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Naturally it is all down to personal choice. Some of us read detective stories, some romances. Some like space or science fiction, some westerns. Some people like factual books rather than fiction. There are so many different genres, and so much variation in each category that there is something to suit every taste. And there are always some books we keep and some we give away.
It will probably come as no surprise to hear that my reading preference is romance. Yes, I read it as well as write it. My mother used to read romance so perhaps that’s why I’ve followed suit. But what makes a book a keeper?
It could be that the book was a gift and you don’t want to part with it. Or a prize. I have a Sunday School prize which is very precious. It doesn’t have any date in it but I imagine I was about thirteen when I received it.
Or maybe the story you’ve just read has struck a chord and you thought, yes, I’d like to read that again. Maybe it was entertaining. Even educational.
I can’t understand people who say they never read. They don’t know what they’re missing. To lose yourself in a good book, when time has no meaning, really has to be the most relaxing pastime ever. I know it’s not the same as holding a book in your hand but even reading on a Kindle or any other e-reader is equally as satisfying. And at least it doesn’t take up any space on your bookshelves. When you’re an avid reader space becomes a premium as I discovered when I recently revamped my study. I reluctantly got rid of a lot of books – welcomed by local charity shops – but I have no doubt that my shelves will fill up again!
I’ve just looked on those shelves. As well as fiction there’s a book of quotations, one on stain removing, an antiques guide, a book of names (very useful) – also, nestled amongst them is The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. Many others, too numerous to mention.
I know people look things up on the internet these days making reference books really obsolete. But are they? I wouldn’t like to think so. Would you?
I can envision a world where trees no longer grow. I live in an area where trees are harvested for pulp to make paper. As the climate changes, tree species are dying
ReplyDeleteThe good news is that paper can be made from more than tree pulp. The human race is innovative and determined. I think we'll have physical books for a while.
I certainly hope so, Ana. It would be a worrying world without trees.
DeleteI have masses of books, most of which I probably won't ever read again, but I don't want to throw them away, or even take them to a charity or second hand book shop. I still have some of my childhood books, and some that belonged to my mother, and even one (a very Victorian morality tale) that belonged to my grandmother!
ReplyDeleteI think most people who are readers (and writers) have lots of books. They're like old friends - too close to us to be given away.
DeleteI love books and no matter what happens with future technology, I'll always say there's nothing like holding a real book in your hands.
ReplyDeleteI have a personal library, and I love it. I have many, many books that are keepers.
I agree about holding real books. E-readers are convenient sometimes but it's not the same.
DeleteI keep most book that enjoy and give away to my library (for them to sell) those I don't. But if I'm not sure, I'll buy on my kindle.
ReplyDeleteI do download books to my Kindle, Jennifer, but only for convenience when I'm on holiday.
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