I was never much of a reader when I was younger, tending to use every excuse I could to get out of reading the prescribed school texts, but since starting university study I don't seem to be able to leave the house without a book in my handbag.
It all started with The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley. It was the first novel I had to read for university and it set me on the reading highway. We were given three weeks to read the book which I thought was ridiculous as it is quite a hefty book, but once I started I was totally engrossed by the gothic work.At high school when we were to study a book we would read the book, write down the basic plot themes and discuss our thoughts about the different characters and their experiences, which I always found boring (to be honest). I never understood how the teachers were able to stretch such bland discussion over a whole term. So, during my first study period at university, when I read that we were going to be studying The Mists of Avalon over six weeks I thought to myself, "What have I signed myself up for!?" What I didn't realise was how enthralling university level analysis of a book could be. Reading a book chapter by chapter, critically analysing the charaters and their relationships (and voicing our opinions of the characters, whether we liked them or not), breaking down the themes to compare and contrast them to issues relating to the time the book is set and when it was written, as well as dissecting the writing itself.
Ever since that first introduction to university level analysis I now find myself at the point of devouring a book a day (or two). Which is the reason I am starting this blog. I used to read a book and post my thoughts an Facebook for my friends to see, which would only ever return a comment or two, but now I realise that posting these thoughts on a blog allows for wider discussion with people of varying backgrounds.
So most days I will will post my thoughts on a variety of books and I welcome all discussion, thoughts and comments. I also welcome suggestions of books you feel are worth the read, whether that be because they changed your life or are just good for a laugh.
Thank you!
Bad teachers have a lot to answer for don't they, reading should be fun at high school too. I first read Mists of Avalon when I was still a teenager, a long time ago and loved it. I also go every where with a book in my bag but I am not a fast reader, so I am impressed with your almost a book a day. Good luck with the study and the blogging.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the luck!
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree, teachers do have alot to answer for. Although, in saying that, they are given some really average books to teach. Some of the books I remember from high school, even now, I would find a chore.
Most people who have read "The Mists of Avalon" have really enjoyed it. I think it is because it has a bit of everything; romance, history, war, magic etc. I was really glad, after I had finished reading it, that it had been chosen as a prescribed University text. If I hadn't read that book, I doubt I would be on here right now.