I read a lot. Anything between two and five books a week, often with several on the go at once. I read hardbacks, paperbacks, proofs and e-books. I read newspapers, magazines, blogs and columns; and if there’s nothing else to read, I’ll read the back of the cereal packet. It’s compulsive.
My reading selection is eclectic, and sourced in a variety of ways. First there is my pile of choice: some crime; some psychological suspense, some women’s fiction. Second, there is the stack of books sent to me by publishers: either for review, for consideration for ChipLitFest, or for the crime advice column I put together for Writing Magazine. Thirdly, from September each year, there are the 80 or so books belonging to ChipLitFest authors. I try to read as many of our authors’ books as I can, and love the way it pushes me out of my usual reading comfort zone.
Lately I’ve encountered something I have never experienced before: reader’s block. I haven’t read a book in weeks, and each time I’ve picked one up, I’ve given up within a few pages. I’ve tried switching genres, reading new authors, re-reading old favourites, but nothing seems to work.
Have you ever had reader’s block? What’s the cure?