Not Having A Favorite Book List Is A-OK

Written on July 3, 2012 by Kaarina in Blogging, Business, Motivational and Inspirational, Musings

Not Having A Favorite Book List Is A-OKToday’s post is brought to you by Guest Blogger Jayme Soulati of Soulati Media. Once you’ve read Jayme’s post here, I encourage you to check out her website. Enjoy!

Recently, Ms. Kaarina Dillabough posted a lovely article sharing her 13 all-time fave books. (That’s my favorite number, too, Kaarina!) Her post was inspired by Gini Dietrich’s similar post, and this post is inspired by Kaarina (see how that works?).

When I read the original post right here in this house, I realized to my utter dismay, I had no fave book to add. When Kaarina asked me which book came to mind as my most fave, there were crickets.

The chirping mash up in my brain has had me befuddled since I read that post. Why can’t I come up with a favorite book list? As I was vacuuming (a rare occurrence that allows creative thinking, just like the shower) over the weekend, it dawned on me.

Public relations, or What is PR has forever ruined my ability to read and enjoy. My daily deliverables are based on reading magazines, national newspapers, websites, blog posts, news reports, business books, and white papers.

Everything I read is for a purpose; to:

  • Pitch a client’s story to media
  • Use as trends data for a client’s story
  • Learn about an industry and become more knowledgeable
  • Use in pitching new business
  • Reference as news sources for papers I write
  • Write blog posts for myself and others
  • And, so much more

On my nightstand and stacked around it are nearly three dozen books for night reading, and each is a different genre but none of them for business. At night I have to clear my brain and consume science fiction (but not all of it) or my favorite – the vampire books (heh, secret’s out).

Taking it a step further, what I read is much like how I am professionally – a strategist and problem solver. I start, start, start with creativity flaring and the finish is left for another day. I have a thirst for all things new and different and out of the box; this is why public relations is exactly the profession I should be in.

So, the ending to my story and the only reason my favorite book is Grumpy Bunnies (you can guess why, Shakirah Dawud ) , is this:

When you read, do you finish the book, devour, analyze, think about it, talk it over with friends, join a book club and debate the merits of the protagonist, and/or recommend it to a friend or colleague?

Or…

When you read, do you absorb what you need while scanning and nodding in agreement, privately think about how the tips inside resonate purposefully, mull on it as material to be referenced in a conversation one day, and/or forget the title and author?

I’m not making excuses; I want a favorite book list, too. Instead, I’m going to laugh at your jokes, listen as you recite one-liners from movies, and read the books you recommend from your list.

I think that’s your perfect yin to my yang; or is it the other way around?

Jayme Soulati is president of Soulati Media , and she blogs at Soulati-‘TUDE! She’s all over the interwebz and primarily @Soulati.

  • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

    I read a lot; when I first got in social and was trying to keep up I thought I would never find the time. However, now that I’ve backed it down somewhat I’m back to reading.

    Having said that, there are tons of books I have really enjoyed in all different types of genres. Did any make a favorite list? Well, not exactly as most I can’t even tell you the author’s name. But there were a lot of good recommendable books in there. 

    I’m not in a book club so once they are read the story just retreats into the recesses of my mind; probably lost forever. Recently I read the Girl w/ the Dragon Tattoo trilogy and really liked those 3 books. 

    I did participate at Gini’s and asked Kaarina if I could cut and paste my selection over here too.

    You are not alone, it is very difficult to recall these books.

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Good morning early bird:) @twitter-34985693:disqus , did you find the book Damage? I believe it’s a book that won’t lose itself in the recesses of your mind. Cheers! Kaarina

      • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

        I had already left the library when I got your reply; but will make sure I get it next time around. 

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Happy Fourth of July!

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Yeah; both of you dudes are early birds. I’m not posting until 8 am any more as everyone behind us is still asleep. I wonder if I can roust @neicolec:disqus 
       to stop by here?

      See my answer above to @twitter-229922134:disqus re Girl with Tat…one day when forced to really concentrate, I’m gonna master that darn book. When Gini was reading Hunger Games, I had already read those a year prior. That was true creativity.

      I took a Children’s Literature course (thought i could be a kid’s book author) and was horrified to find I can only write for news. My creativity is shot. I used to have serious creative writing skills and now? Fuhgeddaboudit…makes me bummed out.

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         Don’t be bummed: you’re plenty creative @twitter-22830278:disqus .

        I know that @ginidietrich:disqus says she finishes a book, even when she’s not enjoying it. Not me. I’m like you Jayme. When it doesn’t capture me, I leave it aside. I will go back to it and give it several more tries, but I don’t feel compelled to read something from beginning to end if it’s not capturing me.

  • http://twitter.com/rdopping Ralph Dopping

    Jayme, I am in camp # 2. Read, absorb what I can to use to improve my life, work, etc. I rarely read for pleasure but find pleasure in reading. Make sense?

    I participated in the 10 books list but not in the 13 because I too have a hard time first of all remembering all the great books I have read and second of all coming up with 10 let alone 13. But just so you can get a sense of who I really am here are two of my actual faves (outside of the business book world); The Hitchhickers Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams) and The Enchantress of Florence (Salman Rushdie).

    BTW, loved the post on promoting safe blogging and Hajra’s response. Very cool.

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Thanks for dropping by @twitter-229922134:disqus . Jayme will be by soon:) Cheers! Kaarina

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Thanks for the kudos re safe blogging, Ralph. You know? I’ve picked up Salman Rushdie a number of times and cannot get through the first few pages. You know what else I’m struggling with? Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. I have restarted that book about 8 times and cannot get through its horrid start. I have all 3 sitting here waiting to be excited about and need to push myself.

      I think that’s also a sign of the need for instant gratification? If I’m not hooked in the first 25 pages…bye bye. 

      As for the guide to the galaxy — I’ve heard of it, but haven’t picked it up. Good one for me to consider? 

      And,  yes, makes total sense in re your sentence 2.

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         That’s how I feel about the Jane Austen books. I just can’t seem to get past the first few chapters. So I just leave them alone, and go back to them every now and then. But the movie…well, that’s a whole different kettle of fish. It’s actually why I bought each of the books in the movie!

      • http://twitter.com/rdopping Ralph Dopping

        If you can try and read Enchantress. The way that guy uses words is so descriptive that you can actually see the story. At least for me.

        If you like sci-fi and don’t mind really quirky humour then Hitchhikers is for you. It’s a real classic in my book (NPI).

        We recently watched the Girl w the Dragon Tattoo (original Swedish? film with the sub-titles). Tough film to get through. My wife actually left the room at one point. I can understand why it’s tough to read.

  • http://spinsucks.com Gini Dietrich

    One of the questions we always ask when we’re interviewing potential new hires is what they’re reading right now. We want to see that they’re reading everything you’ve listed, but also that they’re reading fiction. Fiction is what creates creativity and storytelling, which (as you know) is extremely important in our jobs. 

    Not having a favorite book list is OK. Heck, it took me 10 months after the challenge to create mine. And there are some I left off, which bums me out. But it was a fun exercise to get people thinking about what drives their creativity.

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       I’m sure Jayme will have her own response to this, but I totally agree @ginidietrich:disqus . Reading fiction allows the mind to wander, ponder and dream: the stuff that further stories are made of. I usually have at least 6 fiction books on the go at any given time, as well as all the business books I consume. Can you spell Marketing in the Round? 23 more sleeps ;) Cheers! Kaarina

      • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

        Yep; indeed. I relish the evenings when I’m ensconced in a good sci fi book. Half the reason I read those is because I absolutely marvel at the creativity of those authors. I love to read a good series; I’m on book 4 of the George R Michael (is that his name) books on historical fiction/fantasy. How does anyone plan that far ahead and then write a tome of 600 pages each or more? Agog.

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Your interest in science fiction reminds me of the movie “The Jane Austen Book Club” (which I’ve watched countless times and simply LOVE) when Grigg asks Jocelyn to read the Ursula LeGuin science fiction book…if you haven’t seen the movie (with absolutely stellar cast), you must.

          I’ve started the whole Jane Austen series of books on several occasions, but those are ones that remain to be read. Somehow I bug out early on in each.

          • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

            OK; this post is now bookmarked; I have to reference all these suggestions again…where’s the time?

          • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

             Time is just a concept, haha!

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Whew. So glad to know I’m in good stead! I am going to begin to develop a book list, though. I’m going to need to write them all down on the iPad, though. I have a favorite ‘zine list — Fast Company and Inc. — devour able. Maybe that speaks to my attention span…I really think I can’t concentrate in a business book for lengths of time any more and that’s so sad. Thanks, Twin!

  • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

    I love this community! Thanks for being mine, too! Heh. Good Morning, All! XO and Happy and Safe Fourth of July and Canada Day yesterday!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       I love this community too! And yours, and all those with whom we engage, interact, poke fun with, laugh and learn from. Happy Fourth of July to all who will be celebrating. Canada Day was tons of fun (cough, work) Cheers! Kaarina

  • http://cirquedumot.com/new-readers/ Susan Silver

    There is no shame in not having a list. If everyone sat down and calculated how much they read everyday,well, you would be exhausted from thinking about it. Sometimes after a work day the last thing I want to do is read!

    I love reading.  My favorites are sci fi. I appreciate the metaphors that contextualize our current situation. Somehow sci fi gives us the freedom to explore a possible future good or bad. I have also started to read more about history as I have grown older. 

    I do most of my industry reading through blogs and free resources. That has been the great equalizer with the internet. Education for everyone with access. It is very democratic that way. I talk about this often with a friend who is a tutor. She is able to help her students with the resources she finds, and now she is becoming a resource with her own video library. 

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Hi @ssilver:disqus , and thanks for dropping by and commenting. I hope you’ll visit regularly: the welcome mat’s always out:)

      I agree: the internet has been a great equalizer, and opens us up to a world of resources. But I must admit…I still like an old fashioned, bound paper book to wrap my hands and head around.

      And there’s no shame in much, unless it’s illegal, unethical or immoral:) We shouldn’t compare to others. Just be our own unique self! Cheers! Kaarina

      • http://cirquedumot.com/new-readers/ Susan Silver

        Thank you so much for the warm welcome Kaarina! I will drop by again. You are such a gracious host :)  

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Thanks so much @ssilver:disqus : that makes my day:)

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      I’m loving historical fiction, too, Susan. I also like a good biography (reading Steve Jobs now), but that is slower reading sometimes. Isn’t the sci fi and fantasy author amazing creatively? (I can’t consume all types of that genre, but some I love to get lost in, for sure.)

      • http://cirquedumot.com/new-readers/ Susan Silver

        Yes. Philip K. Dick, who is like the grandaddy of sci-fi is my favorite. His work is amazingly surreal. He just knew how to write a story where it wasn’t always clear what was real or a dream. I don’t think I get more joy from reading then when I read sci fi. Might be because I was raised by Trekkies.

        • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

          I’m gonna look that guy up — sounds like a pseudonym if there ever was one, eh? (That eh is for Kaarina.)

          • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

             Eh? :) )))

  • ShakirahDawud

    A few of my favorites are kids’ books, but that’s always been the case. As a parent now, I appreciate the way the authors have helped preserve all our childhoods with their creative choices of words and pictures.

    Newest all-time favorite: Mud, by Mary Lyn Ray.

    We got it while it was still cold out. When we finally got out there to mix dirt for the garden, my daughter kept telling me (while scrupulously avoiding getting dirty herself, you understand), “Say Mud, Mama!”

    Reciting the gorgeous, exhilarating poem over and over while mixing, turning and smelling spring… Bliss!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       I now must find Mud: the book and the real thing, haha!

      • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

        When you find it; share, eh? 

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      I have two time capsules already for my daughter from birth to 6; Good Dog Carl is such a classic — no words, just pictures. I could tell the story any way I wanted. And, of course, who doesn’t like Good Night Moon and Grumpy Bunnies In The Morning. Maybe because I read these over and over again do they stick with me.

      In my list of readings that resonate (hmm, maybe that’s a list I should write instead?) I recall Anna Karenina, Wuthering Heights, Moby Dick (reading now, actually), Exodus by Leon Uris, and Lorna Doone (one of my favorites).

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         I almost included Trinity by Leon Uris in my top 13. It’s a book I’ve read and re-read many times.

        In terms of children’s books, you’d love The Secret World of Og by Pierre Berton, @twitter-22830278:disqus and @ShakirahDawud:disqus . It’s timeless, and as great a read for adults as for kids.

        And my favourite book to give as a gift to graduates and new parents: “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss

  • http://www.writerightwords.com/ Erin Feldman

    Hmm. I do a little bit of both when it comes to reading. What does that mean?

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

      Not sure what the “little bit of both” refers to. I’m lost in this thread:)

      • http://www.writerightwords.com/ Erin Feldman

        In reference to how I read. Jayme mentioned two different ways of reading, and I do both.

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Gotcha:)

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      I caught you, Erin…as i’m so out of the box in general, a little of this and little of that is on par for me (and apparently you?)…how’s Texas treating you? You like?

      • http://www.writerightwords.com/ Erin Feldman

        Apparently so. I think it must be the fact that I have the literature and writing background as well as the marketing (and occasionally PR if it’s assigned to me) one.

        Texas – Austin, specifically – is great. I love it here. :)

  • http://newenglandmultimedia.com/ Michelle Quillin

    I never finish a book, because I have too many stacked around the house.  Can I still have a favorite book list? Maybe of Books That Are Really Great So Far? 

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       You can entitle it “My Ten Divided by Two Favourite Half-books” post, haha!

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Oh, man; you’re like me!  See, I knew we had lots in common!! This is what I said — about 2 dozen+ books sitting on the nightstand and around it. No lie. I have every good intention; it’s my darn attention span…so limiting lately. Happy day today, Michelle! If nothing else, it’s a day off.

  • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

    Who’s reading? What is it? Tell me right now! What’s on your plate? Green Eggs and Ham!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Call Yertle!

  • http://hajrakvetches.com Hajra

    I think I fall under both camps.Sometimes I read just for the fun of it and other times I indulge deeper. Imagining characters, what they really look like and what would I do if I were them and stuff like that. Like recently, when I watched the movie version of The Help, I was glad that it met my “imagination” of those characters to quite an extent. And that works for me. 

    But yes, reading a variety of books always help. Though I am a fan of non-fiction, I thoroughly love fiction as well. Fictions always empowers your creativity, your tendency to think off track and strengthens your power of belief that quite a lot of things are possible.

    Not having a favorite book list is really okay. Since @ginidietrich:disqus has written that post, I am still trying to come up with my fav 10…and I already have 34…. 

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Woah…34? Are you gonna share, Hajra? This is going to be my challenge — to put a list together and share it and it has to be books that have resonated with me in some way. It’s crazy to say, but I mentioned I’m reading Moby Dick for the first time, and I’m shocked I never have thus far. The classics are pulling me in and it’s so amazingly refreshing to see how these books are authored during times so forgotten. My child struggles with books written in different genres, from older periods. Once I help her, she’s on board, but our kids are so caught up in modern and contemporary that this type of literature is foreign to them.

      • http://hajrakvetches.com Hajra

        I could do a blog post series with 34 books eh? ;)

        I did read Moby Dick when I was little and yes, because I was so much into Indian literature and novels from the Asian world that it surprises me that I have missed out many classics for the younger generation. But that’s okay. You read some, you miss some! :)

        As for being literature being a little foreign, I see that in my nephew as well. His parameter of judgement is “before and after Harry Potter”. 

  • http://twitter.com/lifeforinstance Life, for instance

    Jayme, I admire your discipline to read only non-fiction. I read a bit of both. In fact I have books on the go in several rooms of the house! I love a big fat work of fiction that I can get lost in and I love informative non-fiction that I can digest in small bites. I guess the trick is in the balance!
    Lori
    Hi Kaarina!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Hi @twitter-228904159:disqus :) You KNOW what I’m gonna’ say about that balance word, don’t you:) No balance: embrace imbalance. Love the teeter-totter that is life! P.S. If you’d like to tuck into a wonderful fiction book that will transport you, try The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton.

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Hey, Lori…well, I wouldn’t say I have discipline at all reading non-fiction! It’s my “job” as they say — must read to stay current and on top of trends. Back in the day in the Chicago agency world, all I heard from my bosses was “read, read, read.” I really never knew what they meant nor did I know how to read. 

      Now, scanning is my best friend and reading is how I improve and stay smart. Great seeing you! Thanks!

  • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

    I read the way I produce content- in great bursts. Books have always been my friend and it is relationship that cannot be broken.

    I read some of everything, but science fiction and fantasy have probably been my favorite corner for the longest period of time.

    Books are like my children- they are all my favorites. 

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       That is one very cool statement @TheJackB:disqus : “Books are like my children – they are all my favourites” [Canadian spelling courtesy of moi;) Wish I’d said that. But then again, I wouldn’t have identified 13. Cheers! Kaarina

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      And, how is that book of yours coming along, The Jack? I  know you have been eagerly writing and testing…didn’t know we liked a bit of fantasy and sci fi together…I bet yours is hard core though…I can only imagine…your creative spurts are inspired from somewhere. Bring it; we’re waiting!

  • http://www.craigmcbreen.com/ Craig McBreen

    Hi Jayme,

    I’ve been stuck on non-fiction too. In the past I’ve always read both, but have lately been buried in business books.

    My fear is all of this will make a dull boy of me, so Kaarina’s post saved the day. Well, at least I think I’ll go back to reading novels at night, so I can get my mind OFF business before I crash :)

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       One must ALWAYS take breaks away from business @CraigMcBreen:disqus . It enriches body, mind and soul. Cheers! Kaarina

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Didn’t you see my secret revealed? Silly vamp junk to cleanse the vapors — I wanted to toss in two V words for Kaarina…i think you’re overcome with Vees, right, Kaarina?

      Seriously, Craig, I HAVE to clear my head at night; sometimes for 3 sentences before I nod off, but it’s so critical. Happy Fourth!

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         Yay, more V words!

  • http://markharai.com Mark Harai

    Hey, we have the same reading habits Jayme : )

    My mind gravitates towards all things business… I really feel like I’m missing out on some great reading. I keep telling myself that I’m going to dig and read a good book one of  these days.. maybe Kaarina’s will be the next!

     

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       That will motivate my writing even more @markharai:disqus :) Cheers! Kaarina

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      I’m pushing on her, really hard. I think it’s coming to fruition. Now, as for you…your tonality and soothing nature (is that real?) requires a book of your own — communing with nature and ahem, healthy flirtations with awakening spirits. Get my drift? Giggle.

      • http://markharai.com Mark Harai

        What you see is what you get miss : )

        You silly rabbit – lol!

         Safe travels on your trip Jayme, and I will see you soon!

        • http://soulati.com/blog Soulati

          In hot hot chitown but that did not stop me from watching Serena Williams win this morning !

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         Keep pushing…I love it!

  • http://www.late-bloomers.net Barbara Klein

    Happy Fourth of July!

    Am I glad that it is ok not to have a favourite book list! Where have I read that it is typical for people dwelling on the other side of the ocean to make lists for everything and it is an un-European thing? I think I will start a book list now!I am a fast reader of fiction (not so much lately for known reasons) and keep forgetting it, it happened I bought a book twice, carried it home with the anticipation of having some blissful hours getting lost in another world – only to discover that I had read it before, argh!I had the pleasure to meet Donna Leon and listen to her reading from her Guido Brunetti novels, utterly fascinating her epic descriptions of Venice and the careful attention she pays to every detail. This made me read her latest volume “The Beastly Things” much more carefully and therefore twice as enjoyable.  

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       I love the phrase “having some blissful hours getting lost in another world”. That’s what a good book should do: transport us to another time and place, and absorb us into another  “reality”. Cheers! Kaarina

      • http://www.late-bloomers.net Barbara Klein

        Kaarina, ma bella regina del benessere! Will I see you later?

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Just finishing these replies off and heading on over to the hangout:)

    • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

      Hi, Barbara! So nice to have your comment…I so marvel at getting lost in places with the authors. Having been to Venice, I can appreciate the details that make a city come alive, especially in that historical region. Italy…might you live there? I think a visit is in order, regardless. Please make room for two, as, ahem, this is Kaarina’s house after all!

      • http://www.late-bloomers.net Barbara Klein

        Hi, Jayme, LOL, wish I lived in Italy! No, I live in Basel, Switzerland, it is a 7 hour ride to the Southern Tuscany where I love to spend my holidays. By all means, a visit is very much in order, a friend whom you might know and I are planning on something …

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           Yes we are:)

          • http://soulati.com/blog Soulati

            Oh man I am coming! And I have been to your lovely city too!

      • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

         Room for two…that’s a plan:)

  • http://twitter.com/Soulati Jayme Soulati

    OK; thanks, ALL, for the lovely comments and suggestions on what to read. I’m heading out on the road again and will attempt to check back in…Kaarina, thanks for the nudge on Twitter…if I’m falling behind again, will you please do that again? 

    So cool to be in a community with amazing peeps…oh, yes, I already said that…these peeps are in my house, too! Yay!

    XO, Everyone!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Enjoy your day: I’ll hold down the fort @twitter-22830278:disqus :) xo

  • Al

    Late to the party, as usual.  I went through that phase of reading all these personal development books.  I still refer to my favorite 3 of all time; “How to Win Friends and Influence People” “The Power of Positive thinking” and “Think and Grow Rich” and still believe these 3 should be required reading for all high school and/or college students.

    I do have a recommended reading list on my website.  Have not changed or added anything in a long time.  Mostly all business and personal development books.

    Having started a business, and now, with a “real” job, I just dont have the time.  I really don’t read much at all.  Sports Illustrated, every now and then.  Mostly read articles and blogs on line.

    Ok.  Enough from me.  Thanks Jayme and Kaarina.  Miss you.

    Take CARE.

    Al

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Miss you too @55bda8bf067c222f67632d2dc41af473:disqus  and hope all is well with your “new” job. Your 3 faves of all time are good ones, and I’ve read each. Now I must head back over to your site to take a look at that reading list of yours. Sports Illustrated…swimsuit issue? :) ))) Cheers! Kaarina

    • http://soulati.com/blog Soulati

      I don’t know why I never read any self help books. People recco and I try to be interested and then never get through them.

      I understand about not having the time as that is all my problem too!

  • http://www.wonderoftech.com Carolyn Nicander Mohr

    Well, it may be okay for us not to have a favorite book list, but perhaps it’s an indication that you’re working a bit too hard? I hope that you have a chance to relax a bit and enjoy some escape books. You might want to consider audiobooks. They help you multi-task. You can enjoy running errands or doing chores. I just wouldn’t try listening to audiobooks when you’re vacuuming though!

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       I like the audio books idea @wonderoftech:disqus , but you know I’m no fan of multi-tasking, haha! No more multi-tasking ~ http://www.kaarinadillabough.com/no-more-multitasking/

      Sequential uni-tasking is the order of the day:) Cheers! Kaarina

      • http://www.wonderoftech.com Carolyn Nicander Mohr

        Yes, but if you listen to the radio in the car, you can probably listen to audiobooks. :-)

        • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

           That is true: point well taken @wonderoftech:disqus :)

    • http://soulati.com/blog Soulati

      Oh my there is no way for audio books as I always have kids in the car! And I have no commute to work.

      I have been speaking about this blog post and my dilemma re no gave list and am surprised so many in my boat.

      My theory is the ADD of Internet age that has taken this gift from us.

      • http://www.wonderoftech.com Carolyn Nicander Mohr

        Yes, I can’t listen to audiobooks when I’m in the car with my kids. I listen to them when I walk my dog, run, do chores and run errands. It’s amazing how many books I can read that way! 

        But I know that audiobooks aren’t for everyone. :-)

  • http://soulati.com/blog Soulati

    Let me see if my iPhone 4s will allow my log in on disqus.

  • http://www.freelancewriter.co/ Harleena Singh

    Nice read Jayme and Karrina!

    I used to have a great list of favorites I liked reading, but that was way back during my good old college days :) With changing times and life getting so busy now, there’s hardly any time to sit and read anything with a peaceful mind! Yes, when I do read, which is mostly when my writing projects end or when I am on vacation.

     I prefer taking the second option to absorb what I read and get totally lost in it. And I prefer spiritual or self-development books, or then those related to health issues or romantic ones too! But such times are indeed rare.

    Thanks for sharing and reminding me once again to get back to books :)

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Books are a wonderful way to escape, relax and refresh @Harleena:disqus :) Enjoy

  • http://twitter.com/skypulsemedia Howie at Sky Pulse Media

    I read lots of fiction and non-fiction. But almost never biz books. As with you @soulati:disqus i read so much for work with the trade pubs and magazines etc it is a living ‘How to’ and ‘What not to do’ everyday. When I really need to unwind a good solid nancy drew mystery is a must.

    • http://twitter.com/KDillabough Kaarina Dillabough

       Oooh, Nancy Drew…@howieatskypulsemedia:disqus , when I was a kid, I had the whole series. I loved looking at all the pale yellow book spines lined up on my bookshelf. You take me back to fond memories, my friend…even if you are just kidding around.