from my bookshelf.

I used to read novels every day.

When I was young, I spent much of my time reading. I tended to be withdrawn, had few distractions, and plenty of time. I read for hours on end. Sometimes, if the book was short enough, I read until it was finished.

Being in the middle of a good book is one of the best feelings. Waking up and knowing that you can go back to whatever story your reading is thrilling.

I moved back-and-forth several times in high school. Being able to take my favorite books with me helped me find familiarity in a new place. If I was ever homesick, I’d pick up my worn-out paperback Mara, Daughter of the Nile or Jane Eyre and escape there for awhile. I had a collection of about five favorite books that I re-read countless times.

I don’t read nearly enough these days. I usually tell myself that if I have time to read, I should do the required reading for school. But that’s just an excuse. There are too many distractions. Like the time-sucking internet.

I wish I could get back into the habit of falling asleep to a randomly plucked book from my bookshelf.

Maybe I will.

— Cyndie