Do you read books “meant” for other age groups? Adult books when you were a child; Young-Adult books now that you’re grown; Picture books just for kicks … You know … books not “meant” for you. Or do you pretty much stick to what’s written for people your age?
I have never stuck to books for my age group. Even as a kid I read above and below my age range. The only thing that mattered to me was that I liked the book and my parents didn't censor what I read (although they did censor my tv viewing). I would read my sisters books, my books and would even try my mum's books. If it was a book I wanted my mitts on it. I remember being quite young and reading to my grandad from one of his Westerns (although I am pretty sure I wouldn't have understood it).
It was only as a teen that someone objected to my reading habits. An English teacher only saw me reading Point Horror. She wasn't aware that I was also reading John Grisham, Stephen King, Jane Austin, Charles Dickens and Bram Stoker (I am sure I even read a few Catherine Cookson during that time). Anyway, she commented on it to my dad who went into panic mode. I already didn't like this teacher and wasn't best pleased that she only noticed me reading YA. I should thank her though because this teacher was also a sci fi nut and my dad came home the next day with a big pile of books she had recommended. It included Isaac Asimov and I fell in love with science fiction from then on. Oh, and it also included "The Grapes of Wrath" which is one of my favourite books to this day.
Since I knew that I was reading from all levels I didn't let that stop me from enjoying my point horror's or Christopher Pike's. I was just a bit more wary about what I took into school. I still read YA although I am taking a little break from it at the moment. I also LOVE picture books. I am a little sad that my youngest niece is now insisting on big girl books with chapters. I don't mind admitting that I have one or two of my favourites on my own bookshelf.
Picture books bring back memories, i recently brought one that is called "Timeless new york" i never wanted to visit new york till i brought that, its a really nice book,
ReplyDeleteThe Book Mystress, xx
I had a teacher in middle school who criticized my reading habits. I was reading trashy V.C. Andrews books so that was probably warranted *blush*
ReplyDeleteHere's what I had to say: http://abookishaffair.blogspot.com/2011/05/booking-through-thursday-may-12-2011.html
Picutre books were fun when my kids were little.
ReplyDeleteHere is my answer: http://www.lisasworldofbooks.com/2011/05/booking-through-thursday_12.html
When I was in college, I took a course in Children's Literature and thoroughly enjoyed several Caldecott and Newberry books. I later shared some of my favorites with my kids. Loved "Where the Wild Things Are."
ReplyDeleteBut my own favorite books tend toward the adult genre, and the characters and story lines are the primary appeal.
Here's MY BTT2 POST
At least that teacher brought you to science fiction, a most worthy genre. Personally, at first, I think the important thing is that children read. What they read will eventually change, if not right. But they ARE reading.
ReplyDeleteSometimes others can open up worlds unknown by suggesting different books that you wouldn't otherwise consider. I have found that very thing in our book club. As we all take turns suggesting the book of the month, I have read Jane Austen, Maeve Binchy, Agatha Christie, Alexander McCall Smith, Rick Riordan and more. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to discover other great novels and authors that I wouldn't necessarily pick up on my own.
ReplyDeleteMy Bookshelf
For the most part, yes, I tend to stick to my age group. But I do throw in the occasional YA if they're supposed to be very good and have not been disappointed.
ReplyDeleteYes, I like mixing it up, makes reading more interesting.
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