Friday, August 5, 2011

Books 'r Us

'Classic.' A book which people praise and don't read.
Mark Twain 

One of my many pleasures is to wander through the bookshelves in my home.  "What shall I read today?  This new one?  Or perhaps a past love?"

Nine times out of ten, I choose a past love.  I have particular favorites, ones I read every year.  Jasper Fforde's 'Thursday Next' series is fantastic when I'm in the mood for a bit of silliness.  'Gospel' by Wilton Barnhardt is another favorite, one I wish more people would read when they have a need for throught-provoking prose and, yes, laughter.  

With this blog, I will recommend books that I have always loved, and even some new ones that reading groups would enjoy.  

I have worked in the book trade for 25+ years, and my most favorite aspect of the job has always been one-on-one recommending.  If I love a good story, I will recommend it.  If I have had a 'so-so' experience with a book, I will recommend it with reservations.  Here's my best advice:  When a bookseller puts a book into your hands, take it, go sit down, and start reading the first chapter.  If it captures your interest, it's the book for you.  However, not all books will do that.  When I first started reading 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', I put it down numerous times.  But because I was warned about the huge backstory, I remained faithful to the story and once I hit a certain point, the story took off.  I've been a fan of that series ever since.

So, trust your bookseller.  Talk to one in person.  Explore the stacks and ask for help when you need it.  Don't be shy.  We are here for you, as you are here for us.

One last word:  Visit your local bookstore and library.  Give them your business.  Our cities and towns are in dire need of such places.  We, the reading public, need to reconnect and step away from computers for just a few satisfying moments and get in touch with real books.  

1 comment:

Unknown said...

I agree! There's nothing better than holding a real book and that satisfaction of turning to the next page. Abby feel's the same way, she's a HUGE reader. She read the Hunger Games book we bought from you at Borders, and I think Eli read it also. I had also bought The Outsiders, hoping Eli would love it as much as I did. At first he didn't care much for it and I kept asking him what he thought and always got the same answer, "It's ok". I waited a few months later and finally asked, "Have you tried reading anymore of The Outsiders?" (I mean, come on, it's a pretty easy read and not a thick book at all) He told me he was already done, and that he really liked it. Then I prayed he would never watch the movie, as I feel the movie was such a huge disappointment.
I still vote for you opening up your own bookstore. :) I know it's hard during these economic times, but I'm hoping it will happen one day.