Tsundoku

I am curiously relieved. It turns out there is actually a Japanese name for what I am. A name for one of my idiosyncrasies, anyway. I was just commenting to my husband the other day that I am not safe in a bookstore. I seem to be unable to leave without at least one purchase. Usually more than one. My bookcases are overflowing, my bookshelves likewise. My bedside table, forget about it. I also make frequent trips to the library for books-on-tape as well as any title that catches my eye. So here’s the thing. I’ll never read them all. I’m just not that speedy a reader. Somehow, that is a non-issue. Go figure.

For me, reading is not only important, it’s an integral part of life. Not as important as say, spending time with family or looking at the ocean, but right up there.  One of my favorite childhood memories was going with my mother to a little bookstore called The Cigar Store. I guess they sold cigars, I don’t know, but I do know they sold lots and lots of magazines and lots and lots of books. Browsing there was bliss.

Happy Reading!

The article from the Huffington Post is here:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/theres-a-japanese-word-for-people-who-buy-more-books-than-they-can-actually-read_us_58f79b7ae4b029063d364226?utm_campaign=hp_fb_pages&utm_source=main_fb&utm_term=nosplashcard&utm_medium=facebook&ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000063

The Old Butcher’s Bookshop, Paris.

Re-pinned by http://sunnydaypublishing.com/books

THE BEAR AND THE NIGHTINGALE- MAY 2017 BOOK SELECTION

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is a breath of fresh air. This author’s first novel promises more delights to come. It is categorized as a fantasy but it is much more. It does indeed have fantastical elements, the main character having second sight and the ability to communicate with horses as well as house spirits, wood nymphs and all manner of mystical creatures.

It is set in fifteenth century Russia and brings forth all the richness, not only in dress and custom of that period but also the beliefs and superstitions. The book jacket tells us that Arden, herself has lived an unconventional, interesting life. She not only majored in Russian literature but lived in Russia and immersed herself in it’s culture.

The main character, Vasilisa faces challenges that are not unlike those faced by women today. She refuses to fit into the mold her patriarchal family, the church and society expect of her. Her mother, herself gifted, died in childbirth knowing what her daughter’s abilities and challenges would be.

Some critics have found Arden’s descriptions overdone, but I found her use of language beautiful and unique. Because of this, the world of Vasilisa comes vibrantly alive. Arden’s inclusion of Russian names and terms is done skillfully and add texture. A glossary of terms is also thoughtfully included.

Highly Recommend.