03 May Book Review of Why We Read: On Bookworms, Libraries, and Just One More…
Why We Read: On Bookworms, Libraries, and Just One More… – A Personal Reflection
As a book lover who thrives on the joy and adventure of reading, Shannon Reed’s upcoming book caught my eye almost immediately. The blend of memoir and reflection on the reading experience promised to be a captivating exploration, especially coming from Reed, a writer who weaves humor and insight into her narratives. Plus, I’m a devoted follower of George Saunders’ work and was intrigued to see how Reed navigated the eccentric landscape of Lincoln in the Bardo with her students. Thanks to NetGalley, I dove into this book filled with anticipation.
At first glance, the title Why We Read suggests a broad exploration of the human experience with books. However, as I delved deeper, it became clear that a more fitting title might be Why I Read—the subtitle might as well have been “In the Eccentric World of Shannon Reed.” Yes, Reed shares various reasons people read, inviting us into thoughtful reflections on why so many of us find solace in stories. However, throughout the chapters, it’s her personal quirks—her love for peculiar cookbooks and her imaginative, if slightly chaotic, approach to literature—that dominate the narrative.
I particularly enjoyed the passages where Reed discusses her teaching experiences. The camaraderie she builds with her tenth-grade students as they explore the layered depths of Jane Eyre is a delight. There’s something heartwarming about witnessing young minds engage with classic literature, especially when those discussions reveal unexpected joys and poignant realizations. She crafts her teaching moments with care, reminding readers that the classroom should be a space for exploration and growth, not just rote analysis.
However, Reed’s style as a humor writer doesn’t always hit the mark for me. While her attempts at wit are earnest, they sometimes veer into heavy-handed territory. Footnotes that feel more like snarky asides than insightful commentary made me roll my eyes rather than chuckle. We’ve all had those moments in class where a smart remark from the back row falls flat, and I found myself wishing for less quirky bravado and more depth.
One poignant moment comes when Reed reflects on Atul Gawande’s Being Mortal, recounting its impact after her father’s passing. This heartfelt segment stands as a highpoint, showcasing Reed’s ability to touch on the serious and the emotional amidst her comedic strokes. It reminds readers that literature can help us navigate life’s biggest challenges, a sentiment I hold dear.
In the end, Why We Read serves as a whimsical, albeit sometimes uneven, celebration of a bookworm’s journey. Those who share an unyielding passion for reading will likely find familiar threads woven through Reed’s experiences. While her eccentricities may not resonate with everyone, her genuine love for literature shines through.
I find myself reflecting on how much I’ve enjoyed the conversational tone of Reed’s writing, even if it can feel scattered at times. If you’re someone who cherishes books and the exploration of our diverse reading experiences, this engaging memoir may just capture your heart—quirks and all. And Shannon, if you ever find yourself reading this, take my advice: dive into Middlemarch; it’s a classic that packs an emotional punch—minus the annoying Will Ladislaw!
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