Too many books, not enough time …

Yeah, I know that’s a statement that any serious reader will be nodding at … but they’d also be saying “what’s new?” And I’d be agreeing with them.

Even a voracious reader doesn’t ever catch up, because there’s so much more out there – classics that you never read as a child, new genres you have only recently discovered, and so many new books published … every single day.  So what’s a girl to do? Weep at the fact that she’s short of time – except when it’s to wonder whether her reading mojo may be waning somewhat?

In many ways, it’s been a good year reading-wise. I’ve taken a look at my stats over at Goodreads and the year started off with a bang with a couple of sold 5-star reads. OK, there’s been some that truly disappointing reads – some I’ve given 3-stars to whilst feeling they only deserved 1 or 2. My reasons are complex but you can visit my book rating post if you’re interested to know more.

Books are usually a refuge, a place I go to when things are really tough and I want to hide away from the world. That said, it’s surprising that I don’t always choose comfortable, light-hearted or frothy reads then, I still like to read what I like. It’s the great writing and/or characterisation that allows me to inhabit their world and leave mine behind.

But even more than usual, the real world has keep on nagging at me and demanding my attention. Would it be entirely self-indulgent to take a reading holiday? No, no, no, I don’t mean a holiday from reading, rather a holiday for reading.

I see myself curled up in front of a real fire, on a cosy sofa, mug of tea in hand, cat by my side, and wearing my Dad’s old cardigan and fat socks. Elegant eh? Yup, that’s me … But the craving to achieve that image is growing … and in all honesty, I’ve realised it’s not just about the books. This is why I’m struggling with reading at the moment, because my life is telling me to get on and sort out my future … and no amount of reading is going to be permitted to divert me from it.

But having browsed a few reviews at Goodreads, I know the love hasn’t gone, because I’ve just added another half dozen books to my “want to read” list. I may miss my self-appointed reading target for the year, but it’ll only be because I’m trying to focus on the big stuff – you know, life, and making it more the one I want to live, rather than just seeking escape from it.

© Debra Carey, 2017