New Year’s Resolution: Mama’s 2018 Reading Challenge

I fancy myself a realist. I’ve learned that realistically I’m terrible at finishing projects. I have purchased many a DIY list with every intention of making something creative and unique, only to have it collect dust in the middle of our dining room table for days (weeks, months, etc.). I like the idea of starting something new and life-changing, but rarely, if ever, have the follow-through.

I’ve tried to be realistic about how to see something through until the end. Or, better yet, maybe reconsider starting something altogether.

This time of year, though, I just can’t help myself. Even without trying, I find my brain making New Year’s resolutions. Maybe it’s all of the Weight Watcher ads. Like, “Gosh darn it! If Oprah can do it, then maybe I should join up too!” Then again, I already have a dusty gym membership, so I should probably just squeeze into some Spandex and hit the treadmill.

I have a second resolution. I’d like to continue reading as many books as possible. Even as a mom of two time-consuming little folks, I have free time that I piddle away on Facebook, pointless TV (not talking about you, Masterpiece, my love), or cleaning my house and meal planning (I kid! I have resolutions about these too, of course).

Therefore, I’d like to invite you on my journey.

Let’s do a reading challenge. I 100% stole this idea from Modern Mrs. Darcy, and I’ve been wanting to do it ever since I first heard about it a few years ago.

Each month, we’ll choose a book based on a topic (below). Since the topics vary (and don’t follow my typical genres: Christian fiction, YA, fantasy, etc.), it’ll stretch all of us to read books we normally pass on the shelf. Since it’s only one book a month, I find this very manageable.

Depending on audience participation, I’ll either select a few titles and take a vote, or I’ll just pick a book that appeals to me (and hopefully you!). I’ll keep you posted throughout the month with questions and thoughts I’ve had as we make our way through the book.

EDIT: I arrogantly assumed y’all would just fall in line and read whatever book I (we) chose. However, I think it’s a better idea for me to do the following:

1. I’ll introduce whatever book I choose to read at the end of each month (for the next month).
2. If you want to read it too, I’d love that!
3. About two weeks later (assuming I finish it that quickly), I’ll write a review with some discussion questions.
4. Whether you read along with me or have read it before, you’re welcome to comment.
5. If you chose to read a different book (but the same category), tell us about it! I’d looove to find new, wonderful reads!
   

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Sound easy enough? Anyone else tired of not finding good books? Then again, since I haven’t read these books either, I’m NOT to blame if they’re bad! If that happens, it’ll give us plenty of whine fodder, eh?

Monthly topics for See Mama Read’s 2018 Reading Challenge:

• January: A book you’ve been meaning to read
• February: A book from a genre you don’t typically read
• March: A book that intimidates you
• April: A book from your childhood
• May: A book your mom loves
• June: A book that was originally written in a different language
• July: A book chosen for you by your spouse
• August: A book you chose because of the cover
• September: A book recommended by a librarian
• October: A book you should’ve read in high school
• November: A book currently on the bestseller list
• December: A biography or memoir

EDIT: I swapped February and March’s categories, because, as a friend (Hi, Ber!) pointed out, we shouldn’t try to read an intimidating book on the shortest month of the year. Yes. Good point.

Or, hey, if you decide you don’t like my pick, choose a different one for yourself! Then tell us about it! I will only be slightly offended and give you the silent treatment for a short while. Remember, I’m not good on follow-through.

So, is anyone with me? I love a good book club. And this (digital) way, I won’t even have to abandon my husband to handle all bath and bedtime routines by himself while I down some junk food and talk literature with the ladies. You’re welcome, introverted readers (winky face)!

Happy New Year, friends! I hope all of your resolutions are fruitful and multiply.

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