The need to read

On my walk up to campus this morning I realized that I haven’t been reading much lately. And you know what? I’m not well. I have to read. I’m beginning to think it really is some kind of physiological/psychological necessity for me, one of my daily food groups. Without books, I begin to shrivel up and waste away. ;)

Actually, I have been reading a lot online — I always do — but somehow that just doesn’t do it for me. Reading books is qualitatively (and substantially) different. Whatever need it is that books fill, the Internet doesn’t fill it.

The only time I’ve really had for reading is during lunch, where I’ve been reading Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird, which is a fabulous book (although be warned, there’s some strong language). And it’s good, but that’s only fifteen minutes a day or so, which is like drinking a gulp or two of water a day. I need an hour at least. And I have no idea how to fit it in, other than to stop sleeping. (And wouldn’t you know, that’s also a darn biological need.)

Anyway, I’ve got to go now because the progressive book sale is opening in two minutes and it’s down to 75% off today. Book-buying seriously feels like grocery shopping to me. And man am I hungry. ;)

Ben, if you’re looking for an awesome book try “Cranford” by Elizabeth Gaskell. She’s kind of a cross between Dickins, the Bronte’s and Austen - and what’s even better is that Cranford was just adapted into one of those amazing 5 hour BBC miniseries’ - and I just bought it - and it’s FABULOUS. Seriously. Every good British actor who wasn’t in Love Actually is in Cranford. Judi Dench leading the pack as the endearing Miss Matty.

I’d even let you borrow my copy if the bookstore doesn’t have it. Let me know!

Hear, hear. I read a ton on the internet, but it’s not nearly the same as marking up a good book w/ my highlighter and consuming a well thought out product of literature.

I’ve had more success finding cheap books (the kind I like to read, anyway) at DI than I ever did at the BYU sale. Anywho, good luck.

I agree about the Internet vs. books, and I feel it when I’ve been away from books for too long.

Take Joni up on her offer. It’s worth it. And when are we going to go to WorldWide Book?

Joni: I’ve checked it out (Cranford) and will be starting it soon. It’s on my desk at work. :)

Connor: Yeah, you’ve been hitting DI up a lot lately, I’ve noticed. :) (That’s where I got the bulk of my books.)

Andy: Amen. I’ve been reading more lately (books, that is) and it’s heavenly.

David: Hmm, sometime soon. But things are kind of crazy right now with directing the play and all. (When are you going to get on Twitter, by the way?)