I have always been a reader. I remember reading comic books under the sheets when I was supposed to be asleep. I remember reading a Nancy Drew book each day during summer vacations from junior high school. I remember binge-reading Peter Wimsey and Nero Wolfe and several Anne Rice sagas of unforgettable non-humans. So many favorites!!
My reading style has not changed much in the 60+ years since I learned to read. I still read almost every night (and many days, too). I still read mostly fiction. I still read mostly for plot. I still favor a long series that allows me to spend extended time with my fictional friends, and a high percentage of those friends are detectives (be still my heart, Guido Brunetti or Armand Gamache).
This week though, I am reading short stories by Roxane Gay. I learned about Gay and about the book from one of those “best books” lists. I think the recommendations were from authors who also own bookstores. The recommendation suggested that Difficult Women should be read slowly. Although it’s not my style, I have followed that suggestion, and it’s been rewarding. This morning I read “North Country,” and it was enough.
I am aware of by can’t understand people who don’t read. Hard copy or digital (I read on my laptop, using the Kindle app) or listening (I use Audible), they’re all reading.
If you’re looking for me, I’m probably in the garden, reading…