The Book Jar
I have a book problem. A very big book problem. An “I have filled my parents’ basement with storage containers full of books that I don’t have enough bookcases to house” kind of problem. And the reality is that recently my reading habits have not been able to justify the book accumulating habits I have. So, as already covered in my New Years Post, this year I resolved to read more.
On that front, so far, so good. I’ve finished 6 books already over the month of January (although in the interest of full disclosure, one was a silly Doctor Who novel that took a total of maybe 4 hours, and two were Barefoot Gen – which are I guess what you would call a graphic novel over here in the US). But I’ve been running into a bit of a problem in between books: how do I choose the next one? I have so many books I have yet to read… deciding what’s next is a bit paralyzing.
So here’s what I did. I came up with a list of the books I’d like to read this year. Narrowing down my collection to a list of 50 or so is way easier than settling on just one, after all. And then I wrote them all down on slips, folded them up, and the Book Jar was born. Now, when I can’t decide what’s next I just pull out a slip, and BAM: decision made.
Here’s what’s next on the docket. I started it on Sunday, and so far, it’s pretty astounding.
Read anything good lately? If so, share in the comments!
7 Comments
bluchickenninja
I am far too lazy for that. I just pick the book that is closest.
Magpiemakingdo
I wish I could do that! I always end up paralyzed with indecision…
Timiae
Read more is something that I also want to do this year. I used to read all the time, but these days I rarely do. I got a Kindle Fire HD for Christmas from my inlaws (yay! and totally surprised!), so now have no excuse because I can read in bed without waking my son (we co-sleep). I am embarrassed to say that I have only read one book so far, the first in the Hitchhiker’s Guide series, but it’s better progress than what I’ve made in the past year.
I love your book jar idea. I think I’ll try something similar. Most of my actual books are packed away in the attic (space issues in this house), but I do have a few in my nightstand drawer and of course many on the kindle.
Magpiemakingdo
The Kindle is such a great invention… Particularly if you don’t have a ton of space. I was for a moment contemplating switching completely as I lugged a bit of my collection up the 4 flights of stairs into this apartment and then couldn’t find a place for them. Also, don’t be embarrassed! I don’t think I’d even be able to get one done ALL YEAR with a toddler running around. I don’t know how you do it!
withluckblog
This is a good idea! I have so many books on my shelves that I’ve never read. Growing up you could never find me without a book, but now with school work and work-work I haven’t really been reading for myself.
Magpiemakingdo
It’s astounding how quickly life gets in the way. I was the same way growing up… now if I get 15 minutes every couple of days, I count myself lucky!
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