a pile of some of the books I've read in the past year
I’m throwing myself a little blogger’s birthday party because I began this site exactly one year ago today. I wasn’t sure if I would have the stamina to keep it going but now this is my favourite personal project. This seems like a good time to stop and assess why I’m putting so much time and effort into the blog. It was also a little over a year ago that I became a qualified massage therapist – a practice I’ve kept up on weekends and weeknights in addition to my full time weekday office job. I do love the sense of connection and satisfaction I find in body work. Since I don’t earn anything from doing this blog I should really concentrate my efforts into building my practice more and expanding my skills. The thing is I’m not much of a businessman and money isn’t everything. Honestly, I'd rather be lost in a book.
Reading and discussing books is nourishing for the soul. I’ve made some wonderful connections with other bookish folk. And I genuinely appreciate all the lovely people who read and comment here. The blog has opened up some wonderful opportunities for me. I now contribute reviews to the wonderful book site Shiny New Books and review all new Oates titles for the academic journal Bearing Witness: Joyce Carol Oates Studies. I’ve met some brilliant writers I really admire and have even cooked tofu for a current Booker shortlisted author at my house. But what I enjoy most is the world of books that I’ve been introduced to by reading other blogs, communicating with readers and gathering recommendations. There will always be stacks of new books I’m aching to read. Even if I feel overwhelmed at times by the amount of books that are added to my To Be Read List, this isn’t a contest. No one is keeping score. This is about reading with care, giving time to fully appreciate the author’s intention, reflecting what it means to me and sharing with a wonderful community of readers. By necessity, reading will always an alone activity but it's good to share feelings and thoughts afterwards.
Now tell me what you’re reading and what I should read next.
