If there is one thing I missed while being in school, it's definitely reading for pleasure.
I haven't been able to get into the groove of reading for years because each book was connected to a homework assignment - book reports, summer English Honors homework, chapter summaries, essay questions, papers, etc. As much as I enjoyed reading some of those assigned books, I felt that I was often looking for that deeper meaning, instead of just enjoying the author's written word, taking in each description and truly appreciating the masterpiece that was written. Probably why I'm not a huge fan of Steinbeck (memo to self: try re-reading his work).
This might sound crazy, but even reading Harry Potter seemed like an assignment. That was my fault though. In summer 2007, I was determined to read the whole series before the seventh one came out. I was a week off and then actually had to dive into the last installment. I really enjoyed reading the whole series, but at some points of that last book, I was just like, "Man, they're still in the forest. *sigh*"
Well, with school done (for now), I've decided to try hitting the books once again and just reading for the joy of reading!
The first book on my list was Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. I think I only have this book because I was supposed to read it for class but never got around to it. Just kidding. I started reading it but never passed the first two chapters because I was having difficulties following all the characters. Finally, I read passed those first two chapters and found it to be an interesting yet complicated story. The story follows and intertwines the lives of three generations of families living on the moors of England - lots of family drama, combined with romance, friendship and loyalty. The relationships of the characters can get confusing at times, but I liked it.
I definitely feel accomplished after reading it.
Looking on my bookshelf, I noticed that there's actually several books that I haven't even opened. I plan to read those books and then check out other books around the house. Yeah...basically going to go through all the books in the house like Matilda. Then it's off to the library! ;)
Speaking of the library, if you haven't already, you should check out this other blog I write for with my friends at UP: http://adventuresofrickandtarra.blogspot.com/.
I'm so excited for reading again! :D