A Book a Week – That’s All We Ask

MyBookShelf I don’t know about you, but I like to read. I often say I’d like to read more. Sure I already read a lot of stuff every day – between email, blog postings, the newspaper (yes, I still read the paper every day), and other work related reports. However, I don’t often make the time to read the stuff I want to read. That’s going to change in 2010.

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Today I was inspired by a blog post by Julien Smith (@Julien), co-author of Trust Agents with Chris Brogan (@ChrisBrogan). Julien offered up a few tips on How To Read a Book a Week in 2010 based on his success in reading more than a book a week in 2009. I met Julien at Gnomedex and I know he was really busy, along with Chris, travelling and speaking all over the place. If Julien can do it I can do it. I’m in for 2010. How about you?

A Can a Week is All We Ask

Does anyone remember the Blue Diamond Almond commercials? These were on maybe 20 years ago. They spawned a catch phrase that has stuck with me all these years. So, I guess it worked a little bit. I could not find the old commercial. Below is the modern version --- still suggesting that people eat a can a week.

A Book a Week …

It’s Not a Contest, but I am challenging myself to read a book a week for 2010. I may do as Julien suggests and revisit a few of my favorites that I blogged about here A few of my favorite reads – in Business. I agree with him that this is OK. Re-reading some of you favorite books can provide a new insight or perspective that you had missed earlier.

In fact I will likely read Robert Heinlein’s “Stranger in a Strange Land” again. I will also re-read Edwin Abbott’s “Flatland” again too. These are both books that my father recommended to me many years ago. Re-Reading them reminds me of the time I spent with him and the things we used to talk about when he was still with us.

Anyone else want to read along?

My list will include some of the Michael Lewis’ books about sports and economics. I know I will want to join a few of my friends (@Shih_Wei and @ThinkMaya) that have already setup the Reading SocialMedia Club (@ReadSM). I thought about creating a list tracking what I’m reading. I’m going to think about this for a few more days before I do it. Mainly because it’s not a contest, but I would like to hear what you are reading. For now I’d hope you would add a comment here and let me know what’s on your reading list.

Let’s find and reclaim those minutes in our days and see if we can read at least a book a week in 2010. I’m in. Are you?

Comments

Dave Healey said…
Hey Jeff,

This is a great idea, a resolution I can definitely get behind. First up: "The Indifferent Stars Above" a very well told historical narrative of the Donner party journey written by a local Redmondian no less. :-)

My daughter is an avid reader too and I am trying to get her on board. Will let you know how it goes.

Dave Healey
Anne de Forsan said…
Wow, that's pretty ambitious! ok let's try - I'm in too. Two books down already since Jan 2nd ;-) Discovering John Sandford's novel. Third one in my bag - Terry Pratchett and viral loop ahead.
Unknown said…
Ok dear Jeff! You and Julien have convinced me! ... I don't know where I'll find the time, but I'm in! Warmly, Jeris
Hello, Very cool blog. I love books. Reading is the main key to learning and we must encourage this since the kids are small ...

Great blog