I love reading. I love the escape, the imagination and I love the learning and exploration that can be gleaned from the pages of a book. And I love that it is for me. Of course, how to fit in any ‘me’ time is always a juggle. Most nights by the time I climb into bed I am barely past the first paragraph before my eyelids grow heavy and I have to admit defeat and go to sleep. But one of the things I enjoy most about reading is being able to talk about the book that I have just read. Whether it is fiction, fact, self-help or educational there is always something to be learnt from trying to express my own understanding of it, and hear what other people make of it too. I love to be challenged, to have someone say something that makes me think ‘I never thought of it like that’, and understand that while there is much that unites us, it is also ok to see things differently. We are all individuals and what works for some will not work for others, and vice versa. And isn’t that part of the joy of talking, of sharing, of listening and of learning? And so I am starting a Book Group, and you’re all invited. There is no pressure to read the same book as me, and there is certainly no expectation for you to agree with my thoughts on it. I intend to read a variety of books, but as this is a journey for me too I can not guarantee what they will be like, but that’s part of the fun!
Every month I will write about the book I have read, and let you know what my next book is so that you can join me on my journey. Feedbacks and comments please! Recommendations too – have you read a book that you think would help other people? Or have you had a book sitting on your bedside table that you’ve been meaning to read for ages? Being part of a supportive, caring and empowering community is what we at The Big Swell are all about. If you would like to write your own book review about what we are reading then email me at rachael@thebigswell.com to get it posted.
For my first book I thought I would start with some positivity, some inspiration, something to start 2012 as I mean to go on. You Can Live An Exceptional Life by Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson. Book review coming early February, so if you have time over the summer holidays then join me on this journey. Look forward to seeing you at Book Group!
