This was such an enjoyable read and very relatable, thank you Alicia and Jam!
I learned to DNF early on, and am an extreme mood reader. Most often a DNF is not permanent but only for the time being, and it helps me find the right books at the right time - and results in at least 3+ reads like Jam mentioned.
Over the years, I've grown as a reader by not only being more open to various genres (outside of classics and nonfiction) and recognizing that there's always something to learn in any book really, but also having a more enriching reading experience by interacting and engaging with other readers through virtual/physical book clubs, bookish chats, and of course here on Substack!
That’s true—a DNF doesn’t have to be forever, and I forget that too often.
I’ve found lots of books through my little book club with friends too, and I’m starting another mini one soon that I’m excited to find new ones through.
This was really interesting, Jam, and I love the way you've grown as a reader. Like you, I could never DNF a book, but once I learnt to let go (accepting it as a sunk cost), it was easier. I am so with you on rereading books too, but I do face tough choices when it comes to rereading v making a dent in my massive TBR pile. Speaking of which...
I wish I had your discipline with your fantastic attitude to your TBR list and books on sale. You hinted about not liking digital books with the ARCs, but I don't mind ebooks. My problem is that I have bought so many books on sale for my Kindle that I now have like 60+ unread books on there, and it's super overwhelming. I can't resist - when I see them lowered to 2.99 I'm a sucker and get them. I've also got plenty of physical books to get through. My reading challenge this year was to focus on not buying any new books and getting through my existing TBR with one exception - I was open to recommendations from fellow Substackers (and Alicia recommended Pachinko, which I enjoyed).
No need to thank us for the generous attention span, this was a joy to read and the words just flew by - thank you! (I shall now go and check out those posts Alicia highlighted)
ohhh what a massive TBR. I think what helped me with the book sale problem was that I wasn’t always good with money and when I decided to make changes to my financial life, my “on sale” problem was one of the things I need to let go. Like if something is on sale, it doesn’t always mean you can save on things because sometimes you’re never gonna use it.
Ahhh the rereading vs TBR problem. I always struggle with that even now. But good luck with your no spending reading challenge!
This was such an enjoyable read and very relatable, thank you Alicia and Jam!
I learned to DNF early on, and am an extreme mood reader. Most often a DNF is not permanent but only for the time being, and it helps me find the right books at the right time - and results in at least 3+ reads like Jam mentioned.
Over the years, I've grown as a reader by not only being more open to various genres (outside of classics and nonfiction) and recognizing that there's always something to learn in any book really, but also having a more enriching reading experience by interacting and engaging with other readers through virtual/physical book clubs, bookish chats, and of course here on Substack!
epppp I’m so excited to attend my local book club’s monthly meeting. I hope I don’t back out last minute.
I hope you go!! Please share with us what happens hehe.
I will, if I do!
@Jam Canezal did such a great job!
That’s true—a DNF doesn’t have to be forever, and I forget that too often.
I’ve found lots of books through my little book club with friends too, and I’m starting another mini one soon that I’m excited to find new ones through.
Amazing first guest post! You couldn't have picked a better contributor. Love this, thanks Alicia and Jam!
Yes! I’m really honoured that @Jam Canezal chose to share her words on my publication. <3
Thank you, Kolina! 💕
This was really interesting, Jam, and I love the way you've grown as a reader. Like you, I could never DNF a book, but once I learnt to let go (accepting it as a sunk cost), it was easier. I am so with you on rereading books too, but I do face tough choices when it comes to rereading v making a dent in my massive TBR pile. Speaking of which...
I wish I had your discipline with your fantastic attitude to your TBR list and books on sale. You hinted about not liking digital books with the ARCs, but I don't mind ebooks. My problem is that I have bought so many books on sale for my Kindle that I now have like 60+ unread books on there, and it's super overwhelming. I can't resist - when I see them lowered to 2.99 I'm a sucker and get them. I've also got plenty of physical books to get through. My reading challenge this year was to focus on not buying any new books and getting through my existing TBR with one exception - I was open to recommendations from fellow Substackers (and Alicia recommended Pachinko, which I enjoyed).
No need to thank us for the generous attention span, this was a joy to read and the words just flew by - thank you! (I shall now go and check out those posts Alicia highlighted)
ohhh what a massive TBR. I think what helped me with the book sale problem was that I wasn’t always good with money and when I decided to make changes to my financial life, my “on sale” problem was one of the things I need to let go. Like if something is on sale, it doesn’t always mean you can save on things because sometimes you’re never gonna use it.
Ahhh the rereading vs TBR problem. I always struggle with that even now. But good luck with your no spending reading challenge!
thanks Tracy. It was a game changer for me.
Ooh what notes do you find yourself making?