A Glimpse Into My Heart: Books I’ve Reread + Reader Comments About Randomness

/ Ally Bean

The quote above is attributed to Francois Mauriac, French author and winner of the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize for Literature. I didn’t know a thing about this man until I researched him, btw.

If we are to believe in Mauriac’s idea, one that I have never thought about before, then it follows that by sharing which novels I’ve reread I’m letting you know who I am.

Heart-wise, that is.

However before I tell you which books I’ve reread I’m going to insert 3 provisos, lest I be misunderstood:

✅ I know that some people never reread anything, but I do reread novels. Never non-fiction though, except that I reread cookbooks which are technically non-fiction so maybe I don’t know what I’m saying here.

✅ I know that some people who read novels then see a movie based on the novel consider that like reading a book for a second time. I am not one of those people: books are books, movies are movies. They are different animals.

✅ I know that technically rereading children’s stories to a child is rereading, but I believe that doing that is not in the spirit of this exercise so I haven’t included any of those books here.

Thus, without further ado, presented in alphabetical order, here are 9 books I’ve reread as an adult:

Alice in Wonderland* by Lewis Carroll

Chocolat by Joanne Harris

Even Cowgirls Get the Blues by Tom Robbins

I Capture the Castle* by Dodie Smith

Jane Eyre* by Charlotte Brontë

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Screwtape Letters* by C.S. Lewis

Winnie-the-Pooh* by A.A. Milne

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance* by Robert M. Pirsig

* Books on my list with an asterisk are ones included in Books Really Worth Re-Reading, a Goodreads list of 753 books.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you ever reread books? Why or why not?

Now that I’ve revealed which books I’ve read more than once, do you feel like you’ve gotten a glimpse into my heart? OR do you think Mauriac’s idea is dubious at best?

What say you about “lame one-liner reviews” currently popular on the back covers of novels?

What book are you currently reading? Is this the first time you read it OR are you rereading it?

AND FINALLY FOUR READER COMMENTS…

About something RANDOM in your daily life:

“… there is plenty of ‘random’ in my life…. looking for things because no one ever puts anything back where it goes. (How can so many pairs of scissors possibly disappear?!?)… I’ll spend next Tuesday morning hanging small bars of soap in young peach trees to serves as deer repellent.”

~ Linda Lou

“I stopped for iced coffee from Bad Ass Coffee today. They use coffee to make their ice cubes, which tastes good, of course, but makes me happy beyond practical reasoning!”

~ Christie Hawkes

“Currently, I am on peony watch – looking out the back window all day. The older peony has already flowered and dropped all it’s petals. The newer peony (which is my favorite; don’t tell the other one) is so close to blooming that I can’t stand it.”

~ Gigi Rambles

“As for random thoughts, I was thinking of how clean my kitchen will be once my kids move out. LOL!”

~ joyroses13

231 thoughts on “A Glimpse Into My Heart: Books I’ve Reread + Reader Comments About Randomness”

  1. I read mysteries so I don’t choose to reread them, but I have found myself a ways into a book, realized I’ve read it before, but keep reading. 🙂 I much prefer book summaries on the jacket so I can get a feel for what the story includes. Reading is a big part of my life, but I also think it is personal so I’m for everyone reading or rereading whatever makes them happy. I just finished Ian K. Smith’s “The Overnights” and James Patterson’s “The House of Wolves.” I read on average two to three books a week so I love my local library. Happy reading!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Judy, I take your point about not rereading mysteries. That makes good sense to me. I like book summaries on back of books, too, for the reason you mentioned. My husband is a fan of Patterson’s books, but I don’t think I’ve read one… for no reason in particular… probably should, huh? I can understand how you and your local library are best friends, considering how many books you read per week.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Funny: I don’t read newly-published novels, but I re-read a good number, particularly those by Faulkner, Durrell, and Flannery O’Connor. I mostly stick to non-fiction, but re-read many, many of those, including favorite chapters from some. Since I especially enjoy collections of letters and essays, it’s easy to do. I’ve kept books because of a single chapter or two.

    I do prefer a well-written, short synopsis on a book’s cover to those gushy reviews. So many of them clearly are of the “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours” variety. Current reads? Here’s what’s on my desk right now: eleven books on wildflower identification or east Texas ecology. Farming: A Handbook by Wendell Berry. Kevin Cole’s poetry collection titled Late Summer Plums. Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. The Epistles of Horace, edited by David Ferry. Joan Didion’s The White Album. All of them are re-reads, except for the Horace, which is a new purchase. Dillard’s the most re-read: probably a hundred times.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, I haven’t read many collections of letters and essays, but I can’t tell you why. I can understand how rereading a chapter or an essay or a letter could be comforting, inspirational, entertaining. Makes sense to me.

      You said it about the “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours” variety of one-liner reviews. I thought I was the only person who didn’t like them, then I came across the above quote from a lovely source and had an ‘ah-ha’ moment. I am not alone.

      I remember reading Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, but the rest of the books you mention are new to me. Obviously I don’t research TX wildflowers, but the Didion one seems like a book I might find interesting.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. I rarely reread books unless it’s for book club. It’s because there are just too many books that I want to experience and time is limited…I might miss a book that I’ll love even more. But I do refer back to books in posts and I will highlight sections of books that I love. Watching a movie is not rereading. And as I’ve had an eye infection and could only listen to books, audio books are not reading either

    Liked by 1 person

    • LA, I realize you make a good point about not rereading so that you might find something better. Many people feel that way and considering we’re all reading for pleasure, whatever works for you works.

      I hadn’t thought about audio books when I was writing this. I don’t consider them the same as reading a book BUT I know many people do and make no distinction between using their eyeballs to read a book and using their ears to listen to a book. If I read a book I say that, if I listen to a book I make it clear as well. To me, different experiences.

      Liked by 1 person

      • To Anyone who says audio books are reading…is listening to the radio reading a magazine? I realize people enjoy audio books…but whenever I’m at book club 1) no one remembers the details when they listen to a book 2) they either get the plot or the beauty of the language but never both 3) they barely remember things to discuss 4) they can’t refer back to a specific passage and 5) they complain more about the narrator than anything else

        Liked by 1 person

  4. Hi Ally! Great quote by Mauriac – I’d never heard of him before your post, but no doubt I’ll see his name everywhere now. I have read Jane Eyre three times, but I haven’t read the others on your list (ack!). I agree lists like these give a window into the reader’s heart. Some of my re-reads include Youngblood Hawke (all-time favorite book), The Grapes of Wrath, A Farewell to Arms and Gone With the Wind. As for those 1-sentence endorsements on the back of the book – I take them with a grain of salt.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Barbara, Mauriac was new to me, but I liked his quote enough to research him and provide a link here. I’ve read Jane Eyre twice, so you got me beat. [As if this is a contest!] I’ve never read Youngblood Hawke. You’d think I would have and now I feel like I should. You have good taste in literature.

      I like your approach to the one-line endorsements, grain of salt is right.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. I have begun looking inside the book’s jackets to see if there is a short synopsis there since newer books no longer have them on the back. I wish they’d go back to having them too.

    I reread books all the time. I’ve reread several Martha Grimes Richard Jury series books, and Robert B. Parker Spencer novels. I’ve reread Persuasion so many times I’ve lost count, and Mary Oliver’s Why I wake Early book of poetry I reread a lot.

    Currently on my desk are: Two camera manuals…yes, I still look up stuff even after years of using the cameras, National Geographic’s Field Guide to Birds of No. America, I use this to record my “first time” sightings. I peruse it all the time, and National Audubon Society Field Guide to Wildflowers, Western Region.

    I’m currently reading After Dunkirk by Lee Jackson, and I’m about halfway through Charles Dickens The Cricket on the Hearth I don’t think I’ll finish it by the time the Dickens reading challenge ends. It’s my 3rd Dickens novella since January…I’m a bit over Dickens for the moment.
    I reread lots of children’s books! I love them.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deborah, I’d prefer to see a short synopsis on the back cover of books, too, BUT that seems to no longer be in fashion. I suppose publishers figure ‘influencers” drive book sales more than content. 🙄

      I went through a Spenser period and read all the mysteries, but never reread them. I do like that character with Suz and Hawk. I can understand why you reread the books about birds and wildflowers, that’s how I feel about rereading cookbooks.

      I started The Cricket on the Hearth a while back and forgot to keep on reading it. I didn’t choose it to be part of a reading challenge, but because I studied Dickens in college but never read that particular novella. I was feeling studious when I downloaded it, I guess.

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Rereads are usually feel-good or insanely funny books to help my mood. I’ll read a Stephanie Plum book just for the giggles. I can almost say it before I read it like people do for “The Rocky Horror Show.” I like to reread cookbooks too. I am always hoping that reading the recipe will be the same as making it but it’s not.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Kate, I think I reread these books for similar reasons to yours. I want to feel good or laugh or escape into a comfort read. It is the same as rewatching a particular movie or TV series, hadn’t thought of that. I know what you mean about recipes not making themselves. And they say we live in modern times! 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  7. I would say you have a heart of magic, whimsy and lots of hope. I love your list.
    Children’s books are often re-read because they’re short. Harold and the Purple Crayon – love that book – is top of my list. I love how he creates his own life, including fears and problems, and then solves them on his own. (We are all the authors of our own lives.) And I cry every single time I read Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. As for adult books, I would say Life of Pi, and I’ve also re-read The Alchemist.
    I totally agree with the comment about a summary on the back of the book. Let’s start a campaign!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Arlene, oh I like how you describe my heart. Thank you. I do lean into magic and hope when I reread. I often need it.

      Harold and the Purple Crayon is a great example of a wonderful children’s book. I excluded them from my list, unless you consider Winnie-the-Pooh to be kid’s lit, which I don’t. I’m not familiar with Love You Forever so I’ll look for it.

      And as for finding a way to stop the one-liner gushy reviews of books, I’d love to see it end but think that in our age of ‘influencers’ they’re here to stay.

      Liked by 1 person

  8. For several years after my son was born, I read books and promptly forgot them. So I got to enjoy reading them for the first time twice, yay, but I’m pretty sure it doesn’t count as deliberate rereading! Like you, I generally won’t reread non-fiction unless I’m looking for a particular quote. I reread for entertainment, escapism, and comfort; this was especially true during the early days of COVID. My favorite author is Lois McMaster Bujold and I reread almost all of her books, as well as the Murderbot series by Martha Wells. Jane Austen is probably the only famous dead author I will reread–the witty banter and layers of subtext are incomparable.

    Liked by 1 person

    • AutumnAshbough, I’m laughing. I agree you got to read those books for the first time, twice. That makes sense to me. I don’t know of Bujold or Wells, but they must be compelling for you to reread almost all of their books. I agree about Jane Austen’s ability to make me laugh with her conversations and intertwined characters, however I’ve never reread any of the novels. I do see movies of them, but that’s not the same thing as per my provisos.

      Liked by 1 person

  9. I love your list, Ally, and your approach/provisos. Mauriac is new to me, too, but I like the quote. The re-reading question, for me, usually means a book ‘spoke’ to me, and then I try to decipher why, as much as possible. One that I’m still struggling with is the why behind re-reading “Watership Down” several times. Still unpacking that one. 😉 (Oh – and the peony quip from Gigi is too fun. We’ve got a showstopper in the backyard that’s putting his peony neighbor to shame. Shhh!) 🥰

    Liked by 1 person

    • Victoria, I felt that beyond stumbling over an interesting quote, learning about Mauriac was fascinating, too. You’re right, I reread books that spoke to me and then begin to muse upon in what ways they spoke to me, kind of unpacking who I am in the process. If you figure out why Watershed Down calls to you, I’d love to know. I read it years ago, but haven’t thought about it since. Yep, Gigi and her peonies had me laughing out loud with her randomness. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  10. I have to admit to currently breaking your rule. I am rereading “Miracle at Midway” by Gordon Prange. Yes, it’s non-fiction, and I reread it so many times, the man who loaned it to me finally gave it to me. That was over 30 years ago. He has since passed away, so rereading it this week is my way of honoring him and the brave men and women who fought and died in that amazing battle.

    Although I’ve been tempted to put comments from beta readers on the back cover of my books, I’ve tried to include as much about the book as I can fit onto one page. I miss book jackets.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dan, if rereading non-fiction appeals to you then by all means do so. I get that, and think that your copy of Miracle at Midway is doubly loved. What a sweet story of how you came by it.

      I realize that the one-liner reviews are a trend and there’s nothing I can do to stop them as long as they sell books. Not mine to dictate, but I can gripe about them. Yep, book jackets were the coolest… and are long gone.

      Liked by 1 person

  11. Well, I taught English for over thirty years, so there are so many books I’ve reread hundreds of times: To Kill a Mockingbird, The Old Man and the Sea, The Great Gatsby, The Catcher in the Rye, The Pearl, Of Mice and Men, The Scarlet Letter; I reread them along with my classes each time. For years and years, I used to reread Gone with the Wind every summer. I think I’ve read A Tree Grows in Brooklyn at least a dozen times. Several of Stephen King’s novels, too, I’ve reread like old friends from my early days.

    Sometimes, I just want to revisit a previous world or those people again. It’s like cozying up in a comfy pair of jammies. Often, I find something new on a reread–a treasure.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nance, I hadn’t thought about your former teacher situation and can instantly see how you’ve reread many books, purposefully even. Obviously you taught the classics and had the chance to revisit them “like old friends” as you say.

      I like that way of envisioning a person’s desire to reread a book. I, too, find that when I reread a book I see something new in it, which keeps it fresh and friendly at the same time.

      Like

  12. I know that I’ve re-read books over the years: Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Little Women, The Handmaids Tale come to mind but I’m sure there are others. I typically do not revisit books, and the whole book to movie idea is ridiculous! That is not a re-read. Why don’t I revisit? I know a book really has to grab me, make a deep personal impact before I would even think about a re-read now. There is only one recent book “Braiding Sweetgrass” that I would likely pick up again. It brought me to tears multiple times so apparently I need something truly profound to go on a revisit list!

    As to summarizing who you are Ally Bean from your book list- I wouldn’t begin to attempt that. I read books across the map and go in genre stages- so right now I am all about nature/ecology but I also have current fiction on my list, religion, aging, neurological science… I have no idea how any of those may impact me or if any will be a re-read. If I did I think the only thing someone might come to know about me is that I embrace diversity in reading so does that transfer over to what matters most to me- what fills me and represents a deeper me? What do you think when you see your list?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, you said what I think, too: “… the whole book to movie idea is ridiculous! That is not a re-read.” HOWEVER I have had people admit to me that when they say they’ve reread a book, it was that they watched a movie based on the book and to them it was the same thing. 🤷‍♀️

      I read on a variety of topics, too. I lean toward history or travel or memoirs but when it comes to rereading those books I rarely do. I usually find that a fictional story, often a bit magical, calls to me so I reread it.

      What do you think when you see your list? I think I like strong independent women; people or characters who are in the process of learning who they are; and an exploration of values with a dash of whimsy.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Whimsy! Yes- I didn’t know if that would sound critical in any way (because not everyone would define whimsy in the way I see it) but just seeing the books/authors on your list ‘whimsical’ was the first word that came to mind 🙂 Maybe I know more about you than I thought! 🙂 Also, love the concept of exploration and growth of the individual.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Whimsy is a good word in my world, so feel free to describe me as such. Now “dippy” I’m not too keen about but whimsical I’ll admit to. I didn’t reread these books with personal growth in mind, but that’s some of what I’ve taken away from them. Go figure

          Liked by 1 person

    • Rivergirl, many people feel like you do and I understand that. I don’t read these books every month or year even, but I do go back to them for a bit of comfort and inspiration, I suppose.

      Liked by 1 person

  14. I’ll play along. While I haven’t read all your listed books, the ones I’m familiar with are deep, thoughtful, and layered. Your re-reads are a gem mine of wisdom and each time you visit, you chip away more of the stone to reveal a new truth.

    My reading number have been drastically reduced in recent years, but I used to average a book a week, with several re-reads thrown in. Some of my re-reads are 2666 by Roberto Bolano, The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury, The Island by Aldous Huxley, Exhalation by Ted Chiang, Animal Farm and 1984 by George Orwell, and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I’m not counting children’s books either, but that Goodreads list brings back fond memories.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Esoterica, I hadn’t thought about it but you’re right, the books I reread are layered stories, even Pooh Bear offers some depth. I hope that I’m gleaning wisdom each time I reread them, but who’s to say? 😉

      Of the books you list I’ve read Animal Farm and 1984 [in high school] and The Alchemist [obviously], the others are new to me. I found the Goodreads list fascinating, so many books that I’d forgotten about… but wondered why anyone would reread them.

      Like

  15. I rarely reread novels because there are just too many new ones I want to get to. However, upon seeing you reread Chocolat, I believe I might have also reread it because it is one of my favorite books of all time.

    Our pastor loves C.S. Lewis and refers to his writings all the time. I once tried to read The Screwtape Letters and I gave up. I truly disliked it! How does one enjoy it, I ask you?

    I’m currently reading Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld. She’s a favorite author of mine.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Bijoux, I liked Chocolat when I first read it enough to read it again one dreary day when I was down in the dumps. Thus began my reread love affair with it. It’s a comforting story.

      As for The Screwtape Letters all I can say is it cracks me up. I find the premise delightful and the relationship between the devil and his nephew makes me laugh.

      I’ve never read anything by Sittenfeld. Perhaps I should. Thanks for the suggestion.

      Like

  16. I will happily reread a book that captivated me the first time through. On a second reading, I’m more aware of how the author uses language and their skill as a writer. Depending on how long ago I may have read a book, I often see it through different eyes. Some of the many books I’ve reread include Jane Eyre, Persuasion, The Poisonwood Bible, Kitchen Table Wisdom, Crime and Punishment, Anna Karenina, Cancer Ward, A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, The Master and Margarita, and oh so many others! Today I’m going to start rereading the book that is, so far, my favorite of this century (millennium): A Gentleman in Moscow, by Amor Towles. It is a masterpiece and I can’t wait to submerge myself into it again.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Donna, I agree with you that on a second reading I gain more insight into how the book was written, having learned on the first reading what the plot is. Plus we change as we go along in life so rereading a novel can hit you differently.

      I’m going to add A Gentleman in Moscow to my list. I know I’ve heard of it, favorably, through many people. Thanks for the reminder.

      Liked by 1 person

  17. The Bible is a book that I’ve read and continue re-reading all of my life. I enjoy reading the Bible cover to cover because of the history and stories it contains. There is so much to be learned that no matter how many times I dive into those pages, I learn something new. I’ve also been a huge Tolkien fan for decades and have re-read his works many many times.

    I agree with you Ally, Lame one liner reviews are the worst. For me, reading a summary of a book is generally what piqued my interest enough to read the book in the first place. “Epic Novel, A Must Read” does absolutely nothing for me.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Johnny2Toes, I’ve read bits and pieces of the Bible but never the whole thing all the way through. I know some people read it repeatedly, getting new insights each time through. Obviously you’re one of those people.

      I am kind of *meh* about Tolkien but I can understand how the story could call to a person over and over again. What with all the movies based on those books, I figure the story must be timeless.

      I’m with you about the lame one-liners. I’m not interested in what some person thinks about the book, I’m interested in what the book is about which, I guess, makes me old-fashioned.

      Like

  18. Hmmm…I loved reading the list of books that you reread. It does give some insight into your taste in books but, beyond that, I’m not sure…

    I LOVED Chocolat, Cowgirls, and especially Winnie the Pooh. I must admit, though, I loathe anything by C.S. Lewis.

    I am not much of a re-reader, but one book I have probably read at least 6 times is Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. I learn something new every time I read it.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Laurie, I tend to believe as you do that *perhaps* there’s not too much to be learned about a person from what said person rereads. HOWEVER in keeping with Mauriac’s idea I wrote this post.

      You’re not the first commenter to say she doesn’t like C.S. Lewis and that she adores Pilgrim at Tinker Creek. Now what that tells me about my commenters, I’m not sure! 😉

      Like

  19. I love to re-read my favorite books! All of Jane Austen’s books, plus Jane Eyre, Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, and the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series by Alexander McCall Smith. Not only do I love re-reading them, but I love re-listening to them as audiobooks! I find them comforting, like old friends. I love how different narrators read the exact same book, and it becomes a different story!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Michelle, I’ve read the classics you mention, but only the first one of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. I don’t know why I didn’t read any more of them because I enjoyed the first one immensely. Adding it to my TBR list.

      I hadn’t thought about how different narrators could make the same book/story seem entirely different. That’s an intriguing logical insight. I don’t lean into audiobooks, but if I do I’ll keep that in mind.

      Like

  20. I’ve heard of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance so many times. (It’s a memorable name.) Thinking maybe I should pick it up and give it a whirl, but I have so many books to read. (Arg!) I’ve read a fantasy series or two by David Eddings a couple of times. Screwtape Letters, interesting. Just noticed the other day that Lewis dedicated it to Tolkien, which is very sweet. Love the randomness, esp so close to blooming I can hardly stand it. That’s delightful. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  21. I haven’t reread many books but I do have a stack of books that I know I will reread one day. If I read an author who takes a year or more between a book series than I’ll read the last few chapters again before I begin a new one. I did that with most Diana Gabaldon books. I had to laugh at your reader comment who was ‘happy beyond practical reasoning’ about coffee ice cubes. I may have to make those! 😊 Maggie

    Liked by 1 person

    • Maggie, I should follow your lead and start a stack of books to reread… eventually. I’ve read the last chapters of a previous mystery [thinking the Elly Griffiths Ruth Galloway series] so that when I start a new one I’ll remember where the story left off. I agree about Christie’s comment. The idea of a special ice cube making someone unreasonably happy, made me happy too.

      Liked by 1 person

  22. I started rereading ‘Zen and the Art etc’ and only got about 1/3 through it before deciding it wasn’t nearly as interesting to me now as it was back then. Maybe I’ll try again another time. I’ve been rereading many of Louise Penny’s murder mysteries. I want to live in the small town where many of the stories are centered (though like Jessica Fletcher in Cabot Cove, you have to wonder what it would feel like in real life to live in a small place where there were so many murders…)
    I like book jackets with a synopsis because I read real books that I select at the library. I am currently reading ‘The Splendid and the Vile’ by Erik Larson. Gives new meaning to what it was like in England at the beginning of WWII – countries were not lined up to aid England, unlike the aid pouring into the Ukraine today.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margy, I don’t reread these books yearly or anything organized, but the last time I reread Zen [maybe 5 years ago] I found it struck me differently than when I was younger. I saw it more through the lens of technology, less as insight into relationships.

      I’ve not read any Louise Penny mysteries, but I know I hear good things about them. I think you speak for many of the commenters here about wanting a book jacket with a real synopsis. The one-line review is pointless. I’m not familiar with The Splendid and the Vile, but it sounds intense.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. I reread some classic books that I read when I was younger and may have forgotten some details. I also reread certain chapters in a book. I avoid reading reviews because I don’t want anything to influence my first impression of a book.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Natalie, I feel the same way about reviews. I rarely pay attention to them for the same reason as you. Now after I’ve read a book I’ll look at them to see if my take jives with the majority.

      Like

  24. You have an impressive list of rereads. Growing up (until motherhood?) I reread books all the time. Maybe being a parent got me too busy to do that. Now I read a book once and give it to a friend. I used to reread all the Anne and Narnia books, Secret Garden and Little Princess. There’s a book I have reread this year, Red Scarf Girl, about the Cultural Revolution in China.

    Liked by 1 person

    • E.A. Wickham, I’m smiling about your idea that motherhood put an end to you rereading books. I didn’t reread books as a girl, wanting something new I guess. Now I can ease into rereading a book occasionally, like visiting an old friend. I’ve no plan for what I reread, which I know some people do– like if it’s a certain month they reread a book applicable to that month.

      I’ve heard of Red Scarf Girl, but that’s it. I’ll look for it, sounds interesting. Thanks for the suggestion.

      Like

    • Deb, I feel the same way about rereading books. I pick one up every few years, reread it, and then discover I missed something the last time I read it. Could it be that I’ve changed? Of course it is.

      Liked by 1 person

  26. I really like the quote by Francois Mauriac. I also like how he encouraged Elie Wiesel to write his book (which I have yet to read, but is on my TBR list).

    I’ve only re-read two books. One is a book by LaVyrle Spencer that I got when I was 21 years old. I had just returned from my first visit to Door County, Wisconsin, and had fallen in love with it. The book was set in Door County, and whenever I was sad or unhappy, it transported me there. The second book is a daily essay book by Mark Nepo, which I am currently reading.

    I haven’t read any of the books on your list. In fact, I’ve never read the majority of the classics. I didn’t like reading until I was in my twenties. I now realize I had a learning disability, which was most likely the reason I didn’t enjoy reading. BUT I enjoy learning about these books from enthusiastic readers like you.

    I recently found a book at the library about the lost art of book cover blurbs. I looked for the title but couldn’t find it. 😦

    I love the reader quotes….off to read some blogs.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Kari, Mauriac was a new name/author for me, but when I read the quote I thought it had some merit. I’m not entirely convinced that you get too much depth about someone by knowing the books they’re reread, but maybe get a bit of a clue into them?

      I can understand why you didn’t read the classics when you were younger. If reading wasn’t fun, then it wasn’t. I’m not familiar with either of the books you’ve reread, but that’s been the fun of talking about this topic, I’ve learned about many new-to-me books.

      This batch of reader comments had me laughing more than usual. I do enjoy random!

      Liked by 1 person

  27. I’be re-read lots of books. Sometimes several years will go by and I will decide that a particular book should be visited again. I usually find nuances and depth that I missed the first time. However, we just re-homed most of our books by selling them to a used book store. We are downsizing ahead of my retirement and felt it was time to pass many of them on. We have kept the cook books and many of my early flying manuals though. And yes, put a blurb on the back of the book, not a one-liner from a reviewer!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lynette, I agree that when you reread a book, something different strikes you about it and therein, for me at least, is why I reread a few books. We’ve been slowly downsizing our book collection, too. Not because we’re moving but because it seems like it’s time to make some space in the house.

      I know that one-liner reviews are currently the done thing, but they don’t draw me to a book. In fact they say to me “forget this book entirely.” Oh well

      Liked by 1 person

  28. I’ve reread so many books and plays! Jane Eyre is definitely on my list along with all of Jane Austen’s work. The Great Gatsby and Romeo and Juliet. I no longer pay attention to the reviews of new novels – I generally read the first few pages and make up my mind. I just went through my book shelves and you should see the pile I have going to the library!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jan, I hadn’t thought about rereading plays, but those are book-ish enough to qualify for this exercise in rereading. I do the same thing as you when I’m deciding on whether to read a book, the one-line reviews on the back mean little to me.

      Like

  29. As a general rule, I very rarely reread books. Like LA, there are so many to read out there. That said, I have read Jane Eyre twice and am currently re-reading the Lord of the Riings – BUT, the reason is because a blogger started this last year (we read book one last year and are on book two this year… half a chapter per week, and then we discuss it on her blog.) It’s been interesting reading other readers’ insights and it’s been a fun experience.
    I’m not really into audio books but I have started so that my walks (for walks sakes and not photographic expeditions) go by faster. I absolutely fell in love with the reader of “West With the Night” by Beryl Markham and read by Julie Harris. Oh my goodness. I loved it so much, I want to now READ it.
    I cannot stand the reviews on the backs. Gimme a nice synopsis and I’ll make my own mind up about the book!
    I am currently reading Mrs. Dalloway – third attempt and have gotten the furthest this time. It’s one of those books that you cannot read with half a mind. Which, I realised, I was doing. Bloody hell, Vigina Woolfe loved looooong sentences. It probably would be best to read it in one fell swoop as it takes place over one day and has zero chapters so you never can take a decent break at a clear point. However, I’m actually enjoying it now that I watched the old movie with Vanessa Redgrave. (Books and movies are separate and I usually prefer to watch the movie first and read second because this way, I am never disappointed and love each for what they are. )
    I just finished beta reading a friend’s book so will be searching for something new.
    I love posts like this because I take note of titles!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dale, I take your and LA’s point about all the new books out there, just waiting to be consumed. We all read what gives us joy. Your blogging reading group about Lord of the Rings is a unique way to tackle those books. I can imagine that you’re getting lots of insights. I don’t do much with audio books, or at least I haven’t up to this point. Never say never, and all that.

      Yep, Virginia Woolf is a wordy woman. I read Mrs. Dalloway way back when, but have never felt compelled to reread it. The older I get the more I like crisp moderately short sentences. I’ve not seen the movie with Vanessa Redgrave, but it’d have to be good.

      I’m pleased you like posts like this one. It’s fun to ask people about their book preferences because it elicits so many different replies– and a list of books for future reading.

      Liked by 1 person

      • I actually envy those who enjoy rereading their books and getting new insights every time. It’s been really fun to read LOTR this way. And yeah, I always said never to audio books but was so very surprised to get into this one. Stanley Tucci’s Taste was another one (which I ended up buying coz there are recipes!)

        She really was. Good gawd. It takes effort to read her. I’ve got to be in the mood…

        I do! Like that list (reading) will ever get shorter!

        Liked by 1 person

          • It was so good! and when he gets into something and lets out a long drawn out fuuuuuuck… you know what he was describing was beyond delicious. His favourite word, however, is HOWEVER! 😉

            Liked by 1 person

    • Awakening Wonders, I’ve reread some classics, some more modern books that *perhaps* someday will be considered classics. BUT most of my reading is once through then no more. I like to put more modern books I’m finished with in a Free Little Library. 🤓

      Liked by 1 person

  31. I only re-read novels when I was in grad school going for MA degree in Literature. I stopped reading novels after that. Too many words for my short attention span brain. I tend to read and re-read poetry.
    Just reading your list reminded me of my one interesting story of crossing paths with Tom Robbins. My twin brother and I actually gave him a ride one evening from a small concert venue to the place where he was staying many years ago. Here’s a link to a blog post I did about it.
    https://newdharmabums.blogspot.com/2020/07/friday-music-story-and-song.html

    Liked by 1 person

    • Robin, no more novels for you! You put in your time and have freed yourself from them. I’m enjoying that insight into who you are. Your story of meeting Tom Robbins is memorable and delightfully unexpected, both at the time for you, and as something more to know about you as a blogger. Trippy is as trippy does.

      Like

    • Danny, I get what you’re saying. I often watch Season 1 of a TV series then no more. I figure I got the gist of it, so why not go find something else to watch. I can understand that approach with books, too.

      Liked by 1 person

  33. Listening to a book is not reading. I don’t even like reading books on my iPad. I want to feel the paper and turn the pages. No way a movie can be considered reading a book. Way to many changes. Re-reading is something that I hadn’t done much of for the reason mentioned above, I have so many new to me books on my shelves. That said, there are a few that I have re-read, sometimes as part of the PopSugar challenge I do each year as it fills a category. Little Women is my all time fave to re-read. I did just also get Alice in Wonderland to re-read as well. Happy Tuesday!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janet, I agree with you. I like knowing there is the option to listen to a book, but don’t consider it the same as reading. And the whole idea that seeing a movie is like reading also baffles me.

      I know there are so many new-to-me books out there to read but occasionally I want to curl up with an old friend, hence this list. I hope you enjoy rereading Alice in Wonderland. It makes me smile whenever I reread it.

      Liked by 1 person

  35. Hi, Ally – I love your list of rereads. Although I seldom reread books, there have been some exceptions, noteably A Walk in the Woods (Bryson), Travels with Charlie (Steinbeck) and Alice in Wonderland. Actually, I just reread Alice in Wonderland for the third time. So many rabbit holes there (literally and figuratively)! ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    • Donna, obviously I like Alice in Wonderland, it’s the right kind of rabbit hole. I’ve read A Walk in the Woods and Travels with Charlie, but never reread them. I enjoyed them, though. It’s been fascinating to learn which books commenters find worthy of rereading.

      Like

  36. I have a bookcase full of books that my husband built for me that I weeded about a year ago. I only kept those that I have read more than once or that I plan to read again. Many are by excellent Canadian authors who I considered my teachers when I was writing myself. The rest I let go. The bookcase went from overflowing to almost full. At the moment though, I am reading to be entertained, and reading on my iPad. These books will someday be deleted. They just don’t have the style or depth or lovely sentences that a really well-written book has. That doesn’t mean they are not good. They are just not inspiring as examples of excellent writing, but I am not looking for that anymore. Instead, they are relaxing.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jenn, your bookcase sounds like it’s delightful, a reflection of you and what you plan on doing. I like this idea. I don’t often read on my iPad or Kindle. I’ve tried to like them but I forget what I’ve read almost instantly. Put a real book in my hands and I’m all into it.

      I know what you mean about reading for relaxation versus reading to learn how to craft a good sentence. There’s a difference. I’m finding that the older I get the less I want to read flower-y wordy novels, leaning into more streamlined get-to-the-point novels. That’s quite an admission from an English major!

      Liked by 1 person

  37. Q1. Do you ever reread books? Why or why not?
    A1. Do audiobooks count? Because lately, I’ve been “re-listening” a few novels. I own so many books that I haven’t read yet so I’m not likely to do any rereading. In fact, the only rereading I ever did was when I was studying literature in college. While I enjoy reading, I’m trying to forget those days of analyzing everything I read.

    Q2. Now that I’ve revealed which books I’ve read more than once, do you feel like you’ve gotten a glimpse into my heart? OR do you think Mauriac’s idea is dubious at best?
    A2. Oh, Ally, I think your heart is still a private affair. Obviously, you have good taste in books so, if taste resides in the heart, then Mauriac might have been on to something.

    Q3. What say you about “lame one-liner reviews” currently popular on the back covers of novels?
    A3. It’s all marketing. Rather than sell the content of the book, the writer needs to show that other writers (especially well-known writers) like or (ideally) love the book. Thank goodness, the one-liner reviews haven’t taken over the inside flaps which is what I read to get a summary of the book and a short bio of the author.

    Q4. What book are you currently reading? Is this the first time you read it OR are you rereading it?
    A4. I’m fixing to start reading The Oyster War, a nonfiction book that I started last May but then put aside because of family stuff.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Marie, I’ve never thought about re-listening to books. That’s clever of you. I remember those college days of [over?] analyzing literature and like you am not into doing that now.

      So my heart remains hidden. I’m not convinced I believe Mauriac’s idea to begin with, but it does make for a good topic for conversation. I’d never thought about what rereading a books says about you.

      I agree that the one-liner reviews are marketing. I think it’s a way for publishers to use ‘influencers’ to sell the book. Heaven forbid the casual potential reader have the opportunity to decide for herself if the book is worth buying.

      I’ve not heard of The Oyster War, but I hope you find it enjoyable and informative and worth your time now.

      Liked by 1 person

  38. A lot of books that I’ve reread are ones from my childhood: “Max and Moritz” by Wilhelm Busch, “Alvin’s Secret Code” by Clifford B. Hicks, a book callred “There’s Adventure In Electronics” by I forget who, and a couple of others.

    Liked by 1 person

    • John, interesting to know you reread books that are from your childhood. I don’t do that, but for no good reason I can give you. I adore how you know the names of your favorites. I’ve heard of none of them.

      Liked by 1 person

  39. It’s interesting how different we all are. I don’t think I’ve ever re-read a whole book, but have re-read parts of them, often the ending or a part I didn’t think I quite understood. Or a section that I particularly liked. A couple of examples of that: Boys in the Boat (non-fiction), The Art of Racing in the Rain, Ordinary Grace, Tale for the Time Being, Project Hail Mary, Station 11. I’m sure there are others but they aren’t coming to mind!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margaret, I’ve never thought to reread parts of books– well since I got out of college I suppose. I’ve not read any of the books you mention, which plays into your first sentence. When it comes to reading for enjoyment everyone goes off in her own direction.

      Like

  40. I don’t buy books and only get books from the library. Sometimes I “accidentally” reread a book as I don’t always remember all of the books I have read. I read a lot of mysteries and sometimes I will realize that a story is familiar as I read it, but if I cannot remember “who done it” I will finish the whole book.
    I do have 3 small books that I keep on my dresser between pretty bookends: To Kill A Mockingbird, Charlotte’s Web, and The World According to Mister Rogers. I have read and reread these books over many years.
    Right now I am reading Dangerous Women by Hope Adams and I am so curious to find out what will happen…

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ellen D, I’m sure I’ve done what you mention, that is accidentally reread [or start to reread] a book I’ve picked up at the library. The titles get scrambled in my mind, so many sound similar.

      I like knowing which three books that you reread. I’ve read the first two, but not the Mister Rogers one. Dangerous Women sounds intriguing. I wonder if the story is meant to be inspirational or a cautionary tale? 😊

      Like

  41. What a delightful list! I have some (re)reading to do. I confess to feeling like I don’t have enough time to read these days so I rarely reread anything but I did just reread The Great Gatsby. It’s a delicious pleasure because the book is never the same the subsequent time(s), is it?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Wynne, you said it: It’s a delicious pleasure because the book is never the same the subsequent time(s)…. That’s my experience with rereading, which makes each book seem fresh and new.

      Liked by 1 person

  42. I wqs a prolific re-reader as a kid, but rarely now. I think it was because I was regularly reading above my ability to fully comprehend, and so re-reading could sometimes feel like I was experiencing a different book. I liked seeing things I hadn’t previously. Two books I re-read multiple times back in the day: To Kill a Mockingbird and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I last read Mockingbird when they published Lee’s “prequel” and I have to say, I saw it very differently than I once did. Maybe that is the mark of a good book–one that can stay meaningfully with you over time?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Rita, I was a prolific reader when I was a teenager but never reread anything. I was all about the next best thing. I read To Kill a Mockingbird and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn back then and am sure I’d see them differently now. I agree with you: “the mark of a good book [is] one that can stay meaningfully with you over time.” Hear, hear!

      Liked by 1 person

  43. I love re-reading. I actually re-read Jane Eyre this winter and was very disappointed – it has not aged well for me (at 19 I adored it; at 36, a lot of things incensed me).

    I used to re-read Swiss Family Robinson every year. I also re-read non-fiction regularly.

    I DON’T particularly like re-watching movies, though. So while I’m a big fan with favourite books, aside from some holiday favourites, I rarely re-watch movies.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Elisabeth, I know what you mean about Jane Eyre. The last time I reread it [maybe 7 years ago] I was less thrilled with her story. Times change and so do we people with them, so JE seemed odd.

      I don’t like to re-watch movies either. I thought I was the only person in the world who felt that way. There are a handful of movies I like well enough to rewatch but not many. And even then I’m rather *meh* about watching them.

      Like

    • Thank you for the warning about Jane Eyre, I will NOT re-read it and stick with my memories of it.

      And to add to re-reading, books that I truly like, I buy a physical copy of. A hardcover if I can get it, if not, softcover it is, but a I buy them as a physical copy. Nowadays I almost exclusively read ebooks, but I still buy some books after I initially read them in physical format…

      Liked by 1 person

      • EW, it’s not that the writing in Jane Eyre is not good, it’s that the take on who she is and how she saves herself falls kind of stone deaf in our world.

        I rarely read any ebook so this house has many, many physical books in it. I like that you buy a physical copy of any book you truly like. That seems sensible to me.

        Liked by 1 person

        • I have only vague memories of it (and of Wuthering Heights, which I liked even more as a wee lass 🙂 ), mostly of high romance… But I’m now kind of concerned about re-reading it, especially if it’ll seem “detached”?

          And I’m glad you feel it’s sensible behavior, some folks think I’m crazy (though maybe not because of this :P)

          Like

          • I’d guess that if you reread JE now it’d be a whole new book to you. You’re older and wiser, but Jane is still stuck where she is. Plus if you read Wide Sargasso Sea, a novel that explains who Mr. Rochester is from the point-of-view of his wife, you’ll see the whole story in a different way. 🤷‍♀️

            Like

  44. In theory, I love this idea… but in reality, it means my heart is full of murder. The books I’ve reread most frequently are the Sue Grafton alphabet murders, the Jackson Brodie mystery series by Kate Atkinson, and Tana French’s books.

    I also understand why you didn’t include children’s books, but I WANT to. They are less murdery, for one thing. I would include Goodnight Moon, The Skunk, Extra Yarn, The Little Old Man Who Could Not Read, The Old Man and the Afternoon Cat, all the Frog and Toad books, and a handful of Beatrix Potter. I would also include everything by Beverly Cleary on my list of rereads; those books live and breathe in my brain.

    Liked by 2 people

  45. Yes, emphatically I do reread! I have authors whose books I’ve reread multiple times such as Georgette Heyer, J. A. Jance, Elizabeth Goudge, Donna Leon, Deborah Crombie, Laurie King’s Mary Russell series, Rosemary Sutcliff, Mary Stewart, M. M. Kaye, Earlene Fowler, Erica Bauermeister, and more. I’ve reread Francis Mayes’ “Under the Tuscan Sun” and its sequels more than a few times, but I’ll never ever see the movie again (and only made it partway through the first time before it made me furious and I turned it off.)

    I agree that movies/TV shows and books should be considered different things. One of my sisters-in-law insists I should watch the Brunetti series (even though we don’t get that channel) but I prefer my mental image of him, his family, and everyone else in the book to whatever they’d look like on TV. Watching the LOTR was bad enough, at least in that sense, although we own all the movies. The only movie I can think of that I liked better than the book was “The Scarlet Pimpernel” with Jane Seymour which I saw before reading the book. We do love the Bourne trilogy and have watched that numerous times..

    As for children’s books, I can’t wait until our grandson is old enough (and maybe sits still long enough) to read all the children’s books I still have from when our girls grew up. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janet, you’ve read many good authors who obviously have resonated with you. I’ve never read anything by Georgette Heyer and know I want to. Thanks for the reminder. I read Under the Tuscan Sun and remember that I saw the movie later. All I recall is that it was very different from how I remembered the book.

      You raise a good point about how a person’s mental image of characters in books often differs from the way TV and movies represent them. I never thought that Micheal Landon was Pa Ingles. He didn’t fit my idea of Pa at all so the series seemed way off to me.

      Children’s books are wonderful. I hope your little wiggler slows down soon, it’ll be such fun for you.

      Like

  46. Generally, I stick to novels. Occasionally, I will re-read something on purpose either because I so enjoyed the book the first (or third) time around or because there is nothing else readily available in the house. But more likely, I’m re-reading it because I forgot that I read it before…until I’m about half way in! This happens way more often than I should admit; if it’s from the library; no big deal. But when I’ve bought the same book three different times….that irritates.

    Thanks for the shout out, Ally! Peony Watch time of the year is a big deal around here!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Gigi, I’ve done what you mention, too. I forget I’ve read a novel, buy a new one, often with a different cover on it, then kick myself when I realize what I’ve done. The Free Little Library is the benefits from those mistakes.

      I adored your comment. It made me laugh and was so understandable. I feel the same way about zinnias, I monitor those like I’m getting paid to grow them.

      Like

  47. I LOVE the premise behind this post. I absolutely agree that if a book speaks to you that much that you would reread it as an adult, I do in fact am getting a glimpse into your heart! Of the 9 that you’ve listed, if you can only pick, 2 to recommend to me, what would they be and why? I’ve read the Screw Tape letters a few times myself, that old CS Lewis was a wise man (JMHO), currently reading a series of books that we stumbled across quite serendipitously. They’re called the Dear America series, written for ages 9 to 12 Historical fiction. I believe there are like 50 of these in the series. They may have been written for elementary students, but they have totally drawn me in.

    Liked by 1 person

    • DM, I’d never thought about what rereading a book said about a person until I saw this quote. Knowing what someone rereads may not show you the whole person but it does give a glimpse.

      My 2 choices… I’d pick Alice in Wonderland because it’s a classic timeless story. Wacko people [Queen of Hearts] have forever been making rules that cause sane people [Alice] to wonder… and move along.

      I’d also suggest I Capture the Castle, a coming of age tale about a young girl in rural England who quietly observes her nutty semi-famous family, then writes about them and her relationship to them. She’s a shrewd observer and grows up along the way, in spite of them.

      I’ve not heard of the Dear America series but it sounds fascinating, and prolific.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Thank you! I need to check out Alice in Wonderland. not even sure if I ever read the book. (saw the movie as a kid) but not through the eyes of an adult. You planted a couple of seeds

        Liked by 1 person

  48. Oh gosh, I reread a lot! Novels and non-fiction, depending on my mood. Mostly novels though. Some novels are so comforting and just make me feel good. In the non-fiction realm, I have reread a few David Sedaris books, and in fiction, I’ve read everything Margaret Atwood and Alice Munro ever wrote several times. I’ve lost count how many times I’ve read EM Delafield’s Diary of a Provincial Lady. I read Little Women 1000000 times (only small exaggeration), and all the Anne and Emily books, and Little House books. I think there is something so beautiful about picking up an old favourite and losing yourself in it.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicole, I like to reread a few books, but you’ve got it going on. Why am I not surprised? I like rereading novels that seem like getting together with old friends, which the ones you mention would be. I’d forgotten about the Little House books that my mother read to me first, then I later read on my own. A child’s version of rereading, I guess.

      Like

    • Neil, the title of those books sound like they’re delightful novels, so no matter which you choose you’ll be doing great. I know of Patchett and Dillard but not Mottley.

      Liked by 1 person

  50. I read True Crime over and over again. Also, the first 4 books of the Shopaholic Series by Sophia Kinsella.. unfortunately, they aren’t funny anymore after those 4. I think she lost her rhythm.
    I am reading ‘Into The Forest’now. It’s my first time. As for your list, I own and have read “Winnie -The-Pooh’ over and over.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Midlife Cat Lady, I’ve never read anything by Sophia Kinsella, but I know her name. I’d guess it’d be quite a burden to write any ongoing series and keep the standard high. Winnie-the-Pooh is one of my favorite books. Gotta love Pooh Bear!

      Liked by 1 person

  51. Oh my gosh, I wish I had time to read all the comments. I love that Alice in Wonderland was at the top of your list – it would be at the top of mine, too. Along with The Chronicles of Narnia, A Wrinkle in Time, and the Harry Potter series. The Mirror by Marlys Milheiser. Replay by ??. I recently read Jane Eyre for the first time and loved it. Can’t get into Jane Austen but I love movies based on her work. (You HAVE to see “Lost in Austen”!!).

    I don’t reread nonfiction, but refer to it. It’s also the type of book I usually buy, partly for that reason, and partly because sometimes it takes me so long to read!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Eilene, Alice in Wonderland is one of those books I think of every so often when I find myself in some absurd situation and realize the situation feels like it could be in the book. I know of all the books you mention except The Mirror. I like Jane Austen’s novels, read some, but not enough to reread any of them. I’m with you, though, about watching movies based on Austen’s work.

      Well said about how you use nonfiction. I do the same thing, now that I think on it. It becomes reference.

      Liked by 1 person

    • EW, enjoy. It’s fun to learn who reads what. If nothing else the comments on this post demonstrate that reading for pleasure takes on all sorts of permutations.

      Like

  53. I have not reread a book yet, but if I do I will choose Hamnet. I’m not a fast reader and I think I don’t reread books because there are always books that I want to read but I haven’t had the chance yet. Also, I’m typically trying to carve out time to read book for book club.

    I recently finished a book by Meacham about History – the Soul of America: Better Angels (not exactly the title, but close). It was good, but I wasn’t interested in reading something about history so it dragged and I could NOT read more than a page before nodding off each night.

    I’m currently reading Slow Horses. I’ve just started it, but I don’t think it’s about horses. The beginning confused me, but I think I’m starting to get into it. I do prefer an overview of the book vs. high praise from other authors. What an excellent point.

    Your rereads do say a bit about you – that you are a deep thinker. Am I right?

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ernie, I’m a slow reader too. I get your need to read for book club and forego rereading for yourself. There’s only so much time.

      History can be a drag when the book is too factual and serious. I don’t read many books that are straight up nonfiction for that reason.

      So far on one in the comments has thought that one-liner reviews were of much value. I thought I was the only one with issues about those gushy happy one line reviews.

      I am a thinker, maybe deep, I guess. I’ve been told that I’m a philosopher by nature so my list of reread books says that. Funny how Mauriac’s idea panned out.

      Like

  54. I love Christie Hawkes random thought about the coffee ice cubes.

    I don’t reread books, although I do keep good books on my shelves and every so often read parts of them again to help me remember. I tried rereading Crime and Punishment, which I first read ages ago. This time I got about a third of the way through and found that it was longer and more detailed than I’d remembered. It was getting boring, so I quit. Maybe I’m afraid to reread books that I enjoyed in case I find they weren’t as good as I thought.

    I totally agree about the one-line reviews on the back of the book.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicki, Christie made me laugh out loud with her comment, the epitome of random. I had to share it here.

      I’ve never read Crime and Punishment. I’ve read about it, of course. And know that it is way beyond my pay grade. I admire you for reading it once, let alone trying to read it again.

      You raise a good point about why some people may not want to reread books. It would be disappointing to discover one of your favorites no longer resonated with you.

      Like

  55. Do you ever reread books? Why or why not? Yes, but not all the time as I get a kick out of reading new information. I have reread many non-fiction books though. On the other hand, as I read your reread list, a few on your list I have reread too. AA Milne is a fav of mine.

    Now that I’ve revealed which books I’ve read more than once, do you feel like you’ve gotten a glimpse into my heart? YES – your whimsical & snarky heart. OR do you think Mauriac’s idea is dubious at best? I think it is an idea that helps one reflect.

    What say you about “lame one-liner reviews” currently popular on the back covers of novels? Yeah…I agree they are lame, but still, I read them as a challenge…”Well, let me see if that’s true or not.”

    What book are you currently reading? Is this the first time you read it OR are you rereading it? I’m currently reading In The Lonely Backwater by Valerie Nieman. The cover contains 3 one-liner reviews. Maggie is quite the character and the reason I did choose to read the book.

    The random quotes made me smile! Nice choices to share 😁

    Liked by 1 person

    • Shelley, it’s been interesting to learn who rereads books and what type of books that person rereads. Who doesn’t love Pooh Bear and need to reread him every so often?

      I agree that Mauriac’s idea does lead to self-reflection so it’s a good one. I’m whimsical and snarky, eh? I love that.

      You read one-liner reviews as challenges! Oh that is a wonderful way to use them to your benefit. I’m not familiar with the book you’re reading.

      Am happy that the random comments made you smile. I do so enjoy what people say in the comments here and feel compelled to share some of the comments once in a while.

      Liked by 1 person

  56. I think I’d have the same “glimpse into your heart” if you just told me those nine books were your favorite books of all time. I don’t think you rereading them alters that for me.

    I agree that a summary is much more useful. Any author can find SOMEONE who likes their book and who will provide a blurb, so those are less useful to me.

    Coincidentally, in the last year or so I reread my two favorite books: Snowflower and the Secret Fan (which I liked a just a tiny bit less upon rereading) and Follow the River.

    Liked by 1 person

  57. I don’t tend to re-read books, because I’ve *SO* many books I want to read and nowhere near enough time to read them all, that it feels like a waste of time. The only times I’ve re-read books has been for comfort reasons – and for those, I select Harry Potter or the horse business related thrillers of Dick Francis (now deceased). What that says about me & my heart, I leave to others to diagnose. I did once re-read a book I’d loved (A Suitable Boy from Vikram Seth) only to not love it as much the second time round. So, that’s another reason – the fear that I might not love it on repeat. Although I find children’s books can always stand repeating 😉

    Boo to meaningless reviews, yay to good summaries.

    I loved Gigi Rambles’s random thought about her peonies so much that I’ve rushed over to follow her as a result – you’re quite the blogging matchmaker Ally Bean 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, I understand your reasoning about not rereading books. I don’t do it every month or year even, but the few I listed are to me old friends to revisit every once in a while. I feel the same way about letting other people decide who I am based on my rereading!

      Gigi is a wonderful old-school blogger who just tells you what’s up. I adore her. Thanks for the compliment about being a blogging matchmaker. I try to be a connector, not by telling people what to do, but by offering the opportunity to get to know each other.

      Liked by 1 person

  58. I read Through the Looking Glass rather than Alice in Wonderland because i wrote an essay on the former. Though I have reread AIW. I generally reread books I love. Nowadays, I’ve taken to rereading books more and more, because I haven’t enjoyed some of the modern books. I regularly reread The Ordinary Princess by MM Kaye and The Princess and Curdie by George MacDonald. Lord of the Rings has been another frequent reread. Terry Pratchett’s Discword books also are often reread and passed to friends who also love them.

    I agree about the reviews on the backs of books. I am seldom swayed by those reviews and wish publishers would give more information about the book.

    Like

    • L. Marie, I remember reading Through the Looking Glass in college, but never picked it up again. I suppose I should revisit it. For balance, ‘ya know! MM Kaye I’ve heard of but never read anything by, however George MacDonald is new to me.

      I sometimes feel like I don’t enjoy newer novels, too. I can’t decide if I’m too old for them, or too cynical for them, or if they’re just badly written. In any case, I lay them aside.

      I truly thought I was the only one who was miffed by one-liner reviews but I’m finding out I’m not alone. No one seems to like them, yet there they are.

      Liked by 1 person

  59. Not only do I reread books, but I reread books I’ve already reread. “Rascal” by Sterling North is a great example of a recent reread; it was one of my childhood faves, and I enjoyed it just as much all these years later.

    I’m currently reading “Now is Not the Time to Panic” by Kevin Wilson. First time, but if I like it, there may very well be a second time.

    Like

    • Mark, for those of us who reread books it seems so natural to do so, but many commenters aren’t into it. It’s not like there is a right or wrong way to read for pleasure.

      I don’t know either book you mention but am pleased that you are enjoying again and enjoying for the first time a couple of books. Readers gotta read.

      Liked by 1 person

  60. I’ve re-read lots of books over the years, but it’s haphazard. A few re-read as an adult:

    To Kill A Mockingbird
    Sense & Sensibility
    Pride & Prejudice
    A Christmas Carol
    The Pickwick Papers
    The Moonstone
    Emma
    Northhangar Abbey
    The Great Gatsby ~ disliked it as an adult as much as I did in H.S. 😀
    Mary Poppins ~ the whole series
    Persuasion
    Alice in Wonderland & Through the Looking Glass
    The Hobbit
    1984
    Brave New World
    Animal Farm
    The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe
    Winnie-The-Pooh
    Little Women
    The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
    Huckleberry Finn
    Thomasina
    Green Eggs & Ham ~ preparatory to playing the lead role in a stage production!
    Heidi ~ whole series
    The Importance of Being Ernest
    Peter Pan
    The Thorn Birds
    Charlotte’s Web
    Great Expectations
    A Tale of Two Cities
    Watership Down
    One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest ~ to see if the ending had changed
    Cloud Atlas
    The Crucible

    I rarely re-read new releases.
    Guess that makes me a Classy Classic kind of gal! 😀

    One recent re-read:

    The Help ~ Book, Movie, Book

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nancy, that’s a long list and all good ones, if’n you asked me. Laughing about The Great Gatsby. I rather liked it in high school, but haven’t read it since so my opinion might have changed.

      As the lead in Green Eggs & Ham which part did you play… and how? And I have to ask, has the ending changed in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest?!!

      I’ve not read The Help nor seen the movie. I am forever behind the times, but hopefully a Classy Classic like you.

      Like

      • I liked Great Gatsby better in high school than as an adult . . . but only a bit. The characters seem so incredibly shallow, boring, and pretentious. Of course, for many, that might be the “rags to riches” charm of the book.

        In 1997, I won the lead role in a musical adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham as the Grouch!

        I do not like them, Sam-I-Am!
        I do not like Green Eggs and Ham!
        Not in a box
        Not with a fox
        Not in a boat
        Not with a goat

        Sadly, the ending of Cuckoo’s Nest remains unchanged ~ McMurphy is given a lobotomy for his attack on Nurse Ratched. When he is returned to the ward after the operation, he is a vegetable. That night, Chief Bromden suffocates McMurphy with a pillow. He throws the control panel through a window screen and escapes from the hospital, hitching a ride with a trucker. Ratched, the sadistic sociopath remains ever-ready to destroy other lives.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Yes the characters in Gatsby were shallow and vapid, but I think that’s why I was fascinated. So not me.

          You played the Grouch! Oh that is a hoot and a half as they used to say where I come from. In elementary school Z-D was the narrator for his school play of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. I bet get a few drinks in you two and all of Suess would come spilling out.

          Ratched = sociopath to the end, eh? Same as it ever was.

          Like

  61. I re-read Sedaris, Fulghum and a few others. I think what you write, Ally, gives me a better glimpse of who you are! 🙂 In order to figure out if you’re gonna like a book or not, nothing beats opening it up in the middle, reading a paragraph, and then flipping through and doing that once more before you decide. I just bought and was reading a book that I thought was going to be humorous. I was wrong. It was about humor. Reading a book about humor is not the same as reading a humorous book. I should have flipped through the book before I bought it. *sigh* I’ve been writing about that. Now, I’m back to re-reading Sedaris’s book, Naked, until I get out to the library. Tired of wasting money on “sure deals” like the book I bought that turned out not to be funny! 😦

    Liked by 1 person

    • Mona, those are two good authors to reread. I’d forgotten about Fulghum, but at one time he gave me the confidence I needed to feel good about myself.

      I like your approach to picking a book to read. The middle of a book does show you what an author is all about more than a one-line review on the back. Sorry you bought an unfunny book that was supposed to be funny. That’s not funny at all.

      Like

  62. Since you reread these particular books, I’ll assume they’re favorites?
    I’ve heard of all of these, but have only read a few myself. I can only think of three adult books that I’ve reread, but if we could count children’s books, there are about 35 that I’ve read about 675 times. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suz, I didn’t add children’s books you reread to children for that very reason. 675, sure, sounds about right! You may reread them, but I suspect that Mauriac wasn’t thinking about those types of books.

      Liked by 1 person

  63. What I generally reread tends to be fact/fun trivia/opinion based on subjects I take an interest in… which I realize isn’t really the main focus of this post, but that’s my honest answer. I generally didn’t like reading novels (or what they made us read) in high school, and that’s carried over into my adult life.

    Liked by 1 person

    • evilsquirrel13, you reread by subject not genre. That seems sensible to me. I’m sure if I were to look at the big picture of which novels I read I’d figure out what subjects appeal to me, but I’m not gonna do that. With a hat tip to Mauriac, I’m self-aware enough, thank you very much.

      Like

  64. Pingback: Advice from Ray Bradbury | bleuwater

    • Crystal, I can understand why you’ve reread what you have. I’d forgotten about I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings yet know that I enjoyed it when I read it years ago. I’ll reread sometime soon, seems like the time is right now.

      Liked by 1 person

  66. Wow – this got me thinking Ally. I don’t think I’ve ever re-read a book for pleasure, just for school. The first time I read “Sons and Lovers” by D.H. Lawrence in college I really enjoyed it, but the second, third or fourth time, plus writing about themes and analogies, it became a chore to read it still one more time. Likewise “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair – fascinating, the first time. I read a lot of books in those college days, then vowed to only read what I wanted to read once school was done. I am now trying to incorporate more reading into my schedule, but it doesn’t always work out – if I read a book, I get behind here. I used to watch the Christmas specials for kids every year and enjoyed them – I probably knew large portions of dialogue by heart, but, I have never seen “White Christmas” or even “It’s a Wonderful Life” in their entirety let alone watching them as an annual holiday ritual as many people do.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, I read lots of classics in college, too. Once I got my degree I, like you, said I’ll only read what I want to read going forward. I know what you mean about the give and take between reading books for pleasure AND having the time and energy to read blog posts. Some days it is one or the other.

      I don’t often intentionally rewatch movies. There are a few I really like, but they aren’t necessarily Christmas ones. I do admire people who have their holiday movie rituals, they seem to get much joy from them.

      Like

      • Our family never got into the classic Christmas movies; my parents were more into watching the annual Perry Como or Andy Williams Christmas specials. I rented “Murphy’s Romance” with James Garner and Sally Field one time from Blockbuster. My mom and I enjoyed it so much we decided to buy the movie. Not something we usually did, but it is a “feel good movie” we’d watch maybe once a year.

        Liked by 1 person

          • That was a feel-good movie … they could have left the ex-husband out of it IMO. I had some digital credits from Amazon expiring on June 15th, so I watched one movie last night. It was a tearjerker. I have mentioned to you before that I like Nicholas Sparks’ books and I had not read “The Notebook” nor seen the movie. I really enjoyed it. Coincidentally, James Garner was in this movie too, not long before he died. I looked at some reviews and the movie did not follow the book to the letter, so I’ll likely get the book, which was Sparks’ first book.

            Liked by 1 person

  67. I don’t think I’ve ever re-read a book, non-fiction or fiction, unless by mistake. The reason being that there are so many books I want to read, I want to be surprised/awed with new books, maybe no book worths me to re-read yet. I do re-watch movies sometimes because it brings back memories of the time I watched it for the first time. these are
    the notebook
    before sunset
    sex and city series

    Liked by 1 person

    • coco, many commenters have said that they don’t reread books for the reason you mention. I understand that, it’s not like we all have to read for pleasure in the same ways. The funny thing to me is that the reason you rewatch movies is the reason I reread books: to bring back memories of when I read it before.

      Like

  68. I’ve thought about this. My favorite books, the ones I re-read, have changed over time. Jane Eyre remains one of my very favorite and I’ve re-read it at least once per year practically since I first read it at age 14 or 15. It was the first book I put on my Kindle as I had listened to how the Kindle was supposed to destroy my reading experience. I figured at if the Kindle did not destroy Jane Eyre, it would be pretty safe. And it was. Oddly, I haven’t read it in about six years. In some ways, reading Jasper Fforde’s Thursday Next series makes up for not reading Jane Eyre recently.

    During my sci-fi years, I read all the Foundation books in the chronological reading order at least a couple times. I’m only finding 15 books on the list and I feel relatively certain there were a lot more than that. By the end, Asimov had tied all of this fiction into the Foundation universe and it was quite fun to catch references between the books and short stories.

    Also during the sci-fi years I read Piers Anthony’s Robot Adept series several times. It remains a favorite that I return to when I’m in that mood. It bears some similarity to the books I currently re-read which all focus on the characters and their lives rather than crimes or mysteries, even if that is also part of the story. I like stories about people and I tend to love lengthy series that mean I never have to let go of my favorite characters.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Zazzy, I’ve not read Jane Eyre as often as you have and am entertained by the idea that it was your bellwether for your Kindle experience. Have you read Wide Sargasso Sea, a novel that made me think about JE in a different way?

      I don’t read sci-fi unless some of the Douglas Adams books count. Maybe? I’d guess that by reading complete series like you have you must feel that some characters are kindred spirits. Like when you watch TV shows because you relate to one particular character.

      I am the opposite of you, I don’t want to follow a book character for a long time, instead I’m nosy about someone new… although years ago I read all the Miss Marple series and the Spenser series so maybe I just need the *right* character to follow. 🤔

      Like

      • I’ve thought differently about Jane Eyre many times over the years. Although I still love the novel, it’s on my list as one of the top unhealthy romances. Romeo and Juliet, Heathcliff and Catherine, and Jane and Mr. Rochester. I like to compare them to the Twilight saga since Bella and either Edward or Jacob are equally unhealthy. What is it with our popular obsession with people who would be better off not in the relationship? At any rate, I am now curious about Wide Sargasso Sea and will put it on my list.

        Am I understanding properly that you would rather see one good movie than to follow the same characters in a long term television show? Or maybe not even multiple movies? I can see either side as even my most favorite TV shows could disappear tomorrow and I wouldn’t particularly care. I like Grey’s Anatomy but I think it’s well past it’s “best by” date.

        The wonderful thing is that there are so many books out there that are worth reading that if you don’t care for one, or one series, you may find another you love. I didn’t care for Miss Marple, I always considered the solutions as cheating. You get to the last page and Christie introduces the second cousin of a long dead uncle who just randomly ends up in the village killing the poor victim. They are clever stories with good characters, just don’t cheat on the ending.

        Like

        • Sorry not clear there. I’ll watch TV shows forever if I like a character [Penny in The Big Bang Theory for instance], but I rarely follow a movie franchise or a book series with the same characters in them… my exception being mystery book sleuths but even then not many of them.

          Liked by 1 person

  69. Your comment at the top about re-reading cookbooks made me burst out laughing. I’ve probably only re-read a handful of books. The one at the top of that list is a collection from my childhood, Elizabeth Enright’s “The Melendy Family,” which my sibs and I all read with abandon. I’ve never read “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance” for some reason. There’s still time, of course. – Marty

    Liked by 1 person

  70. Marty, well technically rereading a cookbook is rereading but I suspect that wasn’t what Mauriac had in mind with this quote. But then again who am I to sell him short? I don’t know about The Melendy Family but it must have held your attention. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is kind of deep, decidedly odd, but makes me think about life, things, from a different angle whenever I read it. I like to think.

    Like

  71. Gosh I’ve reread a lot of books. The Lord of the Ring trilogy out loud twice in the vehicle. The Harry Potter series. Anne of Green Gables and Emily of New Moon. Marilla. The Outlander series. Winds of War. War and Peace. Gosh I think I could go on. Lucky for me I am a fairly quick reader. Bernie

    Liked by 2 people

  72. I don’t typically re-read books. I admit that I have by accident a couple of times when I chose a book I didn’t at first remember reading, but once I got into it realized it was familiar. That said, I think I want to re-read Charlotte’s Web. It’s been so long, and I loved that book. Also, I haven’t read some of the books on your list, so I am going to check them out. Hey, if they are good enough for you to read twice, that’s a heck of a recommendation.

    Also, thanks for including me on your highlighted randomness comments. Now I really feel like a cool kid!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Christie, I know many people don’t reread books, accidental rereading aside. I haven’t read Charlotte’s Web since I was a girl. It was a favorite of mine. The books on my list are eclectic, but for some reason, or maybe many reasons, they call to me.

      Oh you are definitely one of the cool kids. I adored your comment. I smiled about it all day.

      Like

  73. I completely agree with you that books and movies are completely different, and comparing them is like comparing apples and oranges. It may be the same story, but that’s where the similarities end, in my opinion. As for re-reading books, I have four bookshelves full of books in my house, and I only keep books that I enjoy reading more than once. Being enjoyable the second (and third…) time is the mark of a good book, in my opinion.

    Liked by 1 person

  74. Interesting idea. I reread a lot; I find it comforting. I spent a large part of last summer re-reading a whole series that I kept (52 in series to date, she’s still writing) – I love the main characters. This was crime mysteries, set in the future. I have a bunch of romance novels I keep around and re-read those when I need a real comfort read. Again I like the characters. Of your 9 re-reads I’ve only ever read 4. And none read more than once. I’m wondering if I should try reading the others!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Pat, I find rereading comforting, too. Like visiting with friends. While I understand Mauriac’s idea, I don’t know for certain that you’re getting a glimpse into my heart, but maybe. Who’s to say? I’ll be the first to admit that my list of books is eclectic. So maybe that’s what’s in my heart… eclecticism. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  75. I usually re-read a few books each year but it’s rarely the same books. The books I have re-read the most are probably the LOTR series and the Little House on the Prairie books. I agree with the sentiment on the reviews emblazoned on book covers and frequently the first few pages of the book itself. I don’t pay much attention to book reviews unless I’m really on the fence about the book. I also don’t do book clubs because I just want to read what I want to read and not what someone else decides I need to read. I had enough of that in school, LOL.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, ditto about book clubs. In theory I like them, but in practice… “no thank you.” I don’t pay much attention to book reviews, I appreciate the effort but find that I’m a better judge of what’ll appeal to me. How we all come to read what we do is fascinating.

      Like

  76. 216 thoughts! I don’t know how you get through them all, Ally 🙂 Just wanted to add, I rarely reread books BUT I do keep a small hardback collection of those which have somehow endeared themselves to me, and I expect (even in a rocking chair) I will read them again someday. “The White Mountains” trilogy (John Christopher) is the perfect example. A three-book story ahead of its time, that I first read in the 1970’s. I keep waiting for it to show up on the big screen, though as you say, nothing replaces the printed word.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dave, I’m not sure how I handle all the comments either, but I do. Or at least I hope I do: if I miss anyone it’s not on purpose, just an accident. I like your idea of having some books around that you really liked, planning to reread them in your later years. I’m not familiar with The White Mountain trilogy, but who knows… it might become a movie yet.

      Like

  77. I love to re-read books, though I tend to do that more with books I read long ago, not so much more recent books. I think I may be due to re-read Screwtape Letters, I haven’t read it in such a long time and I did very much enjoy it. Having said that, in the last few years, I have gotten pretty happy about listening to audiobooks, and often I will listen to those over again. Sometimes right after I finish them. My mind wanders too much as I’m out taking my walk, and I realize I’ve missed things. So I like to go back a second time. Not always…recently I started to re-listen and lost interest. So clearly I didn’t LOVE that book. 🙂

    I like the random comments you chose, they are great.

    Liked by 1 person

    • J., rereading books seems to be slightly controversial. Those who like to do it are comfortable with revisiting old friends, but other people want to make new friends. Or at least that’s how I think of it.

      I’ve never been able to listen to books for the reason you mention. My mind wanders and I lose plot threads. At least when I read a book when I drift off I know exactly where I left the story, down to the paragraph.

      Sometimes the comments on this blog are too good to not mention. If it makes me laugh, or think, I like to share them.

      Like

  78. I re-read a book by accident recently, I’d meant to read it but thought I hadn’t got round to it, when I reached the last couple of chapters I realised I had read it before, but it made much more of an impression the second time round (I don’t think I was ready for it the first time).

    I don’t know all the books on your list but I’ve read the alchemist (twice, again it was better the second time) and I got halfway through zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance but lost my way with it, perhaps I shall give it another go, maybe I’m ready for it this time. These books and Winnie the Pooh suggest to me you’re a deep soul.

    I’ve heard it said that Winnie the Pooh was inspired by the Tao Te Ching so I’d like to give those books more attention, I never read them to my children but remember them from my childhood.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Rae Cod, you raise a good point that sometimes the first time you read something it’s okay BUT the second time you read it you’re in a different head space and the book resonates with you. I agree about The Alchemist, the first time it was a story, the second time it had meaning.

      Years back there was a book that was called something like the Tao of Pooh [?] and it connected the religion to the characters in Winnie-the-Pooh. I remember the name of the book but that’s all. It might be the source of what you’ve heard about Pooh.

      Like

  79. I am currently rereading the Outlander Series. The first book of the series came out in 1991, so 32 years ago (gasp) and the last book (book #9) last year… so needless to say, I needed a refresher. I started a the beginning and am currently reading book 6. It’s been great to read them all in succession again – I like to fully immerse myself in a story.

    So, in this case, I wanted to reread the books to get the story back into my head (before getting the last book) and because I remembered that I enjoyed reading the books very much the first time around. It’s amazing how much you forget, even if you LOVE a book… so I am definitely for rereading books that have made a lasting impression.

    It’s also interesting that sometimes you perceive a story differently when you read it again at a different stage of your life.

    Liked by 1 person

    • San, I know of the Outlander Series but haven’t read any of them. A good friend is crazy about those books. I can understand why you need to reread them from the beginning if you want to fully enjoy the newest, and presumably last, book in the series.

      I agree that when you reread a book you see it differently than when you read it the first time. You’ve changed along the way so the story hits in a new way. For me that’s part of the appeal to rereading any book.

      Like

  80. Ally, what an interesting post and it certainly has grabbed everyone’s imagination – I ended up reading all the comments too! As I child I would avidly reread books but as an adult I’ve left behind this luxury alas. However, Joanna Harris books are an exceptionand I’ve reread a couple of hers.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Annika, I’ve been amazed + pleased by how this topic landed well with many different people. It’s one of those issues that doesn’t have a right or wrong, just nuanced perspectives about rereading books. I like Harris’s writing, too. I need to read more books by her.

      Liked by 1 person

  81. I must be one the few people that has re-read Winnie the Pooh about forty times. Mainly because it is one of the few books I had to read as a child. I cannot say that the list says anything about you as some of the titles aren’t familiar to me. I mistakenly re-read murder mysteries when they re-print them in a different title and cover. And it is funny you are writing about reading, as I was just reading a book about concentration ( non fiction) and how it is diminishing along with the number of books being read. Reading is a wonderful occupation. Thanks for the titles mentioned. I will explore a few of them.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Amanda, Pooh Bear makes me happy. Maybe haven’t read the book as many times as you have, but close to it! I’ve done what you’ve done, picking up a book I’ve already read because it has a new cover on it… then realizing I’ve read it.

      I admit that my ability to concentrate isn’t what it once was. I figure it might be age-related but could be because since the pandemic I’ve been reading fewer books. Bad me.

      Like

  82. Pingback: Writing Inspiration from Bradbury and Friends – Faith + Gratitude = Peace + Hope

Comments are closed.