This is sort of an anti-challenge.
Do you have a Reading Temptation? You know the book: maybe the plot doesn't appeal, maybe the hype drove you nuts, maybe the author has disappointed you in the past. Whatever the reason, you decided not to read it.
Then review after review sang praises of unsurpassed joy in the reading of the book! The characters, that readers want to kiss on the tops of their adorable heads! The delightful couldn't-put-it-down plot! And, oh the ending--indescribable. Unfathomable. "You just have to read it to understand."
Then you see the book in the front of the bookstore, or you come across a used copy. Another reviewer--one you really love!--waxes poetic about the book, and they're having a giveaway! Five free copies! It's like a cosmic message, Read-the-book-read-the-book-read-the-book. After all, you've been surprised by books before. Maybe you should just try it.
My book is The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. I have no doubt it's a wonderful book, and I've read and heard many tempting reviews, but I have no desire to read it. Care's mini review confirmed that for me, and that's how my Just Say No Challenge was born.
All you have to do is name the book or books you don't want to read, pick a Just Say No time frame, and then not read or buy or accept a free copy for that time frame. No matter what.
Say what you will about how wondrous Edgar Sawtelle is. Yes, I like Wisconsin, and dogs, and enthralling, warmly idiosyncratic stories, and Shakespeare. However. I'm committing to not reading it for the year 2009. Because I just Don't Want To.
But you should read it. I hear it's really good.
OMG! I laughed so much reading this. So inspired!
ReplyDeleteI have to say that I also do not want to read Edgar Sawtelle. Can't really pinpoint why. Just don't.
Hahahahahahah!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to not read any books including vampires unless they are already in my house (and I don't think I have any but sometimes they can jump out at you.) for the entire 2009. Maybe 2010 wlll be the year of the Vampire, maybe not. I'm also committing to not reading any Harry Potter.
ReplyDeleteThis morning I've been trying to think of a book I don't want to read- i'm sure there are tons but when I think about it, I can't remember any! There are a lot I'm just sort of indifferent about.
ReplyDeleteThis is hilarious. I can't think of any books I violently don't want to read, but if I come across one I am in :)
ReplyDeleteKim
I'm going to not read any books including vampires unless they are already in my house (and I don't think I have any but sometimes they can jump out at you.)
ReplyDeleteLOL! Yeah, those vampire books can be sneaky that way. And sometimes they sneak into your room and watch you sleep, which is creepy but also kind of hot, apparently. Speaking of which, I think I'll add the Twilight series (after the first book, which I've already read) to my Just Say No book list.
Kim and Alea: No worries. When the right book comes along, you will know!
This is finally one challenge I could succeed at! Excellent idea!
ReplyDeleteI don't want to read any heart-wrenching stories about people who's kids go missing or die. I think Jacqueline Mitchard had one. They made it into a movie and I didn't watch that either...
ReplyDeleteKa
I can't think of any off the top of my head...well, there are those Twilight ones, but that's not much of a challenge for me (despite frequent outbursts by daughter of "Oh, but Mom, they're sooooo good!" and "How can you be so stubborn?!!"). Anyway, I just had to say how hard this post had me laughing...perfect start to an otherwise dreary morning. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteAwesome idea! I think I'll be adding this to my challenges.
ReplyDeleteCare's comment cracked me up...I'm picturing Bela Lugosi and Edward lurking behind the doors in her house.