Building relationships with books
Reading is mostly a solitary activity, but it has the power to create relationships that would unlikely be formed otherwise.
During my lunch break at the BDN, I can usually be found in the break room with my nose buried in a book. People in other departments took notice, and soon a colleague from inside sales began bringing me her recommendations. She introduced me to Jodi Picoult with “My Sister’s Keeper” and fed me with fluffy Danielle Steel paperbacks.
My love of reading has also helped me connect with people as I interview people for stories. Last year I talked with the Turner High/Middle School librarian about “Twilight,” and this past summer I chatted with a school district secretary about “Harry Potter.”
Books also help me stay connected to my family. My sister and I lend each other books we enjoyed, and my mom and I have criticized the movie versions of beloved novels.
And now I must change my original ending to this entry, which encouraged you, this blog reader, to turn the conversation to books if we ever meet in person and stumble over small talk. Chances are slim we’ll run into each other as I am leaving the Stateline Area.
Best,
Ashley
