Reading isn’t about quantity for me (I set no yearly reading goals) but enjoyment, and sometimes you go through a dry patch where nothing appeals to you. Murder? Nope. Ghosts and goblins? Nah. Chuckles galore? Uh-uh. Ooey gooey love story? Groddy to the max. Something enlightening or inspiring? Errrr … okay, I’ll try it. But I won’t promise to like it or read it. Maybe I’ll just pet the book lovingly and eventually read a page if I’m feeling feisty.
I Did It! I Read a Book. A Whole Book!
Yup. I read one book. That’s right ONE book. Go Tanya!
Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
Book Review: I generally have three responses to books dealing with depression: 1). I become a real-live bobblehead and nod my head until dizzy. 2). It feels like nails on a chalkboard and I cannot bear it. 3). I give zero f*cks about your sh&t because I’m struggling with my own sh&t.
I felt all of the above with this book, which makes it really hard for me to review. Haig is very honest, and forthcoming about his experiences with depression and anxiety. The way he explains how depression and anxiety feels is very vivid, although my experiences didn’t mirror his exactly (and he rightly states at the beginning that everyone experiences depression differently). Sometimes reading about someone else’s experiences is a helpful reminder that I am not alone. That the weirdness I felt (feel) in my head is not my imagination or some secret shame I need to bear alone, but a disease many people experience through no fault of their own. And that’s an important fact to remember and repeat often.
To Read or Not To Read: I’m a big believer that you do (or read) whatever helps you get through your depression, whether it’s reading a book about depression or something silly or murdery or scary or super sexy. The first part of the book was tough for me to get through because I really didn’t care to be reminded what depression felt like, although it might be helpful to someone who has never experienced it. Or it may freak the hell out of them.
To More Good Books
I’m traveling home to Minnesota to celebrate Christmas with my family and hopefully I’ll be able to tackle some of my NetGalley books. Or not. 😀 Either way, my fingers are crossed that my reading mojo returns in 2019 and I start loving books once again. As usual, I’m joining the Show Us Your Books Link-Up hosted by Jana and Steph. Be sure to visit the link-up and see what everyone is reading and recommending.
What was the best book you read last month?
Tanya
Sounds like an interesting read for sure. TFS!
Yay for a read! Good PSA for reading this book too.
Reading should be all about enjoyment no matter how many books you read! I think a book that makes you feel 3 types of a ways is a success even if it doesn’t seem that way?
My reading amount definitely goes in waves. Totally know that “nothing appeals” feeling.
I can’t imagine the emotional rollercoaster one would go on when reading a book about depression when suffering from it. i also like to be reminded i’m not alone when going through certain things. i’m not sure about this book for me, but i’m glad you overall enjoyed it. i read one of his fiction books and was super not a fan.
These type of books definitely help you feel less alone, but they aren’t always what you need at certain points if you also suffer from depression. Yay for reading one book this month though!!
-Lauren
This book has just recently appeared on my radar of TBR stories. I read a Christmas book by him once and loved it. I agree that you’ve got to do whatever works for you when dealing with depression and anxiety. I hope your reading mojo comes back if that’s what you want to happen!! Safe travels home for Christmas!!
For me, it was the best book on depression I’ve read. It made me feel so much less alone. And I agree that if someone wants to understand what it’s like, this book is a good peek into the mind of a depressive but understanding that depression looks different on everyone.
I loved this book and it really resonated with me. I am so glad you read it 🙂
I’m totally with you that sometimes reading mojo can just ebb and flow, but the holidays can be the perfect time to get it back! I feel like if I have more downtime, I definitely end up getting more reading done, as long as I’m not distracted by the TV!
Dont feel bad – I had one book myself this month.
Hope you do get some reading & relaxing on that family trip!
Sorry to hear that you still haven’t gotten your reading mojo back! This book sounds like an interesting read. Since I don’t have personal experience with depression, reading these types of books really gives me perspective.
Totally agree that reading is not about the number! It’s about the journey! Sounds like this month’s selection wasn’t exactly a winner, so hopefully next month will be a little more enjoyable. Safe travels this month!
I feel kind of like how you do. I find myself not really loving books like I used to. I mean, I enjoy them, but not with the intensity that I have in years past. I kind of miss it, but am tired of beating myself up over feeling the way I do.
Here’s to hoping your reading mojo returns in the new year!
Reading slumps are the worst!! I’m sorry, but you know…. it happens!! I hope that you have fun in Minnesota! XO – Alexandra
Simply Alexandra: My Favorite Things
haven’t heard of this, but it sounds like an interesting read.