I sometimes browse Goodreads reviews to gauge whether a book might be worth my time. Lately, though, it’s become increasingly difficult to judge a book’s quality from the reviews alone. The main issue is that many readers blur the line between objective critique and personal enjoyment. For example, I read Fourth Wing and genuinely enjoyed it – I even rated it four stars. Still, I could see that the story lost focus and coherence in places. Enjoying something doesn’t necessarily make it objectively good.
What I’ve come to realize is that there’s a difference between liking a book and recognizing its craftsmanship. A story can be entertaining, emotionally satisfying, and still have structural flaws, pacing issues, or inconsistencies in tone. Likewise, a technically excellent novel might not resonate with everyone on a personal level. I understand that some may disagree, but I believe objective standards of good art can exist independently of personal taste.
In my Goodreads reading challenge, I set a goal to read 20 books this year. So far, I’ve made it halfway through with 10 books. That’s not bad, but I’m starting to wonder if I can realistically reach 20 before the year ends. Two months doesn’t feel like much time to read ten more books – unless I fill my list with short stories or novellas!
There were a few points this year when I put books down for a while before finally picking them back up to finish. My reading pace also slowed once I started my cybersecurity book, which has been taking up a good chunk of my time and focus. Still, the idea of reaching my goal feels motivating. Maybe with a plan—and some shorter, cozier reads – I actually can make it to twenty after all. Maybe. I read books from the library, so I’m also dependent on when a book is available. I try not to buy books. I have no room for books in the house.
The house is quiet. Alex is at his grandpa’s, and the girls are busy with their homework and their own things. I’m hoping Alex comes home a bit early tonight. I still need to run to Walmart to pick up my medication. I’ll need it for Friday when I fill the pill boxes. Friday is always pill box day, just like Monday and Thursday are laundry days. For lunch, I think I’ll make oatmeal and eggs. Oatmeal sounds good right now – simple, warm, and filling.
I just had my last cup of coffee for the day. Alexis was teasing me because it was already 2 p.m. When she first started drinking coffee, I used to tell her not to have any after noon so it wouldn’t mess with her sleep. Now, every time I break my own rule, she loves to remind me of it. I do try not to have coffee late.
It’s five now, and I’m going to make myself some hot tea and read a bit.
