I'm trying to get better at critical thinking and exploring themes and symbolisms in books. I often times just read and take the plot at face value without being able to dive deeper myself before reading other people's thoughts on a book. After seeing what others say, I look back and the book takes on a new meaning due to missed symbolisms. Are there any books that can captivate be while give me a good opportunity to practice deeper exploration of themes?
by Deh_Strizzz
4 Comments
*Reading Like a Writer: A Guide for People Who Love Books and for Those Who Want to Write Them* by Francine Prose would be good for this.
A little narrower, but George Saunder’s *A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life* might also be a good fit.
How to read Literature like professor. by Foster
The Queen’s Thief series, by Megan Whalen Turner. You might be an ideal audience! They’re captivating on a surface read but there’s also a lot to dig into, if you choose. The first book starts off as a pretty straightforward YA adventure/heist, and it is, but…you’ll find out.
Also, Kate DiCamillo’s children’s books. They’re that good!
From my experience, it just takes practice. Keep reading and making a conscious effort to think beyond the obvious plot. If possible, find someone to read the same book as you to discuss the themes and ideas of the book.
That being said, for more challenging books, my first read is often more surface-level because I am focusing most on what’s happening. Second reads are where I can relax and really chew on the meaning. I do the same with movies.