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I’m a writer, yes, but I’m definitely a reader first. I read to escape into a story, I read to learn and I read to be entertained.
In 2010, I was introduced to a lot of new-to-me authors. I was wow’ed by the spare, engaging writing of Rebecca Stead in WHEN YOU REACH ME and blown away by the phenomenon which is THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins, not to mention the honest writing of Natalie Standiford’s HOW TO SAY GOODBYE IN ROBOT.
Looking back on 2010, I can honestly say that I did a LOT of reading but I have so many books left unread and genres, which I have yet to explore. So, in that spirit, instead of the ‘lose 10 lbs’ New Year’s Resolution I usually make, this year I thought it might be fun to draft up a couple of ‘Reading Resolutions’.
So …in 2011 I would like to:
1. Read an adapted fairy tale
In 2010, I really enjoyed A CURSE DARK AS GOLD by Elizabeth Bunce which is retelling of Rumpelstiltskin and PLAIN KATE by Erin Bow, which draws heavily from Russian folklore. This year, I’m looking forward to Joanna Karaplis’ FRACTURED: HAPPY NEVER AFTER? and will be on the look-out for more fairy tale adaptations to explore.
2. Read a steampunk novel
To be honest, I’m not entirely clear on what steampunk actually is. It sounds cool, though, so I think I’ll start with Arthur Slade’s THE HUNCHBACK ASSIGNMENTS. What are some other not-to-be-missed steampunk novels out there?
3. Read a graphic novel
I have never read a graphic novel. I need some serious help here. Suggestions?
4. Read an e-book
I’ve only ever read one electronic book, which was UGLIES by Scott Westerfeld but I read it on my computer screen. This year I’d really like the whole experience of reading an e-book on an actual e-reader.
5. Listen to more audio book series
I listen to a lot of audio books while training for half-marathons (walking marathons NOT running) because audio books are a great way to stay motivated. I can always walk an extra mile to get to the end of the chapter or to find out what happens next. This past year, I listened to the whole HARRY POTTER series on audio, plus about a dozen other stand-alone titles. I’m partway through THE HUNGER GAMES trilogy by Suzanne Collins at the moment (I’ve already read all three books but enjoy them even more on audio) and would love to start up another series once I’m done.
6. Read more humor
Gotta love a book that makes you laugh out loud. Rhonda Stapleton’s STUPID CUPID did that for me in 2010. In 2011, I’m looking forward to reading FAT VAMPIRE by Adam Rex and FOOD, GIRLS AND OTHER THINGS I CAN’T HAVE by Allen Zadoff. Any other LOL book suggestions?
There are SO many great books coming out this year, plus so many more on my To Be Read pile that I’m sure I’ll be kept quite busy. Still, though, I need a bit of help rounding out my list (suggestions, pls?).
So…does anyone else want to play? What are YOUR ‘2011 Reading Resolutions’?
Please share!
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Hélène Boudreau is the author of REAL MERMAIDS DON’T WEAR TOE RINGS. She’s never spotted a real mermaid in the wild but thinks they are just as plausible as seahorses, flying fish and electric eels.
In a fun promotion for the holidays, Sourcebooks/Jabberwocky is offering signed Real Mermaids Don’t Wear Toe Rings bookplates with proof of purchase. More info HERE.
*You can find Hélène on Twitter, Facebook and on her Website.
