Tags
I’ve mentioned here and on Twitter that I’m not feeling so great. I’m having a flare-up/autoimmune response in the joints of my hands. It sucks. Even when I’m not doing anything strenuous with my hands they ache like hell. But it’s not only pain I’m dealing with, it’s also the fatigue that goes with autoimmune illness. I’m more than just exhausted. I feel run down no matter how much sleep I get and my concentrations and memory have left for the Bahamas. Some days are better than others, and some days I’d rather forget entirely. Creating art is at a standstill and writing is slow going, and if those two things aren’t bad enough I’m having issues with what to read.
I tried reading Fire Upon the Deep, but my brain almost atrophied. I started Harbor, but couldn’t keep my eyes open. I’m currently trying to read Dark Inside, but every chapter is from a different character’s viewpoint and there are a lot of characters.
Ugh…
I need a book that is fast paced, character driven that I can escape into but won’t strain my brain. Here is a list of all the books decorating my office shelf and floor (I have other books in other rooms but these are my more recent purchases). Anyone have any opinions on what I should read or avoid?
After the Apocalypse by Maureen McHugh (short story collection)
Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffeneggar
The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch
Hull Zero Three by Greg Bear
Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris
Directive 51 by John Barnes
Spectyr by Phillipa Ballantine
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Autumn: The City by David Moody
Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
Supernaturally by Kierstan White
After looking at my list I’m leaning toward Supernaturally. The first book, Paranormalcy, was so much fun to read–one of those books you zip through.
Any thoughts?
Amanda Makepeace's Imagination Run Amok 
I’d go for the short story collection – that or something you know is light and fun and not too demanding. Or maybe just watch movies for a while until you feel a bit better 🙂
I was leaning toward the short stories too. Bite size fiction might be easier to digest. Thanks, Mark!
I sometimes will read stories in magazines like Oprah mag. I love books and read constantly, but sometimes you just have to go for something short. Our library has a permanent shelf of donated magazines for free. (P.S. I’ve got Her Fearful Sym and After the Apoc, but haven’t read them yet.)
Thanks for the tip, Annie!
Try the GREYWALKER series. Supernatural. Not super great writing. I got into it. Definitely characters. Hope your health improves. I know how it is.
I LOVE the Greywalker series!! Thanks Gretchen. Hopefully things will start looking up in the near year.
I’d recommend Supernaturally — pacing on YA books tends to move pretty quickly.
Sorry you haven’t been feeling well lately —- sending some positive thoughts your way. 🙂
Paranormalcy was a super fast read (and so much fun too). I bet Supernaturally will be too.
Thanks Jo. I definitely need all the positive thoughts and vibes I can get. 🙂
With all due respect to Audrey Niffenneggar, I found Her Fearful Symmetry a slog. Totally agree with Jo that YA books are a great way to go when you need a fast-paced read. I’m sure you’ve read the Hunger Games series? I couldn’t put them down. Best wishes that you feel better soon.
Thank you so much, Charlotte! I did decided to go with Supernaturally and it’s just what I needed. I have no read the Hunger Games yet. Isn’t that awful!? I have it on my Kindle though and I’m going to start reading it next. I promised my daughter I’d have it read before the film is released.
Yes, I was leaning toward Supernaturally for you. As always, go with the gut. You know what works for you! 😀
I do like your list tho’ … making a list myself for next year. Trying to follow your example … examples.
Got your lovely card. Thanks for being so thoughtful.
Hugs,
Jan
You’re welcome! 🙂