How has your reading changed over time?

[ch]

I was thinking about this recently, how my reading has changed over time, from childhood through adulthood into the present day.

Have others experienced changes in their reading over time, through the years? Changes in purpose, subject matter, paper to electronic, increase or decrease in time spent...

When I was a child I read purely for escape. As a young adult I barely read at all, except for schooling, and I didn't enjoy it. I spent a lot of time in outdoor recreation during my young adult years instead. Then I began reading for knowledge, often difficult books, and mostly non-fiction; it was a very different experience from the reading of my childhood - almost of an opposite sort.

When I joined goodreads I wanted to broaden my reading to something in between: transformative, rather than just escapist or just technical. This was when I began reading real literature, a genre that I am still somewhat unfamiliar with. I also started reading more acclaimed novels (such as the list we will reading from).

Now I read in bed in the evenings as well, which I never used to do.

I'm enjoying my reading a lot more now than I ever have, as it has developed over time.

[Dragana]

Yes, my reading changed over time.
At first, as I child I read all kinds of literature, it was an experiment, a way to find what I like. Then, through time I found my "genre", classics, books you can read all through life, over and over again with a new perspective every time.
I think that if you read long and often enough you get tired of "one season novels", they become a burden. There is nothing in those books that gives you meaning, that teaches you about life.
Nowadays, I look for the quality rather than quantity in reading.

[ch]

Dragana wrote: "Yes, my reading changed over time.
At first, as I child I read all kinds of literature, it was an experiment, a way to find what I like. Then, through time I found my "genre", classics, books you ..."

Many of the books I read as a child were classics, now that you mention it. A few are even on our reading list. They were "fantastic" in theme, though - no Tolstoy!

One book I read recently that I wouldn't have selected in the past, was Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, which may not be a classic but isn't a fad, either... It did teach something about life, and I wasn't expecting that. It was truly funny, too.

I don't have an ebook but I've been told that they are very nice for reading in bed or on the sofa. I think the reason that Art History: Volume 1 With CD-ROM is taking me so long to read is that it is a 5-pound, foot-square paperback which is impossible to hold while reclining, LOL! This is a book that is truly a burden!

[ch]

Anthony, I love how your reading is so much part of your life that no matter what changes there has always been a place for it!

[Sarah]

"Sorry about all the padding"
Anthony, a response to this and a message to all members - please never hesitate to write interesting responses like this, and certainly never apologise! This was an enjoyable read, being able to imagine you in all those different situations, and hearing about your changes in book choices over time. This site, and this group, are all about reading so to reiterate - members should never hesitate to share anecdotes, like this with others in the group. Great to read.

[Debbie]

I always have been a voracious reader even from early childhood. My habits have changed from just fiction as a teenager to encompassing most subjects and genres now.
I do like a good novel, contemporary or classic but just as much enjoy a hefty non-fiction historical or science tome.
What I have noticed is that I now tend to read around subjects rather than dip in and around genres. This year's 'project' is World War 1, I thought it appropriate considering it's the centenary.
I tend to inflict my childhood favourites on my kids, lots of Roald Dahl, Joan Aiken, Eva Ibbotson, Nina Bawden, Michael Bond, all the classics. I am enjoying being introduced to new children's literature.

[Debbie]

Anthony wrote: "When I was a child, I read as a child... We all know how it goes.

As a child I mostly read stories of social conscience. Peter pan, Water Babies, Brer Rabbit, or factual books, Birds of our Garde..."

How can you apologise for such a lovely response to literature. Reading is a passion for everyone here and your response is poetic and a pleasure to read. I particularly liked the Zen/LA anecdote. :)