At the start of a new year, when we're thinking about reading resolutions and new releases and unwieldy to-be-read lists, it feels like the right time to be reminded of what it's all about: finding joy and community through reading.
Lately, I have seen several lists going around on social medial of books that authors believe you *have to* read. Some are lists you should read to your child by a certain age. Others are lists of books every little girl should ready. There are lists of children's books adults should read.
I love lists. I am a list keeper. I have shared in this column lists of books that I would like others to consider reading. I keep lists of books I want to read. I keep lists of books I have read.
So today, I sat down to write my list of *have to* read books, except the more I thought about it, the more I don't want to say "you have to read these books." I would love for many of you to at least check out the books I recommend, but I want reading to be without pressure. I want to introduce you to great books. I want you to take suggestions from this column and create your own book lists.
Instead of a list of specific books to read, today I just want to say, please read.
Read any book that makes you happy.
Read a book in a new genre.
Read a book you have been meaning to read and that has been sitting on your "to be read" list for months (or years).
Read an old favorite that you have read 20 times already.
Read a book your child recommended to you.
Read a book your best friend says changed her life.
Read a book I have mentioned on this column in the past.
Still don't have a book you want to read? Email me at jessicac@hamlethub.com, and I will recommend a few of my favorites.
My list today is very simple ... READ. And if you want more on that list, reply to this and let me know what book you decided to read.
This piece was originally published on April 8, 2016.
D