Sorry, but it's not you. It's me. And it's just not working out.

[pbray]

Becoming a writer meant that I lost huge chunks of time that I used to spend reading. These days I buy far more books than I'll ever find time to read, and then must figure out which of the endless TBR stack to pick up whenever I find myself with a few free minutes.

Recently I tried to read a book written by a writer I'd met at a con--someone that I'd enjoyed being on panels with, who had interesting things to say. I started reading this book back in February. But I was making no progress. I'd read a page or two, and then allow myself to be distracted.

It bothered me because this was a book that I would have liked, once upon a time. It was well-written, and a type of SF that is increasingly rare. I kept trying to read the book because I felt I should like it, and couldn't understand why it wasn't captivating me.

Yesterday I gave myself permission not to finish it. I'm sure it works for many people, but it's not working for me. Instead I picked up the copy of Rob Thurman's (robgoodfella) Moonshine, and was immediately sucked in.

I still feel bad--I would like to have finished this author's book, and be able to honestly recommend it to others. But life's too short to drink bad wine, or to read books that don't speak to me.

Comments

[aeriedraconia.livejournal.com]

That is one thing I miss about being a teenager, I really enjoyed almost every book I read.
These days it's rare to find a book that can suck me in.
I'd not trade away the knowledge and life experiences I've gained but it does make finding a good read more of a challenge. :-)

[pbray.livejournal.com]

Exactly! Back when I could devour a book in a day, I slogged through books that I didn't particularly enjoy. Now I just don't have that kind of time.

[mizkit.livejournal.com]

Becoming a writer meant that I lost huge chunks of time that I used to spend reading.

Why did nobody *warn* us about that?

[pbray.livejournal.com]

It's a vast conspiracy.

[libwitch.livejournal.com]

I have throughly enjoyed both Moonshine and Nightlife. I was a bit surprised when I found Rob was short for Robyn!

I tend to try to stand by the wisdom of Nancy Pearl when it comes to - if you are under 50, read up to your age. If you over 50, don't read past 50 pages. If the book hasn't grabbed you by then, put it down. THere are too many good books in life to waste time reading ones you don't like. (http://www.nancypearl.com/) ()

[aeriedraconia.livejournal.com]

I usually give it 70-80 pages (if I am determined) but if I am still struggling to slog through it at that point I'll quit.

[pbray.livejournal.com]

Good words to live by.

I was just puzzled with this book since it seemed to have all the ingredients, so I kept asking myself "Why don't I like it?" Eventually I put it down to personal chemistry--another smart, funny, good-looking guy that I just really didn't click with.