I discovered a blog that posts a prompt about books and reading every Thursday; it’s called Booking Through Thursday. I don’t think I’ll be responding to it every week, because I don’t have good answers to all of the questions. But if I see one that interests me, I’ll write about it.
Today, the prompt is:
When growing up did your family share your love of books? If so, did one person get you into reading? And, do you have any family-oriented memories with books and reading? (Family trips to bookstore, reading the same book as a sibling or parent, etc.)
Reading is definitely in my family. For as long as I can remember my dad has been a habitual library frequenter. His brother, my uncle, is also an avid reader. I’m sure that my parents encouraged me to read, but I doubt that they had to try very hard in that area with me. I’m pretty sure I just took to it.
I do have one regret. One summer when I was in elementary school my dad decided to read aloud every day to my brothers and me. He chose one of his favorite books when he was a kid, Swallows and Amazons. Looking back, this should have been a special bonding experience for us, and a chance for my dad to share something that was important to him with us. But, we were kids and were not at a maturity level to appreciate that. My dad kept trying with us, but eventually he had to give up because we just wouldn’t pay attention. We never finished the book. Since then I’ve always wondered how the story turned out. I suppose that’s a mystery that is easily solved.
From BookGal:
I’m sorry your dad didn’t choose better. It’s a great reminder to let our kids guide many of their own reading choices.
From alisonwonderland:
it’s fun for me to hear about male examples of reading. neither my father nor my husband are readers. all the reading genes i’ve got came from my mom! :)
From Literary Feline:
We see so much more clearly when we look back on the past, don’t we? Most of the time, anyway. :-) You should see if you can find a copy of the book to see how it ends. I bet your dad would like that!
From Katy:
Maybe you should read it now and then go back and let your dad know. He seems the sort of person who would appreciate that sentiment.
From dad:
That book is now in Uncle David’s library kat, it’s part of an entire series written by arthur ransome. Uncle David and i grew up on them. We made a special trip to Lake Windmere in England to visit the arthur ransome museum and to see the lake that was the setting for so many of his children’s novels.
From David, The Rainmaker:
I remember that. I also remember not being able to sit through it because we would all get antsy. I suppose the only honorable thing to do, just like yourself, is finish the book!