2009 reading tip for the year – dare to be different

Well, 2009 is here. I tried to get a somewhat early night but my two littlies took turns waking up crying right through to 3am. I hope you all had a fantastic night.

I don’t know how many of you tend to make new years resolutions, but if you do, how about adding this to your list:

In 2009, read one book that is different in style or genre to your usual reading.

So, if you haven’t read a kid’s or YA book since you turned 18, maybe do that. And don’t just grab an Enid Blyton because that’s what you remember reading before. Grab something new. Something you didn’t already read as a kid. Due to my job, this is what I read most of the time. I’m happy to suggest some titles, or pop over to BookBoy.net or browse my LibraryThing catalog for some suggestions.

If you’ve never read a good illustrated book, or a graphic novel, try one. Grab something by Shaun Tan, it won’t take long to read and seriously, the guy is a genius. I don’t know much about graphic novel writers, so am not much help there.

Maybe you’ve managed to avoid the piles and piles of crime novels published each month. Grab one. My reading in this area is generally restricted to Michael Connelly. If you would like some more suggestions, browse your local library or bookshop, or pop over to batgirl’s book blog. She’s been known to read a crime novel or two.

What about romance? Horror? Family saga? I think my “different” book will come from one of these genres. Maybe I’ll try Stephen King.

Get the picture? As far as a resolution goes, it won’t take long. It’s a one off and depending on what book you choose and how fast you read, it may take a few minutes or a few weeks on and off. But, and here’s the good bit, it might just open your eyes to a whole new area of literature that you would never have tried.

I’d love to hear about your plans and experiences if you decide to try this and feel free to ask for book suggestions. If I can’t think of anything, other readers may.

Other than that, I hope you have a wonderful 2009. May you meet some interesting people, read some really good books, and generally enjoy yourself. If you find that the year does start to drag on or get you down, then read two good books and call your doctor if pain persists.