be it for the month. I won't buy anoth . . . ooh, what's that book!).

But hey, you know what, the depressing state of my finances aside, there's no such thing as too many books, am I right? If I need to make space, I can always rearrange some stuff. I mean, do I really even need a bed? I'm sure I can make a corner pretty comfortable, just curl up there . . .

Here's a question, why do people think it's okay to come and disturb you when you're reading? Ever had that? Like, you're sitting there, caught up in the flow of the book in your hands and loving it, and someone interrupts you, assuming that you're reading only because you've nothing better to do. What is that all about!?

Maybe I just need to go and arrange my bookshelves to calm myself down. Speaking of which, how do you arrange yours? Colours? Alphabetically? Chronologically? By publisher? Personal significance? Size? Stacked?

Personally, I have gone for a mix of alphabetically, stacked, and personal significance. In other words, it's a bit of a mess; and, that's why you won't find any pretty bookshelf pictures in my Instagram feed.

I am not all that interested in how aesthetically pleasing my bookshelves are, to be honest. I even have some book series on my shelves with mismatching cover designs, mismatching editions. I know there are some for whom that's going to be a painful mental image. I can only apologise and hope that you will forgive me. If you cannot, I will completely understand and can only thank you for joining me on this crazy journey this far.

Some of the shelves hold books which, for me, have personal significance, and those books stand neatly for the most part, and they are alphabetised according to the authors surname. And, each authors work is ordered chronologically according to the date of publication. But then, I have other shelves upon which you will find books that I like very much, but which have less personal significance to me. These shelves are more disordered, the books here more likely to be stacked. Sometimes, books move from one set of shelves to another.

It's a hard system to explain, but it makes sense to me. And, uh, please don't touch my books without asking. Is that just me? Tell me I am not weird. I feel really uneasy about people being around my bookshelves.

Hm. Maybe I do have a problem . . .

No. It's others who are wrong!

I mean, those aren't just books. There are characters inside those books that I have walked beside, fought with, felt the love they have felt. And, when it all comes to an end, I have mourned the loss of them. Because, oh my god, what relief/sadness/emotional mess is left in the wake of reaching that final page.

Having said that, at least now the book is done, I don't have to delay going to the toilet, or eating, or sleeping. Don't have hold all that stuff in as I feverishly make my way through each chapter. 

Phew!

If you enjoyed this little piece, perhaps you could help me in my bookish/writerly endeavours, and support me on my ko-fi page; Ko-fi is a great platform for creatives and the fantastic folks that follow their work. All support is gratefully received, and much appreciated! 

Thank you for reading. Stay safe. Stay well. And, keep reading lots of good books.

The Success of Inspirational Books, Read by Hollywood Stars and Blue Collar Workers Alike!

 

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When I check what's trending on Twitter, most of the time, it feels as though I have descended into a pit of misery. It's like taking a shot of anxiety straight to the brain! And yet, for some reason, one of the first things I feel a need to do in the morning, within minutes of opening my eyes sometimes, is run through that list of bitterness and despair. Don't know why. But, I do know that I am not alone; articles, books, and documentaries about exactly how bad for us social media and our phones can be abound!

And, it's not just social media, the whole world seems kind of in a mess. The environment's kind of fucked, and we aren't doing enough about that (if only nature would give us a hint that it doesn't want us being quite so intrusive . . .); then there's politicians swinging their dicks around (in most instances, only figuratively speaking, thankfully); and, for some reason, people can still be driven to histrionics by the thought of someone, somewhere, not necessarily someone they know, engaging in consensual acts of love and sex that aren't strictly heterosexual (I dunno, you'd have thought they'd have more pressing things to be concerned about, but there it is!).

It's enough to make you want to never leave your bed!

With all that in mind, it's not hard to fathom the appeal of inspirational and motivational books. Those books that make us stop and consider the way we think and behave. Perhaps, just perhaps, there are other things we could be doing? Or, maybe there are things we should be letting go of? The answers out there somewhere, right? Right??

As someone who has spent nights awake, with thoughts in my head ugly like stagnant standing water, you can be sure I have my fair share of inspirational books on the subject of mental wellbeing. Because, thankfully, the discussions around mental health and wellbeing are just about beginning to become less taboo; the stigma is being questioned! 

Perhaps one of the best known authors writing about mental health, including his own struggles, and the successes, with regard to his mental health, is Matt Haig, the English novelist and journalist. When his book, Reasons to Stay Alive, was published in 2015 it was received to generally positive reviews. And, in those reviews can be found declarations of real thanks for a book about mental health written in such a frank way. Sort of memoir, definitely inspirational, this book takes a look at living with mental ill health, and how that doesn't have to mean being condemned to a life forever bleak.

On a personal note, I am thankful for the likes of Matt Haig. Men in the public eye who stand up and say, I struggle. And, that's okay. The discussion around male mental health, and why it is that men don't get the help they need is something we still need to work on; suicide has been the biggest killer of young men in the UK for a long time and, according to statistics, men appear most at risk of death from suicide.

Mr. Haig has written of the therapeutic power of writing, and the reading is pretty damn good for you too!

Of course, mental health isn't the only aspect of our lives that we might want to consider on the path to happiness, health, and a fulfilling life. But, it's a pretty good place to start!

In an age where we seem to be drifting from one screen to another, there's apparently an increased interest in wanting something more. Or, maybe something less. I've read plenty of pieces on the benefits of giving up smart phones, and returning to older models. Or giving up mobile phones completely (is such a thing even possible!). Then there's the abundance of books concerned with mindfulness, meditation, and the benefits of being in the moment. And, hygge. Remember hygge? I think it's safe to say we are looking for something.

One of the books in my "to be read" pile is How to do Everything and be Happy by Peter Jones, a practical look at how to get the most out of life without overburdening yourself and, as it says on the cover, be happy. You'd also find, as you nosed along my shelves, a copy of Happiness by Design by Paul Dolan, which I've read (in the wake of a relationship falling apart). Both, in their own way, suggest the benefits of finding balance in our lives; the balance of pleasure and purpose, and not trying to overload those scales.

So, maybe we just need to stop, take a breath or two, and get some balance back into our lives. Sounds good to me. Maybe, if we could do that, learn to stop, just now and then, we might all calm down a bit, and the Twitter trending list wouldn't be quite so fevered, and riddled with fearful/hateful knee jerk reactions.

Recently, a copy of Mae Martin's Can Everyone Please Calm Down? arrived in the mail. And, though I would hesitate to call it a self help book, the author does hope for a more considerate and considered conversation about sexuality. Like mental health, a subject that seems to, gradually, be something we can see our way to talking about openly. Sort of. As the blurb reads, Mae's mission is to ensure that in a world that's full of things to worry about, who we choose to kiss should not be one of them. And when it comes to sexuality, she asks: CAN EVERYONE PLEASE CALM DOWN? 

A couple of years ago, I watched Mae Martin's Comedians of the World special, on Netflix, and enjoyed it, but then forgot about it mostly. (Sorry, I was drinking my way through an unhealthy relationship and unaddressed mental issues at the time). But, Martin's work came to my attention again (once the relationship was over and I was beginning to get my shit together) and I have gotten to be a little bit obsessed. Not in a worrying way, mind. It's all good. But, yeah, she can write a book about as well as she can stand-up and TV, so . . .

To put it simply, I very much recommend Mae Martin's book. And, though this blog doesn't really concern itself with television, you should also check out Feel Good on Netflix! It's so good. I am delaying watching the final episode for myself because once it's gone what the hell am I supposed to do? Go outside? Watch something else? Pfft!

Links to a few inspirational books

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig

The Comfort Book by Matt Haig

Happiness by Design by Paul Dolan

How to be Human by Ruby Wax

Can Everybody Please Calm Down? by Mae Martin

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson

If you enjoyed this piece, please consider following/supporting me over on my ko-fi page; Ko-fi is a platform for creative types and the people that follow their work. All support is gratefully received and very much appreciated!

Thank you, see you again soon. Stay safe. Be well. And, read lots of good books!

Reading Challenges - Part 2

 

In my last post on reading challenges, I wrote about how I don't really bother with them because I don't feel the need to. I find inspiration in other places. Nor do I concern myself with my progress, in terms of how many books I have read per week/month/year. It doesn't really concern me.

There have been a couple of occasions when, on admitting my love for books and being the bookish sort of fella who always has a book with them, I have been asked how many books I read in the last month or year. And I find myself bemused by the question. I have no idea, none whatsoever. I don't read to keep count, and I definitely don't read to try and beat someone else's tally. I'm not into competitive reading!

The last post was inspired by a comment I saw online. This comment concerned the writer's "shame" over their not reading as much as others and how challenges and tallies she saw online made her feel this way. My last post was a reaction to that I suppose.

However, there are benefits to these challenges. 

I find a lot of inspiration for which books I am going to pick up next in interviews, articles, reviews, and other places. And, in the same way, challenges can introduce you to books that you might not otherwise have picked up, and reading broadly is, in my opinion, a good idea. So, it's not all bad. Just don't let them leave you feeling ashamed of your reading habits. If that's the case, let it go, it's not serving you any more.

And so, for balance, and just for a bit of fun . . .

A little list of reading challenges (or suggestions, if you'd prefer)

1. A book with a colour in the title

Whether it's Goldfinger by Ian Fleming, Black Beauty by Anna Sewell, or Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, there are plenty of books out there with colourful titles. Colours can carry with them all sorts of different thoughts and feelings, and so using colours in the title can tell readers something of what's inside. Using colour is a great way to create an image in the reader's mind, and it shouldn't be too hard to find a book you'll like with a colour in the title.

2. A book with a number in the title

At the moment, I am rereading The Hundred Year Old Man Who Climbed Out of a Window and Disappeared (which could also probably feature under the suggestion heading "Books with long titles"), and I would thoroughly recommend that one in this category. However, like colours, there are plenty of books out there with numbers in the title. Let's see, there's Catch-22 by Joseph Heller, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey, there's Slaughter-House Five by Kurt Vonnegut. Ooh, and there's Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. And, what about Around the Worl . . .

Well, I could go on and on.

3. A book that reminds you of summer

Now, this one is going to be much more personal to the reader. I could sit here and type out books and stories set during the summer time (To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, for example). But, it could be the case that the book that reminds you of summer is a book not set during the summer at all. Perhaps it's a book based on a film you saw with a loved one one summer some years ago. Or, perhaps it's a book you read as a teenager during those long and glorious summer days away from school. Whatever it is, why not pick up a book that makes you feel as though you are basking in sunshine?

4. A book that reminds you of someone you'd rather forget

I know, right? Why on earth would you want to undertake this one? Well, why not? If you find yourself reading a character and they remind you of someone unpleasant from your own life at least the character is stuck between the pages of a book! Besides, books, aside from being a source of joy and pleasure, can, like other pieces of art, help us to work through our emotions. And, the feelings that we have for people we'd rather forget are just as much in need of our attention, sometimes more so, than those that we have for the ones we love.

5. A poem that you can read aloud

This can be pretty much any poem. In fact, a piece of advice that I took on board a while ago was that when reading poetry it is a more pleasant experience if you do read aloud. To feel your mouth, and tongue, and lips working with the words, the sound they make, is a part of the pleasure. And take your time with it. Think of it like chocolate, or wine, as something to savour. I might recommend The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe, which I think is a pleasure to read aloud. Or, This Be The Verse by Philip Larkin. Though do be aware, reading poetry out loud can lead to odd looks from passersby. However, it can also lead to admiring looks. So, might as well just go for it, I say!

6. A book that makes you think

This one, like the suggestion for a book that reminds you of summer, is one that is going to be personal to the reader. The book that makes one reader stop and think, considering their views on life thus far, will bore the other reader stupid, wishing they could get a refund on the time and effort they invested. Personally, I have an interest in nature and wildlife, so I am intrigued by books on those topics and the issue of conservation. However, there are, thankfully, books on a plethora of topics. Not just is there books on environmental concerns, but social concerns, political, and so on. Seeking out those books that make you pause, consider life a while, are worth the seeking out, in my opinion. The world, I sometimes fear, could do with a few more people reading books that make them think a while.

Well, those are my suggestions for now. Not a challenge. Just suggestions. Do you have any suggestions/recommendations that might fir into the categories above? Why not leave a comment below? And please, give it a little share, if that's your thing!

If you didn't find this piece useful, I hope you at least found it enjoyable. If you did, perhaps you would consider following/supporting me over at ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform for creatives, and all followers/supporters are very much appreciated!

Happy reading!

Reading Challenges

 

I have a confession to make.

I have never, in all the years that I have been alive, based my reading on any challenge, from the internet or otherwise. And, I think if, somehow, I found myself basing my reading on a reading challenge, I would abandon it sooner or later.

If you go to Google (or any search engine of your choice), and type the words "reading challenges" into the search bar, you will be presented with a list of book bloggers, GoodReads pieces, and more bloggers suggesting ways in which you can challenge yourself this year.

And, I don't get it.

Okay, that's not completely true. I do get it. It is a pretty great way to introduce yourself to new books, new genres, and keep you reading when you are tempted to say to yourself, "I don't have the time . . ." 

But, personally, I think these challenges would suck the joy out of reading. For me. Personally.

Just sayin'.

Now, I will take up book suggestions, and if I read an article in a magazine or online where a book is suggested by an author I admire, I will add it to my "Ooh, I must look into that book now!" list of potential purchases. I peruse the list of "Also by  . . ." list at the front/back of a book I have read and enjoyed. I read book blogs and . . . 

Well, you get the idea.

I find myself with plenty of ways in which to get intrigued by one book or another out there.

And, I don't think my bookshelves are dull and lacking in diversity because of it. If you take a look there, you will find crime and fantasy, historical fiction and historical fact, writers from different corners of the globe, popular science and poetry. 

I am not writing this to tear down reading challenges. I started writing this after reading somewhere, I forget by whom, in another bookish blog, I forget which one, that a blogger felt a little shame sometimes when they compared their progress with that of other readers.

When I read that it occurred to me that, when I have told fellow bookish people in the past that I love to read, I have found myself being asked, "Oh, how many books did you read last week/month/year?" To which I don't really know how to respond. I mean, I haven't been counting. I immerse my self in books for the pleasure, the joy, the experience, the time I get considering thoughts, feelings, and life experience from another's point of view.

I have nothing against reading challenges as fun inspiration for readers, a way to get you into books you might not otherwise have picked up, etc. But, if they leave you comparing your "progress" to that of others and feeling uneasy because of it, I say, don't worry about it.

What about you? Do you enjoy reading challenges? Are you undertaking a challenge right now? And, have you found a book that you might not otherwise have picked up because you took part in a reading challenge?

Let me know!

Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this post, or any of the others, please consider following/supporting me on ko-fi. Ko-fi is a platform for creatives, making it easier to find supporters and stay in touch with readers/supporters/fans. All support is appreciated, thank you!

Bookish Thoughts of a Rather Bookish Blogger . . .

 

I have sometimes wished that I were a little more 'sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll'. You know, a tad more exciting, a few exploits and stories to tell. Alas, I am much more 'books, snacks, and country walks'!

That's not a bad set of ingredients, if you should ever wish to make up a decent enough sort of fellow, but it doesn't make for the sort of person you'd want to find yourself stuck with at a dinner party. Or any sort social gathering really. Trust me on that one.

Let me tell you a few things about myself, to see if you agree. Firstly, I would love it if my waistline could decrease in circumference without my having to give up the foods I love, or engage in any kind of strenuous exercise. I love long walks, and dogs, and, being the creative thinker that I am, I love combining those two loves into, yes, you guessed it, long walks with dogs. And, finally, if you couldn't tell already from the bookish theme running throughout this lil ol' blog of mine, I have a thing for books too!

Like I said, not a bad set of interests, but they don't make for an interesting sort of guy either.

Anyway, I am not that great with people. When I find myself in conversation with one, I often come away with the feeling that at least one of us has been about as awkward as being hit on at a funeral. Usually I suspect that it's me. I wish I were awkward in a sort of flustered, yet charming, Hugh Grant manner, circa Four Weddings and a Funeral. But, I fear, I am more Steve Carrell in  The Office type awkward.

It's far better for everyone if I just stick my nose in a book!

A book is a dream you hold in your hands.

- Neil Gaiman

Neil might be right, and a bookish guy like me (the sort that almost always takes a book almost anywhere) can often appreciate the way in which both books and dreams, when you have finished with them and you've come back to the real world, can remain with you in a sort of hazy, haunting way . . . Problem is, I do sometimes much prefer the books and dreams, and try to get to them as much as I can, sometimes neglecting my real life concerns in favour of the dreams and literature. A hopeless bibliophile. A bookaholic. And, not only do I love to read, but I also harbour writerly ambitions! 

My loved ones are becoming concerned.

As I draw to the end of this little rambling reverie, I find myself wondering, "What the hell am I writing about here?"

And, to that, I say, "Uuuh . . ."

This is a rather a bookish blog, and I sometimes, sort of, think aloud here. Because, I think that the internet can be a great place to find friends, or a sort of community. It can be a place where you feel a little less alone. And, who knows, as you read these rather bookish thoughts, from a rather bookish blogger, perhaps you recognise a little of something in the words.

Or, maybe you don't. I dunno. But, either way, I hope you at least enjoyed the read.

If you did enjoy the read, please consider following/supporting me over at ko-fi - it keeps me in my writerly endeavours, and is very much appreciated!

PS - I am currently reading The Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow by Jerome K. Jerome, and yes, the title of this blog post is a reference to that work, if that's what you were wondering.

Read lots, go for long walks, be kind. See you soon!

Three Men in a Boat (To Say Nothing of the Dog!) by Jerome K. Jerome - a Review and Analysis

 

If you enjoy this post, there is a link at the end where you can purchase this book. 

Disclaimer: If you make a purchase through links in this blog, I may earn a commission from the sellers, but that impacts neither how much you are charged, or the content of this blog.

Feeling that they are suffering from almost any upset that you might care to mention, three affable chaps - Harris, George, and J. - decide that what they need is a nice and relaxing little holiday. Settling on the idea that they, and J.'s dog (Montmorency), ought to set off on a little fortnight trip along the Thames in a boat, the reader follows along on their comical adventure.

J. (a fictionalised Jerome K. Jerome), Harris, and George are all thoroughly pleasant English chaps, the sort that you might think typical of the late Victorian era. Some of the book is outdated now, but the humour and the warmth is still fresh and witty, and the three warm and comic characters we follow along the Thames are a joy to read. They are just exactly the kind of chaps that one might hope to have as friends and holiday companions. There isn't really a pragmatist amongst them, but that just means they are definitely romantic and idealist enough to make the journey enjoyable!

They really are a bit of a mess in there execution of the whole thing sometimes (therein lies the entertainment!) but they are an unforgettable crew. I really have enjoyed tagging along on their trip along the Thames.

Let your boat of life be light, packed with only what you need - a homely home and simple pleasures, one or two friends, worth the name, someone to love and someone to love you, a cat, a dog, and a pipe or two, enough to eat and enough to wear, and a little more than enough to drink; for thirst is a dangerous thing.

- Three Men In a Boat, Jerome K. Jerome, chapter 3

If the above quote ignites a little flame of pleasant appreciation within you, I think you just might have time and appreciation for our three river-faring protagonists. It speaks to me. But then, I am a bit of a dreamer too, for whom a lazy wending and winding along an English river in summer sounds an absolute joy. And, I would also fail comically in some of the practical requirements of such a trip so . . .

The three men of the title anticipate a journey filled with peace and quiet. However, they come up against the joys of the glorious English weather, having to endure their own cooking, and roughing it in the outdoors. Amongst other things. Jerome's humour is warm and his insights never mean-spirited. There may be the odd passage where you find yourself raising an eyebrow at the odd outdated idea or attitude, but other than that Three Men in a Boat is a warm and funny book with an appeal that has endured for one-hundred-and-thirty-two years for good reason!

If you've enjoyed this post, or any of the others, then please consider supporting me through my ko-fi page - it keeps me pursuing my writerly endeavours, and is very much appreciated.

If you would like to purchase a copy of Jerome K. Jerome's hilarious story of one of probably the worst holidays in literature, Three Men in a Boat, you can do so here, with bookshop.org, who support independent book shops.

Read plenty of books, be good, be nice to dogs, feed the birds, drink something nice. And, see you soon.

I'd Rather Be Reading . . .

 In which I consider a few typical day-to-day activities and ask myself, 'Would I rather be reading?'

This post is purely for the lulz, baby! I just take a few everyday activities, and then I ask myself, 'Would I rather be reading?'

So, let's crack on, shall we? I imagine we all have better things to be getting on with . . .

1. Sleeping

I do fight off sleep if I can when I am in the middle of a chapter and my eyelids begin to feel weighted. I am not the sort to stick a bookmark in the middle of a chapter. In fact, generally, I always finish a chapter once I have started it unless there are circumstances beyond my control which keep me from doing so. Death, illness, a natural disaster. Things like that . . . 

I would rather be reading. But, I am not quite at the point where I am keeping my eyes open with match sticks a la The Clockwork Orange to stave off sleep and read more.

2. Showering

When a reader has the opportunity, they should always pick a bath over a shower! You can read in the bath. You cannot read in the shower. You will have to trust me on that one . . . However, because of time constraints and because the shower is more environmentally friendly, a shower is, more often than not the preferred option.

If I say that I would rather be reading, you might think me rather disgusting (and be thankful that you are receiving my thoughts via the words on a screen, rather than face-to-face), but I assure you that I shower often and do not forsake personal hygiene for personal pleasure. Well . . . we all have pyjama days, right? I like to read in the bath if I can - I will take that over a shower ideally!

3. Watching a film/TV 

As book readers we have all said it - "I preferred the book". Still, there are times when I feel the need to relax in front of the television and lose myself in a good sitcom, drama, or documentary. I have my Netflix account just like everyone else and there are evenings when I've found myself saying, "Oh, just one more episode", knowing full well it will probably be about two more episodes. Maybe three.

I find myself watching less films as I get older. I don't know why. I think it's because of the time asked of me - a film of about an hour and a half plus runs the risk of losing my attention these days. However, I am still quite happy to immerse myself into a book for as long as it takes. So, all in all, I would rather be reading.

4. Eating

Like tiredness, I will ignore hunger to finish the chapter that I am reading. Sorry, body. That's just how I roll. I mean, what am I supposed to do, run the risk of getting stains on the pages? Put the book down? Pfft. You don't know me too well, do you?

This is a tricky one because I do like food. However, like I said I will ignore hunger . . . Plus, I am more likely to spend money in a bookshop (when I have money) than I am to spend it in a restaurant. So, yeah, I would rather be reading.

5. Sex

Sometimes men don't want to have sex. I know, right! But, it's true. Sometimes, we would rather be reading. Well, I would anyway. Also, with this entry I am stretching the term "day-to-day activities" here. For myself anyway. Without getting into it too much, I am pretty confident that I can go without this for significant stretches of time . . . We have been in the middle of a global pandemic for about a year now, so, there's that . . .

Anyway . . .

I would probably give up sex first before books but, who am I kidding, under the right circumstances, the book would fall to the floor and be forgotten about pretty quickly for this one.

6. Socialising

I love to see family, and I love to see friends, and I love to exchange messages with good and decent people. However, the parties that I find myself attending through little to no agency of my own - yeah, I might be considering whether or not I can sneak off to a relatively unpopulated area to catch up on my reading. And, just as a heads up, I do usually have a book about my person . . .

If it is good company, I can let my book go. If it's a party where I might be expected to socialise with people I don't know or have little in common with, I would probably rather be reading.

So, from this brief list, I can safely say, I would probably rather be reading or, if not that, accommodating reading into the experience.

I don't whether I should be proud of that or not. Probably not.

Anyway. Be nice. Be kind. Read lots. Listen to music. And, do you, everyone else is taken, as Oscar Wilde sort of said!