Books

Bermudabluez
had a bookshelf on her site and I just had to have one for myself so I borrowed the idea from her (you can see mine if you scroll down a bit over on the right there). I've put my latest reads on there as well as the ones that are in line waiting to be read.

My love affair with books started back one summer when I was about 8 or 9 when Mom made us lay down for one of those dreaded naps. My nap spot for the day was on her bed, and since she had bookshelf headboard, she had a load of books there that I started browsing through. Not being a bit sleepy, I started reading Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs and when nap time was over I didn't want to put it down and I've had my "place" marked in one book or another ever since.

I just finished reading Duma Key by Stephen King. It's the story of Edgar Freemantle and his recovery from a terrible nightmare-inducing accident that stole his arm, ended his marriage, and started a weird and horrible adventure.

Stephen King has a way of writing that makes you feel like he's in your head, like the people in his story are you. His characters are easily identifiable, his story lines are spooky. Remember when you were a kid, in your bed, at night, and you're suddenly sure the dark shape over in the corner is someone standing there watching you? Or, how about being afraid to let your foot dangle over the side of the bed for fear that whatever is under there might grab it? THAT'S how Stephen King makes me feel,,, scared enough to hesitate before walking through the house in the dark. That's the only way I can think to describe his amazing talent and the reason I love his books.

Another author who makes me feel like a scared little kid again is Dean Koontz. I've probably read everything he's ever written but my favorite of his books is Phantoms. I wouldn't stay up reading that one at night if everyone else had gone to bed.

The latest book I've read by Koonz is on my shelf ovah there.

I'm currently reading A Child Called It/The Lost Boy, which is actually two books in one volume by Dave Pelzer. It's his story of growing up in a horribly abusive home and his struggle to make it through the foster care system.

I'm still trying to encourage Zach to read and have hopes that some day he'll pick up THE book that will open his mind and his heart to allow the "love of reading" to take hold. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.