As a child I used to read a lot. In elementary school, they’d give awards to kids who read the most books each year, and I was often one of the winners. But by high school, it became much harder to read what I really enjoyed. That’s not to say that I didn’t appreciate Othello, The Jungle, or Babbit, but they weren’t my first choice.
College was filled with required readings, as well. And then came my entry into the working world. Often my leisure time was spent reading to get ahead in my career. I loved school so I often took classes and read the books associated with the syllabus. Learning was integral to who I was, who I continue to be. But I rarely allowed myself the luxury of reading something just for the fun of it.
In the last several years, as I’ve weaned myself away from my career and found some of my other leisure activities difficult to do – creating art, attending events with crowds, or socializing in restaurants – I’ve decided to read more. It makes me feel like a kid again, back when I had oodles of time to read and not worry as much about the time spent. And my reading interests tend to be more varied now than when I was younger.
However, I have discovered obstacles to reading. A lot of print books are too darn heavy and difficult to maneuver. Until I purchased my first Kindle, I avoided reading. Not only were my eyes fatigued, but just holding a book and turning the pages proved to be exhausting. But the Kindle – and I suspect other electronic readers – are a boon for people with weak arms and hands.
If I am in a weakened state I now have the option of listening to an audio book either on my iPod or my computer. I get excited about reading. I like to have a few books in different modes going at once. I’m especially fond of Goodreads.com, where I maintain a list of books I’ve read, am currently reading, and want to read. Plus, it’s a social network, so you can connect with friends and see what they’re reading, as well.
While reading tends to be more of a solitary experience, there can be a social angle as well. Three years ago I started a book club at my house and invited a variety of friends. We meet monthly and there’s a theme. You can read your choice of fiction or non-fiction, as long as you relate the book to the theme. We also have a potluck. It’s a tremendously satisfying social activity I can still partake in.
In this podcast you’ll hear about my book group, now in its fifth year, and how it helps me with social support and brain health. There are also two guests.