Around this time every year, I create a whole list of books that I promise myself I’m going to read before the year ends. And guess what – I have yet to complete those lists.  As a matter of fact, I have yet to finish a fourth of the books on those lists.  Well, if you read my previous post #19FOR2019, then you know that once again I’ve decided that I’m going to read more this year.  But, this time, I wanted to make sure I set more realistic goals that I could actually accomplish.

I began trying to figure out why it has been so hard for me to start and finish my books these last few years.  Especially since I was such an avid reader while in high school and college.  Your girl use to be able to finish a book in less than a week; and some, I would even finish in two days (if they were that good).

The answer came to me pretty quickly!  I read more back in the day because the books were always about topics that I was interested in (I know, that wasn’t that mind blowing).  But, the truth of the matter is, as we become adults, we take everything so seriously, even our reading.

For example, I had committed myself to reading a bunch of self-help books.  Frankly, these types of books can be quite overwhelming.  Most of the time, the author is telling me all of these things that I need to do to fix my life.  And in the beginning, I’m all for the tips and advice that the authors give.  I take plenty of notes, and resolve to “fix my life”.  The next thing you know, those notes have been tossed somewhere in a corner, never to be seen again.  And sometimes I just stop reading/listening to the book all together.  At that rate, I would never finish a book again!

So, this time around, I’ve decided to start reading more books that are about topics that I enjoy; like black history, women’s history, love, etc.  Books that have real storylines and a lesson at the end. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m always trying to be a better me, so I’m not completely done with self-help books.  I will just sprinkle them in a little less than what I’ve done in the past.  Also, instead of compiling this super long list of books that I’m going to read this year, I’m going to create a monthly goal that I will read at least one book before the month ends.

And since it’s Black History Month, I decided that I would find a few books that surround the history and story of African Americans.  Here’s a list of the five books that I can’t wait to read.  I’ve already finished Barracoon, so expect a quick book review on this one. It was quite informative to say the least.

Heavy: An American Memoir by Kiese Laymon

The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis

On My Journey Now: Looking at African-American History Through the Spirituals by Nikki Giovanni

Standing Our Ground: The Triumph of Faith Over Gun Violence: A Mother’s Story by Lucia Kay McBath

Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo” by Zora Neale Hurston

If your goal is to read more this year, my advice to you is read what you enjoy.  Don’t take it too seriously.  Personally, I feel like there is a lesson in every book that is written.  So, if you want to read a romance novel, a comedy, a history book, or a self-help book, do it.  Read what you like!  Just READ!!!

Sweatshirt – Amazon  Jeans (Old) – American Eagle (Similar)  Boots – Marc Fisher

Thank you so much for stopping by!  Speak to you soon!

Daneisha

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