Friday Follow (5)

Q. Talk about the book that most changed or influenced your life (was it a book that turned you from an average to avid reader, did it help you deal with a particularly difficult situation, does it bring you comfort every time you read it?). 

I can think of two books that really hit me and made a lasting impression on me.  The first book was:

I distinctly remember when I first read this book in middle school.  My teacher gave me extra time towards the Accelerated Reading goals because I was willing to try and tackle such a long book (it was rated as only an 8th grade reading level).  And I loved it!  This book is part of why I love to read series or longer books.  The author has the opportunity for character and plot exploration in the longer lengths that is just not possible in shorter books.  Done well the result can be absolutely stunning writing and oh-so memorable. 

The second book was:

I fell in love with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth first through the A&E version of the movie.  After watching that movie three times in one weekend (no I am not kidding), I had to read the book.  And I read it in the summer--so it was not even a required book when I read it.  The next year in school, my English teacher selected it for one of our books and I could not believe my good fortune at getting to read this book again--this time for credit.  It was my idea of good fortune!  And then I wrote a paper on the book where I really dissected the instance of pride and prejudice in the book.  And getting that close to the text, to the story, only made me love it more.

I almost majored in English in college because I loved to read so much, but when I looked at career opportunities I decided that communication was better.  In some ways, I am happy with my decision because reading has remained something I do for fun, for relaxation, for pleasure.  I never got burnt out by having to read books I did not want to over and over again (textbooks excluded).  But sometimes I wonder because I love getting into a story--really dissecting the characters, the plot, the choices the authors made. 

I think that is why I love participating in the blogging community so much.  It has allowed me to enjoy the best of both worlds!