Hi there, so short history. When I was younger I was forced to read for school. However my mom didn’t like when I read to her for practice as she had a very early morning warehouse job and was typically asleep by 6 PM. So, she’d sign the paperwork even if I hadn’t read (although I usually didn’t lie about this.) I’ve also recently (in the past 5-years or so) found out I have undiagnosed ADHD (still working on getting a professional diagnoses and possibly meds but have done extensive research to diagnose myself) All this to say I’m unfortunately a VERY picky reader. It used to be if it didn’t hook me in the first sentence I wouldn’t read it. However, I now try to give the book a paragraph before judging it.
I so desperately want to fall in love with reading again. My New Year’s resolution is to read more but I’m having a hard time knowing where to start. I appreciate any and all recommendations but I’m striving to read more books written by Black, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, and other cultures to learn more about these cultures and how I can improve my relationship and to be a part of advocacy for change.
I’ve tried starting small like reading 2-3 chapters, while listening to the audiobook before bed instead of watching videos. Also, starting with a genre that usually interests me. I’ve noticed that reading while listening to an audiobook allows me to stay focused and better comprehend what I’m reading. However, the book I started with is a mystery that is starting very slow the audiobook is also kind of terrible. There are words that are skipped or misread which distracts my ADHD and then it’s hard to get back on track. I also feel bad for saying this about the audiobook bc they got paid to produce it but it’s hella distracting. I feel like I have to finish it bc I started it and it’s apart of my new goals. However, I know this is going to have the opposite effect of what I’m trying to achieve.
TLDR: I’m a picky reader due to home life as a child. For 2024 I want to fall in love with reading again but am struggling with where to start. I’m also trying to read books from authors of different backgrounds and ethnicities to improve my relationship and better advocate for change. I prefer that recommendations have an audiobook I can follow along with for comprehension purposes.
Thank you all for your suggestions and apologies it’s a long winded post.
by EntertainmentFirm334