Books. They are one of the world’s greatest escapes from a crazy world. Perhaps that’s why The Washington Post recently stated “all reading is quarantine reading” (May 2020) after attempting to make book list recommendations for bookworms. However, there was just no point. They gave up on book lists and decided all books are game. Especially since COVID 19 has affected everyone.
Ever thought of how long it takes to write a book? There’s no doubt it is an investment of the author’s time and effort. Especially good books. So much talent and skill. It is definitely another reason to find our noses in one.
Getting lost in a riveting book might just be the cure from getting overwhelmed with the crazy world right now. Turn the television off. Set down the cellphone. Create your own atmosphere. (We just might be more in control of our lives than we think).
Then, open up a new book.
You’ll never know where it’ll take you.
The best thing about it? There are no limits.
The options are endless. Are you a train fanatic? A classic car guru? Are you a James Patterson or Stephen King fan? Perhaps your fancy is romance? Or possibly a comedy to make you laugh? Ever wondered how one of your favorite celebrities or icons became who they are? Google their memoir or biography. All types of folks write books, from lawyers to doctors, from teachers to kids, from military officials to presidents, and so on. There’s an author out there who has more in common with you than you think. You just haven’t found them yet. Authors are people, like us, after all.
Feeling lonely? Did you know that there are even social media book clubs? If you need help finding the right book, there are many online conversations about real people and their real opinions.
Are you not much of a Kindle reader? I get it. There is just something special about touching the actual pages of a real book. While book stores may not be an option for you right now, Amazon has been a popular source of receiving books by mail for many stuck in quarantine. Personally, I have ordered several books this year to escape and dive into. It’s almost therapeutic, temporarily forgetting about the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There’s isn’t much that beats a warm cup of coffee, curled up to a good book in the morning. Even if it’s just for a few minutes before the day begins.
Books can oftentimes make the best company, especially when we are feeling disconnected. Our imaginations take hold and our minds travel into another world, standing next to the author as the story is told to us.
If you’re not certain of the type of book to look for, here are some recommendations:
A feel-good book that will take your mind off of the world, you may try:
“Sam’s Letters to Jennifer” by James Patterson
If you’re looking for a good suspense (but not horror-written) book, you may try:
“Where are the Children” by Mary Higgins Clark
If you’re looking for a little more meaning and love memoirs, you may try:
“Breaking Night” by Liz Murray
(Homeless to Harvard)
If you need a good laugh and love the southern culture, you may try:
“All Over But the Shoutin” by Rick Bragg
(Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Another southern author who loves writing about never giving up (and fried chicken) is Sean Dietrich, his latest book “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” is popular.
If you’re looking for an emotional page-turner, you may try:
“Beautiful Boy” by David Sheff.
Books for young children (ages 3-8) have also become popular, especially “Pete the Cat” series. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series is popular books among eight to ten-year-olds. Then, of course, The Harry Potter series becomes popular among preteens and teenagers.
Which book will you begin to read?
And what type of adventure will you take?
