I love books.
I guess that comes as no surprise since I'm a writer after all, and a love of reading does come with the territory. But you'd be surprised how many authors just don't read.
There are many reasons for that, the biggest one probably being that they don't have time. When you're a writer, you want to devote all your free time to your craft. And that often leads to a rejection of the other pleasures in life.
But I often wonder, when I hear another author say that they don't read, how do you do it? How can you be a writer and not read? It makes no sense to me.
I know that personally, my writing suffers if I don't make time to read. The words are flat and boring, and the plot lacks inspiration. Reading is food for the writer's soul. It's inspirational to see what another author can do with words. It's learning, it's fulfilling, it drives my passion for writing.
So I ask you authors, do you read? Do you read in your own genre or do you go elsewhere?
8 comments:
I read like crazy! Not as much as I did before I started writing (when I once made a New Year's resolution to read 5 books a week and exceeded the goal), but I still read at least 2 books a week.
I read a lot in the genre I write (m/m, of any type), but I also throw in a bit of m/f, menage, and even nonfiction. I also read young adult because of the day job (teaching middle school).
Honestly, I don't understand how anyone--not just authors--can not read. Reading is my escape. I've gone to many wonderful places and met intriguing people in books.
I don't read as much as I used to but I still read. I read all genres and from romance to erotica, it depends on my mood.
I so love to read! I write erotic romance, so that's what I like to read, but I also love to read mainstream romance, too. My favorite authors are JR Ward, Kelley Armstrong, Kerrelyn Sparks, Lynsay Sands, and Kat Martin!
*hugs*
Paige
I read more now as a reviewer, but it's still not enough. I got yelled at, end of last year by Cyn beause she said I was running on empty. NOw I'm writing a totally new story independent of any series I've started and it's FUN!
I do read. Not as much as I'd like to at the moment. But the thought of sitting down, glass of wine in one hand and a good book in front of me sounds - niiiiccceee.
Hmmm, making me think of taking a day off. Is that allowed? *Grins*
I'm a slow reader and writer, so if I want to promote and get product out, I have to sacrifice and give up other pleasures such as movies and most reading. However, I still read the newspaper and manage to read about a book a month.
For me reading is not something I have time for anymore. An occasional read is about it. I do miss it. But don't believe it makes me personally a better writer. My writing is in my head~~my imagination. Reading what other authors write doesn't really influence me so much. Great post, AVA.
I read romance and erotica. I'm a book aholic...I currently have about over 300 books to read. They are boxed up waiting for me to get to each book...
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