Like many reading this blog, I am a huge book lover. This year all things bookish have been a way to escape reality, to get lost in a new world, to fall in love with new characters, and to discover new books and authors. I am going to briefly (well, as brief as I possibly can, I am a rambler) discuss the positive ways in which Bookstagram, Booktok, Booktube and all things bookish have helped shape my year for the better.
1. A form of escapism
For me, reading has always been a way of escaping reality. Life can be difficult and overbearing sometimes, so getting lost in the world of a new book or returning to the comforts of an old favourite can be an excellent way to detach yourself. We all deal with difficulties in different ways, but being able to get our minds away for an hour or two, lost within the pages, often helps to recharge our batteries.
Life has a way of throwing curveballs no matter how big or small they may be, and we all need a coping mechanism that works for us. Personally, I have struggled with grief and my mental health this past year and I was able to find comfort and distraction in my ever expanding TBR (which, if you’re wondering, is overbearing. But we don’t even go there).
It’s not just the act of reading that’s a good way to escape either. What better way to spend an afternoon than getting lost in a bookshop? Picking up books you would have otherwise never looked at, expanding your TBR (again, we don’t go there), meeting like minded book lovers, and sharing recommendations. Aside from reading, I think buying books and collecting bookish items can be, in itself, a complete hobby. I can’t stop myself from buying cute bookmarks, book sleeves or subscribing to book boxes.
2. New discoveries
Another way in which reading is massively beneficial for me is the chance to discover new favourite books and/or authors. I rediscovered my love for reading this year, meaning I have also discovered new authors and books. How wonderful is the fact that there will always be new books being released and therefore new chances to find a new favourite read? What is dangerous for my bank balance is good for my passion.
Another form of discovery is delving into new genres. Prior to joining Bookstagram, I solely read romantic fiction. If there wasn’t a happy ever after or cheesy cliché then I wasn’t interested. But now? My favourite genre is fantasy and I have even gotten into thrillers, which I never thought was possible! That’s the amazing thing about being a part of an online bookish community: the wealth of inspiration to be brave with your reading and the likelihood of discovering new genres.
3. Educating yourself
Stories are the original way of sharing and expanding our knowledge, developing our understanding of languages, bolstering our vocabulary and a way to learn more about ourselves. My personal aim for 2022 is to diversify the scope of my reading; in particular by exploring more memoirs and non-fiction books. I have read a small but enlightening handful this year, and there is always room for more diversity and exploration!
I recently read 11.22.63 with @TalkWordyToUs bookclub. While fictional, it has a solid grounding within historical events, which often inspires us to explore the area further. I think it’s important to note that fictional reads can also help to widen understanding on history and important aspects of life, no matter the world in which they are set.
4. Emotions
I love when a book makes me feel a wealth of emotions.
Whether it has you laughing until your stomach hurts, or crying your heart out, a book can raise your heart rate one moment, and leave you serine the next. I think that’s what can make a book special: the ability to touch every single part of you. A book that’s so raw, so relatable.
I am so thankful to all the books that have made me fall back in love with reading, the wonderful friends I have met along the way, and for finding my new coping mechanism. I really hope some of this may have resonated with you and you too can find happiness in reading. Sarah Writer.
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