Reading changes how you think

I just finished reading The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell. It was on my read list because it hit several of my hashtags. I wanted to know what my book (the next one, not the one just published) would be comparable to. So Christian, science fiction, speculative fiction, character growth were typed in and the result spit out, among others, was the The Sparrow. So I read it completely blind. No information beyond that. I would not recommend this book to just anyone.

The ending hurt, disgusted, and shocked me. It shouldn’t have because all the information was out there right at the beginning but having been on this journey with her amazing characters somehow I forgot. And was blindsided to the point of tears. When I could see again, I read the author’s notes and interview. I thought about what she said and became a little angry, with myself. Her beliefs were not in-line with mine. Her reasons for writing were exactly what I was looking for but her inner self, the core that everything else is hung on, doesn’t match mine. So the resolution of the book was not what I believed, both the actions and the character’s outlook.

Being challenged by the books we read is a great reason to read! Not everything is about information or entertainment. The ones we truly remember are the ones that shape our inner core. In some cases they make us want to be more like them, in others the exact opposite, but for most it’s more like tweaks than about-turns. Would I behave differently? Could I make a better decision? Would I be brave enough? We ask ourselves questions, we think about outcomes. We reflect on our own lives and make the tiniest adjustments. Sometimes we don’t even realize that this is what we are doing. Seeds of self doubt can easily be planted or maybe someone recognizes too much of themselves in the villain. We need to read with awareness.

Books with helmets and knee pads

I have kids. I taught my kids many things, held their hand or bike seat and cheered them on. I did my best but at some point I did need to let go. They wobbled and swerved and yelled as they bumped off the sidewalk and into the grass. They might be scared and need a hug but they were safe. Knee pads, elbow pads and helmet still firmly in place despite the grass stains.

When we give our children books there is a little less control. I did read the first of almost every series that my five children read once they reached chapter books. Luckily they read some of the same series or that to-be-read list would still sitting beside the bed. I didn’t agree with all of them. I discussed my concerns with my kids, I asked questions and encouraged them to ask questions. Not just of me but of themselves too. When a book crossed a line that they didn’t want to follow, I never pushed, even if it was a school assigned book. I don’t believe in sheltering kids from all the things of this world that might be scary or troublesome but I do believe that we need to equip them.

Author Awareness

One way of knowing what to expect from an author is to read up about them. Read the author bio, listen to interviews, read reviews from other people or authors. Look for the words that align with your inner core. What do they believe? Do they write for an audience that your child is involved in or can relate to? Is the maturity level the same as where your child is right now regardless of age? What message is the author trying to send? Then you make a decision. Should they read this alone or with help? Will we discuss this afterwards? Then let them read. I don’t recommend banning books, it will make them even more likely to be read and then you will have no control or input. Its about conversation and communication.

For your own books I recommend something similar. Join a book club, read it with a friend, or look for a reader’s guide. There is a reader’s guide at the end of The Sparrow. I went through the questions and answered for myself. What do I believe? How would my outlook have been different than the character’s resolution? Will this book change what I believe? No, it will not, though I did find the characters fascinating and the concept fresh and exciting, I will continue to believe what I believed before I read this book. I am secure in my faith.

Housekeeping and Updates

First, my book is available as a e-book on all major sites. It is available to order in either hard cover or paperback on the Friesen Press website and will shortly be available to order a physical copy at major book sites as well (about two weeks). I will also have physical copies in about two weeks if you wish to purchase directly from me.

Second, THANK YOUs. I recieved very few responses about being sure to thank the people around you. For myself, I thanked a lot of people in person with no effort at all but I seldom thank people online. So I know where I need

to work on that. I also realize that I need to leave the house on a more regular basis. That is a totally different situation though. So please respond to my challenges and questions when ever you read them. Give me tips or reminders. I need them and I will make an effort to thank you for your critiques as well.

Now for this week’s question:

How has a book changed you for the better? Is there a book that has changed you for the worse?