'It is clear that the books owned the shop rather than the other way about.' - Agatha Christie
Toppings & Company Booksellers, Bath
(photography by @readwithmims)
New account @jemima_reads
Reading is one of the most rewarding habits you can start. However, I've often seen a lot of misconceptions about books. I'm not someone who's always been a bookworm. I thought I would make this little space to dispel some myths about reading.
1
"Readers don't have reading slumps"
If anyone ever tries to tell you that reading slumps are bad or not normal, they are completely wrong. You are a human being, not a machine. Often when I finish a scrapbook, or had a long day at uni, the last thing I want to do is pick up another paperback. Be patient with yourself. The books on your shelves are not going anywhere. You don't have to read 24/7 to consider yourself a bookworm.
Reading should bring you joy, not be considered a chore. If you feel like you need to take a break, that's fine!
II
"You shouldn't DNF books!"
DNF simply stands for 'Did Not Finish. As I have stressed before in regard to reading slumps, reading should be an activity you enjoy. Therefore, it's ridiculous to insist that you have to finish a book you can't stand. If you hate the book, it's fine to DNF it! It does not matter how many awards it's won, or how much your friends LOVED IT! Everyone has their tastes and if you aren't enjoying the read, don't make yourself finish it.
If you hated the book, you should just donate it! Another bookworm may love the story.
I did a more detailed post on DNFing books if you are interested - you can find the page here
III
"Only physical books count as reading."
All styles of reading are valid. Whether you prefer physical copies, ebooks or audiobooks, there are many wonderful ways to enjoy a story. You don't need to justify your reading style to anyone. I always have an audiobook that I listen to in the evenings and enjoy my paperbacks.
I think it's awesome that there are so many different styles of reading now - it makes books much more accessible. Find a reading style you enjoy and don't feel like you need to explain your preference to others.
I'm happy to add more myths here if you guys found them useful. If you'd like to stay up to date with my current reads, you can find me at the following sites:
Happy Reading!