Today during my normal chat time at Long Ridge we were discussing writers and our favorite authors. Discussing the writers was easy. Deciding on a favorite was much harder though.
I know most writers, as they learn their craft become more selective with what they read. I'm the same way. Now, instead of settling into the story I tend to notice how the story was written and pick apart the author's choices. There is a good side and a bad side to this.
The good side is I've become much more aware of how words go together to make scenes and how good scenes can go bad. I notice dialogue that doesn't sound natural for the character along with paying attention to plot lines and the dramatic arc. After a memorable experience with an ending that made me swear to never buy another of the series, I'm much more aware of how story endings need to tie up the loose ends and satisfy the reader.
The down side is that it's been a long time since I last got so lost in a book I practically forgot to breathe. It's been ages since I took a book to the kitchen, continuing to read as I stirred dinner and it's been ages since I took a book to the bathroom with me. I tend to not give a book very long to get me involved. I'm more demanding now.
What about you, has becoming a writer changed you as a reader? How?
What does it take for a book to hook you?
And what have you read and enjoyed lately?
Jean
Oh...I want to encourage you all to stop by the Long Ridge Chat Room. It's a nice place to take a break and get to know other writers. And nope, you don't have to be a Long Ridge student to join us. We love to chat with everyone. Just be prepared...writing isn't the only thing we discuss. Food is often a major topic along with kids and pets. If you are stuck with your idea, we'll gladly help brainstorm with you:-)
We are always there at noon central during the week and on Sunday evenings at 7 central. Stop by, say hi and make yourself at home.
First, the fav writer is a HARD one for me. I like John Grisham, Jerry B. Jenkins, Ann MacDonald...boy... Carol D. O'Dell ;o).
ReplyDeleteAs for LR's chat room...it rocks. I don't get to go on there as much as I'd like to but it really is fun. The regulars are the nicest, most sincere group I've ever had the pleasure to chat with. =oD
Thanks, Jean.
(I'll have to go look on my bookshelf now and find ones that AREN'T school-related LOL ;o) )
Chynna
I love your post, Jean! But it makes me realize I'm either not as far along as you, or I'm just the same kid I've always been! I still walk holding a book. I even read on the treadmill. Luckily, I haven't yet flown off balance!
ReplyDeleteI've been catching up on kids' books mostly. They seem to allow the greatest escape for me from the daily routines. (Maybe I'm just a kid at heart still, running on the farm, climbing trees, exploring the forests, etc.) The biggest pleasure I really get, by reading kids' books, is the ability to share conversations about the characters and events with my own kids.
However, I've just ordered Carol D. O'Dell's book. That will be my next goal--with that one I expect to grow a lot. ;-)
Well...I doubt I'm farther along than you are. You catch a lot of things I don't.
ReplyDeleteBut, I do love to read. My kids are I are reading the Prophecy series, we are eagerly waiting for the next to come out.
It's just that as a writer, I have a hard time letting go of the "editor" self and enjoying the story.
Maybe I should bribe editor self with chocolate:-)
Jean
PS...I fought the blogger and tonight I won:--)