Start Reading More | Amie

It's no secret that I really love reading; I have ever since I learned how to. Reading has given me wonderful (and not so wonderful) insight on the world outside my little bubble. Mostly because I've been reading novels a little ahead of my time my whole life, which led me to acknowledging and understanding things most kids my age didn't. So yeah, in simpler terms, reading has made me smarter, and helped me understand the world a little better. Of course, nothing beats experience in terms of learning, but reading really helps you to prepare for the different obstacles life has to offer.

Books, even fiction novels that have nothing to do with our reality, always have some sort of wisdom to offer; you just need to read in between the lines. Now, reading in between lines is easier said than done, and only now do I really recall and understand the (hidden) meaning behind novels, stories and other forms of literature I've read in the past. The key to understanding is reflecting. Think about why this character did that, said that, and how their past experiences and the people in their life influence these actions and reactions.

Reading has many positive effects that help us feel better and live better. So here is an efficient and great way to set reading goals for yourself and stay organized at the same time.

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At the beginning of every school year, like around now, I search up something along the lines of "Best Teen Fiction" and "YA Fantasy Must Reads," depending on your tastes and preferences, and record them down in a list. By writing these lists, I am setting a goal for myself to finish reading this list by the end of the school year. This gives me a sufficient supply of novels to read throughout the year. Now usually, when I write these lists I borrow the books from the library. I really love the library because it offers so many learning and entertainment resources for free! The library is also easily accessible and helpful.

Although many teenagers think that reading is boring or "for nerds", I really encourage you to start a book list, whether you are a teen (or not) and whether you love reading (or not). It's good to push ourselves out of our comfort zones and exercise our boundaries every now and then, especially if it is something that will really help improve yourself. Seriously, by starting an online blog available for everyone to see was already pushing my limits, being the shy potato that I am , but I encouraged myself to try new things; because I knew this would be a great new learning experience, and I knew I wasn't alone (referring to my good buddies who make up the rest of RDT Team).

So give yourself a chance and you might really surprise yourself! (๑˃ᴗ˂)ﻭ

So here is a sample of my list from two school years ago (since I lost mine from last year (っ˘̩╭╮˘̩)っ. I'm still mourning my loss, in case you were wondering). They were amazing reads, by the way, and I totally recommend them!

Amie's 2018 - 2019 Book Reading List

1. The Dangerous Art of Blending In - Angelo Surmelis

2. Symptoms of being Human - Jeff Garvin

3. None of the Above - I.W. Gregorio

4. It's not like it's a Secret - Misa Sigura

5. I'll Give you a Sun - Jandy Nelson

6. The Scorpio Races - Maggie Stiefvator

7. We are the Ants - Shaun David Hutchinson

8. All the Bright Places - Jennifer Niven

9. Eliza and her Monsters - Francesca Zappia

10. I Believe in a thing called Love - Maurene Goo

11. An Enchantment of Ravens - Margeret Rogerson

You can add as many books to your list as you'd like and any genres you are interested in. Also, not all books have to be fiction: it's important to explore different genres and wander outside of your comfort zone. Reading non-fiction is also beneficial, as it teaches you many important lessons.

I really encourage you to start a reading list for every year to make a commitment to your reading journey. I hope my habit helps someone with their reading journey in an organized way. Happy reading!