I love to read. I have started many books on many different topics. Do you have a process for finishing one book before you start another, or do you think it’s ok to read many books at a time?
Dear Bookworm,
Nothing is quite the same as a good book. I like to hold the book in my hand, but I also like to listen to books. What is your favorite way to read? Do you do all three: read the book, read online, and listen to the book? Are you a fiction or nonfiction reader, or both? I have a stack of books on my nightstand and more books in my Audible account than I will probably ever get to. For some of you that might not know, Audible is, I think, an Amazon program that allows you to buy and listen to most books through your phone or computer of choice. Just a side note, one of my favorite books that I have ever listened to is “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey. A special treat is that it is read by Matthew. If you know you know. It’s pretty much about his life.
Boy, I sure can digress. Do I think it is a problem if you read multiple books at a time? As always, you are the boss of you. Does it work for you? Do you enjoy reading this way? Do you finish the books you want to finish? If something is not broken don’t try to fix it.
Some people might argue that too many books might keep you confused and unsure what to pick up next. Again, you are the only one that can answer that for you. For me, I do find that, although I have many books going just like you, there are times I feel distracted by it and see it as my inability to focus. If you find yourself in this dilemma, you might try putting some away and finishing up some you have started. I personally read mainly nonfiction so I can sometimes find myself unsure of where I got a specific piece of wisdom from, but that doesn’t seem to be a big problem for me. Reading too many books may seem a little like attending a party where too many people are all talking at once. I assume you are not completely happy with this issue or you would not have written to Aunt B, so here are some strategies that might help you.
Organize your reading. Keep one book that you read at bedtime and keep it on your nightstand. A different book if you are blessed to be able to read during the day, maybe kept at your desk. You can divide your reading by type - read fiction at bedtime and non-fiction during the day. Any schedule that works for you is good.
Keep some notes on what you are reading. This way you can look back and refresh yourself where you left off from a specific book.
Do set limits. If you have five books going and it is overwhelming pull it back and try less numbers. Trial and error can help you find the ideal number of books for you.
Set reading goals for yourself. Finishing a certain number of books every week or month can keep you on target with your reading.
Rotating the style of books you read can keep you more interested to possibly finish before starting a new book.
In the end, whether you are reading one book at a time or ten, the key is enjoyment. Books are our friends, portals to other realms. If you are enjoying the journey, then your path is right for you. If you are feeling bogged down by them, try some of the strategies above. After all, reading is not just about finishing books, it’s about the adventure they offer along the way. Just keep reading.
Love,
Aunt B
If you would like to send Aunt B a question please email your question to news@ forneymessenger. com.
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