Dec 6 2005

I hear many of you gasping…but wait! I used to be one of those people…”I hate to read!” The truth is that I really don’t hate to read. I like to read, and if given the right book, I actually love to read.

I’ve heard a lot of people say this same thing. They don’t enjoy reading. It’s boring. If you’re one of those people, ask yourself why. I’m betting it stems back to your school days, probably in English class when the focus was on literature and you were forced to read a book that you wouldn’t have chosen for yourself. Hemmingway, Shakespeare, etc. Some goofy British play that you didn’t understand and searched wildly for Cliff’s notes before the bookstores realized it was “that time again” and they refused to sell them to you. Is that why you hate to read? No? Well…it’s a good assumption at least, and that’s the reason that I thought didn’t like it.

I’m going to keep this short and sweet. If your feelings are echoed in the paragraph above, I urge you….no, I COMMAND you to head to your local library, bookstore, Half.com or Amazon.com and find a book that sparks your interest. Don’t find one in your parent’s junk drawer, it’s likely there for a reason. Ask your friends, family and coworkers about their faves. To make your choice a little easier for you, your Mommy Haven gal pals are going to start listing Titles/Authors of books that they love. Pick one!

Because I’m someone that used to “hate” reading, I’m going to make this bold statement. Saying that you hate to read is ignorant. You’re cutting off an entire society filled with knowledge, laughter, experience, sympathy, love, support…you name it!

I’ll start the list and likely add more later:

My #1 favorite:

Forever Amber by Kathleen Windsor
This is an historical novel set in turn of the century England.  Don’t let the “historical” part scare you, this is a classic that you won’t be able to put down.

Wanderers Eastward, Wanderers West by Kathleen Windsor
Another historical novel set in the late 1800’s during the early gold rushes in Montana.  Another classic, this author is amazing when it comes to details and making you “know” the characters.  You’ll miss them when the book is over.

Then, I’ll read anything by Mary Higgins Clark or Carol Higgins Clark; they write mysteries that are very quick reads, great for a long car ride or flight.

Those are my favorites, though I’ve read many fabulous books.