Thinking back on my younger days, I often viewed reading as an endless endeavor, lacking the clear timeframes that television or movies (my then preferred entertainment) provided. The uncertainty of how long a book might take to finish made it seem more like a chore than something for pleasure.
My perspective began to shift during my freshman year of high school. Recognizing my interest in crime procedurals and mysteries, my mother recommended I give James Patterson’s Along Came a Spider a try. She encouraged me to read just one chapter… Initially, I was reluctant, but I agreed. To my surprise, Patterson’s chapters were super short and super engaging. After completing the first, I found myself wanting to continue, gradually becoming engrossed in the narrative. The structure of Patterson’s books made reading feel manageable… accessible even, altering my perceptions.
As high school continued, my respect for literature deepened and I found myself in the high school library quite often. In my junior year, I was approached by the school librarian/media specialist to establish a teen book club during lunch hours. Serving as the inaugural president, I led discussions that allowed me to connect with fellow students over shared literary interests. These interactions enhanced my empathy, active listening skills, and appreciation for diverse perspectives, underscoring the profound impact that literature can have on personal development.
Today, my literary preferences still remain rooted in crime and mystery genres, with authors like Walter Mosley, Alexander McCall Smith, G.K. Chesterton, and Agatha Christie among my favorites. I also explore biographies, essay collections, and fantasy, broadening my understanding of different writing styles and subject matters.
For those who find reading daunting, I suggest starting with subjects that genuinely interest you. Seeking recommendations from friends or family can provide personalized entry points into the world of literature. Additionally, authors like James Patterson, with their succinct chapters, can make the reading experience more approachable.
In conclusion, my journey from viewing reading as a chore to embracing it as a source of enjoyment and growth illustrates how finding the right material and engaging with a community of readers can transform one’s relationship with literature.
If you love reading, what was that first book(s) that sparked your interest? Let us know in the comments!
Written by:
Tyler Riley
Information and Digital Services Library Assistant
Hoboken Library Staff Picks 