Thankful for Reading

The Reader bloggers are thankful for the books in their lives that have touched them in different ways - sometimes practical, sometimes changing the way they look at the world, and sometimes opening themselves to new reading experiences. I asked them what book they were thankful to have read and this is what they told me.

Do Less: a minimalist guide to a simplified, organized, and happy life by Rachel Jonat is a quick and practical read on getting more out of life by reducing excess. Each chapter is well-organized and offers advice on such topics as de-cluttering your home, increasing work satisfaction, spending less money, and carefully selecting your commitments. In a busy and materialistic society, Jonat makes a good case for how minimalist habits can make a big impact. - Jannaya

I used to be afraid of starting books by Stephen King because I had always heard his name associated with terrifying horror stories—which at the time I wanted to avoid! But my husband insisted that I had to read King’s book of connected short stories called Hearts in Atlantis, and eventually I agreed—and ended up loving it. I was totally blown away by the first story in particular, “Low Men in Yellow Coats,” which didn’t give me nightmares so much as an eerie feeling that compelled me to keep reading. I had stumbled into a book of psychological fiction and suspense that made me want to seek out similar books when I was finished. This experience taught me not to write off entire authors or genres but instead to give them a try, which has been a valuable lesson in reading and in life. (And don’t tell my husband, but he was right!) –Ashlee

I picked up Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A year of food life in an airport on the way to a conference years ago, and I am still so thankful that this was the book I picked up. Perhaps it was the fact that I had very few other distractions over the next few days as I read the book, but I was profoundly moved by Barbara Kingsolver's resolution to consciously source her food locally for one year. Although I dabbled in gardening and was a CSA member (Community Supported Agriculture), this book inspired me to become serious about connecting to my community and environment through the food I consume.

The Little Prince is one of my all time favourite books. It is a novel that someone could read to you at 8 and you would get one meaning. Re-reading at various ages of your life will change the meaning and purpose that you take away from it. The relationships between each of the characters and the prince himself will give you life lessons that you might have never imagined. It was one of the things that make you go " Hmmm" long before the song came out.

There are too many books and so little time in my life, therefore, it is really rare that I will read a book more than once. Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman is the book that breaks that rule for me. I have re-read this very funny novel atleast 4 times. It seems that I am reminded of it every three years or so and I have to read it. The battle of good and evil never fails to amuse me. There may come a day that people may not be familiar with cars with cassette tapes and the music of Queen, but my god until that day comes I will always recommend this novel! - Rosemary

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates is an important book for this particular moment in history. Readers are divided: is it pessimistic or challenging? Did Coates compromise the text to appeal to a white audience or is he fleshing out of a new kind of struggle? To me, it's lyrical, emotional, and deeply meaningful. Read, reflect, and get inspired. - Zo

Part memoir, part guide, Count Me In by Emily White is a book about one person's search for connection and belonging in today's busy world. Reading this book showed me that there are endless opportunities for engaging with communities around us if one is willing to branch out and try new things - even if they don't work out exactly as planned. White articulates the feelings that many people have and shows that we're not alone - and for that, I'm thankful. - Jill