Overview
My Earliest Reading Memory
At the tender age of seven, I discovered the enchanting world of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings in my bedroom in deep west Cornwall. With a child’s imagination, I secretly believed that Rivendell was inspired by my home, although it clearly wasn’t.
Why It Matters
My Favourite Book Growing Up
Choosing just one favourite book is nearly impossible for me, as my tastes have always been in constant flux. However, I fondly remember Tove Jansson’s *Finn Family Moomintroll*, a delightful addition to her Moomin series, blending beauty with moments of genuine terror.
The Book That Changed Me as a Teenager
At 14, I encountered Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, and to say I hated it would be an understatement. The book nearly dampened my passion for reading. Despite its acclaim as a masterpiece, I couldn’t fathom why we had to read about the alienation of childhood at a time when we were so entrenched in our own struggles. “Why revisit feelings of incomprehensibility and loneliness?” I thought.
The Writer Who Changed My Mind
Tan Twan Eng introduced me to *The Garden of Evening Mists*, a breathtaking novel that taught me how stories dealing with hardship can also convey uplifting truths, transcending mere words on a page.
The Book That Made Me Want to Be a Writer
This is a tricky question, as I’ve always been immersed in writing. However, I can point to *Cloud Atlas* by David Mitchell. Its brilliance compelled me to embark on writing a novel of my own. Authors like Michael Chabon evoke a fierce creative envy in me, pushing me to improve my craft. Jeanette Winterson embodies a perfect dreamer, while Anne Carson and Colson Whitehead inspire me to strive for greater complexity and depth. Still, the honor of inspiration might go to John le Carré’s *A Murder of Quality*, a beautiful leather-bound gift from my father that ignited my belief in the magic of words.
Key Takeaways
The Book I Came Back To
Yes, it’s *Great Expectations* again. I’ve come to appreciate its brilliance, though I still believe it shouldn’t be forced upon teenagers. Reading should be a choice—just because it features young protagonists doesn’t mean it’s specifically intended for them; it serves as a reflection for the rest of us who remember those formative years.
The Book I Reread
I chose to revisit *The Hound of the Baskervilles* by Arthur Conan Doyle. I initially read it as a frightened child, later chuckled at my youthful fears during university, and most recently, I recognized the profound cruelty of its master, rather than just the terror of the hound.
The Book I Could Never Read Again
Regrettably, I don’t recall many of the fun reads from my childhood between ages seven and 17. However, I do have notable exceptions, such as Susan Cooper’s *Dark Is Rising* series, Patricia McKillip’s harpist trilogy, and anything by William Gibson.
The Book I Discovered Later in Life
I later discovered *Labyrinths* by Jorge Luis Borges, a collection that profoundly impacted my understanding of narrative.
The Book I Am Currently Reading
At the moment, I’m engrossed in *Basilisk* by Matt Wixey, while I also share the latest *Amari Peters* book, *Amari and the Despicable Wonders* by BB Alston, with my children. It’s thrill-filled, and I can’t imagine how the protagonist will come out on top!
My Comfort Read
*Spook Country* by William Gibson is my go-to comfort read. While later in his career, this book stands out for me, and I also cherish the audiobook read by Robertson Dean. Its prose texture and blend of the mundane with the extraordinary create a delightful reading experience.
Final Thoughts
Each of these books and authors has shaped my journey through reading and writing. They remind us that literature is not just an escape, but a gateway to understanding ourselves and the world around us. Whether it’s through the innocence of childhood tales or the profound reflections of adulthood, every reading experience enriches our lives.
