DECEMBER
Reading Controversial Books
I will finish off this year by talking about what some may believe controversial in reading. I read what I call social commentary books. Here’s a few examples. Books about the George Floyd scenario, riots in Minneapolis, gender transitioning, racial issues, wars in the Middle East, the Lucy Letby case and many more. You are probably thinking ‘why would she subject herself to those?’ Let me tell you.
I like to expand my horizons and thinking. If something has happened in the world (like the George Floyd incident), I like to learn both sides. There are always two sides to a story, despite what the media may have you believe. I like to understand different viewpoints and why people think that way. But it does not always come without controversy.
In 2023, I read an exceptionally well-written book called ‘The Heretics Manifesto’ by Brendan O`Neill. I read it, re-read parts, and wrote a review for my socials and my website. Then it started. Someone I had considered a friend decided that I was no longer worth talking to, simply because I had a different view to hers. Rather than discuss it civilly, it ended up with this person becoming agitated that I had agreed with the author. A friendship was lost over a book review. Some may say that it could not have been much of a friendship anyway, and perhaps they would be right, but I found this incredibly sad.
To end December’s “Ink and Inspiration,” what I want to say is, remember that controversy is good. Challenging the narrative is good. Pushing for added information in any subject is the way forward. Learn new facts, learn the other side of the story, and make your own decisions. Do not let legacy media influence you.
NOVEMBER
Every year, I would have a book reading competition with my aunty Sally. She was eight years older than me, and we were more like best friends or sisters really. We would start in January each year and every time we read a book, we’d share the title and author, as well as our thoughts on what we had read
While Sally is sadly no longer with us, my love of reading is still ever present. Each year I document all the books I’veread in the ‘Goodreads Reading Challenge.’ In 2021, I read 60 books through the years. In 2022 I read 76. In 2023, it was 61. This year I have topped out at 92. So why am I telling you this?
In the spirit of my reading and loving books, I am starting “Ink and Inspiration.” A monthly post on the 30th of each month that will talk of my latest read, its influence on me, how literature can mirror our life, and all other things bookish! Make sure you join me!
