The frisson of fear that squirms across your skin as you read a true-crime book.
The leap of awe when your favorite fantasy writer conjures up yet another otherworldly detail.
The mental nod as a compelling fact clicks its way into context as you pore over an absorbing work of nonfiction.
The reasons we read are many, and that is reason enough to celebrate National Read a Book Day on Sept. 6!
Who Has the Time to Read?
Today’s digital world is filled with likes and clicks, distractions and deadlines. Studies by the National Academy of Arts and Sciences show that the number of adults who read for pleasure is dropping. The idea that 42 percent of college graduates will never read a book again post-academia is an alarming one.
So Here’s What We Recommend
To help inspire you, we canvassed the office to find out what our staff is reading. Hopefully, you can gain some inspiration from our choices. If nothing here grabs your imagination, take a walk around your workplace and see what your co-workers are reading; ask friends what their favorites are; or forego a tired pick-up line in public and ask that intriguing stranger, “So, what are you reading?”
Valerie Dow, partner manager
“Circe by Madeline Miller. A feminist retelling of this character's story that includes encounters with familiar gods like Helios and Zeus, monsters like Scylla and wayfarers like Odysseus—but all from Circe's perspective. Her powers of witchcraft celebrate female strength in a traditionally male-centered story line.”
Carolynne Mimms, office manager
“I am currently reading the Bible! Got a lot going on, and I need to stay focused!”
Robin Sease, data systems analyst
"If you want to experience the colors of life through the lens of a mixed-race girl visiting her Taiwanese grandparents in search of her mother's history, read The Astonishing Color of After, by Emily X. R. Pan.
Paxton Brewer, designer/developer
“I’m currently reading The New York Trilogy with my book club. It is a fun and easy read, with a postmodern structure and narrative. A great book to discuss with others.”
Tommaso Boggia, web developer
“I'm rereading A Tale of Two Cities because the wealth disparity in San Francisco reminded me of the themes in that book.”
Cheryl Cline, web content editor
“My pretentious pick is Nightwood by Djuna Barnes. A contemporary of James Joyce, Barnes was largely forgotten until a few decades ago.”
Andy Guest, content strategist and photographer
“Rereading the Jack Reacher thrillers by Lee Child. Need some summer escapism.”
Dave McMahon, digital marketing manager
“Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a great, quick read. Coates’ work speaks to issues of race in America. An important and relevant read in today’s climate.”
Sarah Benzuly, director of creative services
“The Magician King by Lev Grossman. Attempting to get through the three-book series before diving into the Syfy TV version. Really interesting adult take on Harry Potter meets The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”
Just Read It
A better brain, more connection with your fellow humans, and all the joys and knowledge and sorrow that come with the world of reading. All these reading benefits are yours for the savoring. Pick up a book for National Read a Book Day!
