Thursday, March 22, 2012

Post #2

A book is a new horizon. A new idea that you haven’t experienced or even looked at yet.  A book is something that takes your mind away for a while, so it is kind of like a place, except you’re still here in the flesh, just not necessarily the mind. A book, to me, is like gold to the ancient Egyptians. It has value and purpose, even though it doesn’t have the same price or cost, it still has the same demand and want, along with a great idea.
I like how Nancy Jo Sales (the second person) said it, “There's something about the physicality of a book, the way it looks and feels and even smells--the notes written in the margins--that makes it a living, breathing companion.”
I agree with her that books do have personalities (in a sense) and they are magical. I don’t however, like how Victor LaSalle described it when he said that books are stone tablets and that they are cheap and meaningless. Books mean a lot to people and he should know that! When you read a book, you aren’t just buying it to put it in a pretty pattern on your book shelf or to show off how long of a book you’re reading, you buy it to read it.
I also say that a book is way better and different than a iPad, Kindle, or phone because you get the book in the text the author chose, and with the cover around it, and you can feel the volume every time you hold to let you know how much the author put into it. There is something magical about books, it’s not just the story, it’s the feeling of holding it. People need books like they need food and water because they are magical. They keep you on the edge of your seat, they excite you, they entertain you, and they enchant you, which all start with the cover and the size, which you won’t see on an iPad or a Kindle.  

Friday, March 9, 2012

Post 1: Why I Read

I read because I can, and because I want to. When I read, it takes me to a new place where I can escape all of the world's distractions and problems. Although, this year the only books I have read have been books that are required for school. (EW). Hopefully though, this tri I can truly start reading more and start exploring new horizons when I read. When I was younger, the only reason I would read is because I was bored, or I had to. Now, I read all of the time even when I’m not bored. I really enjoy reading because it’s fun, and because it really helps you understand other people’s perspectives and point-of-view’s.
Also, when you read you can understand how to look at the world with new eyes and a fresh mind. Reading also is a way to really help your writing. I’m taking Creative Writing this tri, (because I know you all cared), and when I read different books it really helps me to try and format my writing with a new style that I never tried before.
While reading may not be fun for everyone, it can really help to pass time. When my family drives down to Memphis I can sit there and read in the back seat. It helps me get through the long eight hour drive that just about kills me, especially after a long day of school on a Friday.
Reading isn’t just about picking up a book and getting through it. It’s about exploring new boundaries, really getting to know new ideas, and about passing time when you really need it to go by fast.