Wednesday, March 30, 2011.....
For readers that don't know me, I am a slow reader and linger on each and every word the author has provided. In the past, I've lost days because I read 24/7 until I finish the book I've gotten sucked into, and when finished, I mourn the loss of my beloved book.
However, I recently made some changes on how I read. One chapter every day, but what do you do when the book you're reading has extremely long chapters that wander aimlessly if you read the entire chapter in one sitting?
I admit, the book, when read in 5 page clips, is interesting. However, once I flip passed the 5th page, all words go back to the observation of frogs, birds and snakes. I hate when I like a book, but don't love it. I believe if I keep reading, it will get better, but I'm not a fan of describing anything ad nauseum. I like using my own imagination to envision the author's experience.
Yesterday, I used my sister, YogaGirl's way of reading books at a fast pace by skimming or gleaming over the words to get a general direction where the author is heading. In fact, YogaGirl's method is known by others and we have nicknamed her method of reading as "YogaGirling It" (we actually use her last name, but since I don't reveal names in my blog, YogaGirling It, says it all).
After I YogaGirl'd the last 20 pages of the book, I felt as though I cheated on my book. I really wanted to know the ending, wanted to see how the author would tie everything up in a fashion I'd prefer, but was so disappointed when it wasn't in a nice, neat package. I felt let down.
So, here's my question: Would you "YogaGirl" a book or just break-up with it and stop reading?
9 comments:
i have kicked many a book to the curb...usually in the first 3 chapters...if you dont get me, you lose me...sorry books....
Break up and stop reading. Then get drunk and find another book and get into bed with it fast.
Brian - The author sucked me into the book, but then began to wander and I wanted to see how it ended.
Mandy - OMG, I was laughing out loud when I read your comment....probably because it would work like a charm. :-)
I agree with Mandy. If it makes you feel better, give it to an underpriveldeged child who likes being bored.
Logical Libby - LOL.... I really do try to read for pleasure. I used to read contracts for a living so anything, other than the ingredients on a cereal box, is far more interesting than what I was reading. I have started a new book, The 19th Wife, and have heard good reviews about it.
I break up and get back together again a few times if it's a slow book, but I almost never cut to the chase and read the ending if I haven't invested my time in the entire book.
Cheers, jj
JJ - I have a strange habit of reading the last chapter 1st thing (except in the case of this book because there were only 6 chapters and it was too lengthy). I like how you break up and then give them another chance.
If I'm not invested in a book by page 30, I stop reading. I also avoid long paragraphs because it's usually just unnecessary descriptive crap, which I can do without.
I hate to not finish a book but if it doesn't really interest me then I will.
Post a Comment