Challenging Myself To Read More

I used to read a lot of books back when I was still unmarried and with no bigger responsibilities in life. I averaged from 50-60 books per month. It is quite a small number compared to other bookish lovers I know. Some read like 100+ books per month and they even have the time to make reviews. 

Here came my little boy. In between feeding him and changing diapers, I tried to squeeze in a little reading time. I also considered it my own version of "ME" time.  

I get stuck with 24 books every year. It is the only number I can manage. I utilize Goodreads for my yearly reading challenge. It is less complicated to use and it also serves as my recorder of my reading accomplishment. 

I am guilty of being a slacker for the past 2 months. Brief vacation, sickness from injury for my first grader, the stress taking its toll on me, my son's school activity, the great sandstorm...the list goes on.  I only have 4 books read and according to GR, I am 2 books behind. At the moment, I am reading The Lanvin Murders by Angela Sanders. Now being aware of my sluggish reading tempo, I vow to enjoy this cozy mystery tale about Joanna Hayworth, her vintage clothing store and the murder brought about by this 1930s Lanvin coat. Fingers crossed, I can close this book in 2-3 nights.  

Usually, I have a tbr pile to choose from. I pick books from the bookshelves, whether the plot excites me, the author engages me or the book cover simply lures me. During the course of this challenge, the book-splurging (shopping), recommendations from bookish friends and some magazines, the discovery of a very intriguing title (the plot has to be interesting, too) from an obscure author...the pile grows bigger and taller. This thing happens all the time. So I decided not to be so strict in following my tbr. These days, I choose a book based on my moody self. What is the point of reading if it does not interest you at all? 

I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of any thing than of a book! -- When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library.  --- Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice