Getting Back into the Swing of Reading

Currently, this summer has given me time to find a connection. To life, others and more evidently, books. This resurgence of reading has fostered my creativity in many ways. It’s important to note that journeys aren’t about the destination; there is no end goal when it comes to reading. It’s not about the number of books, or how fast you read, even the difficulty or the genre. Ultimately, all it takes is for you to say ‘yes’.

My determination to read comes from my personal development, much like those experienced by the characters in the books I read, which produces a

connection between the reader and author. My journey to get back into reading started with It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover. This book is categorised as YA; however does explore some home truths. I chose this book because it reminded me of the novels I used to read, thus bringing back feelings of nostalgia. Coleen Hoover has a way of demonstrating the reality of conditional love within modern relationships and how sometimes love isn’t enough to stay. I have yet to read the prequel, ‘It Starts with Us’; however, I intend to. If you enjoy the development of the protagonists Lily and Atlas, the prequel centres around how they began.

I then decided to try a timeless classic: The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger, based on a Robert Burns poem, Coming thro' the Rye, meaning preservation of the innocence in childhood. Initially, I found it difficult to understand its meaning. Salinger uses this cryptic approach to convey topics which at the time were controversial. However, this coming-of-age novel explores the rejection of growing up. Overall, this book is a valuable criticism of adulthood and the superficiality of society. The language used by Salinger conveys the impact of mental illness, primarily depression. In which the pressures of adulthood are the root cause. This set a precedent for other authors to explore controversial topics which now have become more conventional.

Because of the recent exposure in the media, I had to try Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. This book captivated me from the beginning until the very end, leaving me longing for more. The novel tells the story of protagonist Kya Clark, who is referred to as the ‘Marsh girl’. The story centres around her ability to navigate the difficulties of growing up and adapting to what life harbours. Owens uses this novel to shed light on the impact of abandonment, destitution and ostracisation of society towards others. There is also a subtle undertone of what people are capable of if society pushes them to the edge.

I would very much recommend getting back into reading if it is something that is of interest to you. I have found purpose and some form of escapism through this journey so far, and I do not regret the decision to invest in these works. Ultimately, the morals of each book have taught me invaluable lessons.

I ask you to invest in yourself, pick up a book you never know where it could transport you. Whether that be reading around your degree or just for entertainment, I believe reading is an invaluable form of therapy. Having said that, the impact is different for everyone, but I have seen a change in my focus this summer. So maybe if you’re like me, you need time to yourself away from the pressures of being young and adhering to your own social conventions; ask yourself this: What do I really need, and will this contribute to my overall happiness? I know for sure reading has done this for me. More than alcohol. Nights out. Reading has forced me to turn inwards and listen to what my heart really wants. (As cliché as that sounds).