I have some trusted old friends, that I can read anytime. They are like a very cosy, warm blanket or jacket, into which you can always slip when the world goes mad.
I have read them during some of the most horrid times in my life and they have never failed me.
Of course, you can't tell anyone what exactly they are, it is a bit embarrassing to admit to be reading that instead of some inspirational or at least educational literary compositions, but sadly Thomas Mann's Zauberberg never held the same Prozac as a kitschy MMKaye novel.
Dear Fairy,
My taste with regard to books and reading material has often raised eyebrows. As mentioned, I just as easily read simple romance novels (Harlequin/Candlelight) to (semi) scientific literature. From youth / children's books to psychological thrillers etcetera. On one of my former regular train routes, a few years ago, a regular train inspector often came to see what I was reading again. Because I often managed to surprise her with my reading material. Also to spar if I knew some tips to keep her children reading.
Read what you like, what interests you, and not what someone else (or yourself) expects you to read. In NL there is compulsory reading material per taken language (Dutch = compulsory and English often also in present times). IMO this often kills the fun of reading many children and youngster have. I have followed and graduated in 3 kinds of (Dutch) secondary schools, with Dutch, English and German. This meant at least 9 so called booklists.
I could still worry about it as a child and young adult, but I have already passed that stage. Except when I meet a nice attractive (to me) guy .....
