I‘ve been so overwhelmed with life lately and I‘m realizing that I need to start doing things I actually enjoy. I read so much as a child, but as an adult, I barely read at all because there‘s no time to do so. When I do read, it‘s exegesis and hermeneutics – these are basically academic approaches to studying the Bible, which i find interesting. But while it‘s interesting, it‘s not taking me on a journey. I haven‘t read for pleasure on a consistent basis for at least 10 years. That has to change. I think it has something to do in part with my ADHD and mental health being out of control, but I used to read so much…and now i just feel like I’m not growing or learning at all in life and it‘s so overwhelming. These times are bad for most of us and I’m just trying to find something to help me allow myself to combat anxiety by letting go and allowing other narratives into my life. I hope that makes any sense to at least 1 person!
When I read Eleanor Oliphant is Compeltely Fine during the lockdown (like 3 years ago), it was like I‘d rediscovered reading all over again…but couldn‘t find anything remotely similar to it. Here’s what I liked:
The main character (Eleanor) was going through some serious shit and it was inspiring to read her go through her mental health journey- even if it‘s not real life.
It was light-hearted enough, even though there was some really traumatic shit that happened to her.
It kept my interest and I wasn‘t left scratching my head trying to figure out what‘s going on. I like books that require me to use my brain a little bit, but i don‘t want to think too hard.
I used to REALLY love Stephen King. His books can be kind of heavy though and I‘m looking for something much more lighthearted. I love „Spin“ by Robert Charles Wilson and enjoy SciFi in general. Though I couldn‘t make it through Dune all the way (movies are awesome though).
Not reading has really put a hole in my soul and I just want to fall in love with it again. Thank you all for anyone who made it this far. I‘m doing my best to phrase myself in a way that makes sense but sometimes it‘s just overwhelming. Thanks again.
by waht_a_twist16
3 Comments
I liked strange Sally diamond by Liz nugent. Sally, like Elanor, is a unique character, and like the other book, everything in this one focuses around the main character. I don’t want to say too much in case you end up reading it, but in my opinion this one’s a close match.
Remarkably Bright Creatures – Shelby Van Pelt
Fredrik Backman books kind of have the same feel. Quirky characters going through stuff but written with lots of heart and humor. Specifically Anxious People, Man Called Ove, My Grandmother Asked Me…, Britt-Marie Was Here. Not the Beartown series. Different vibe.