50 in 2011

The beginning of the new year always makes me look back at the previous year and take an accounting of what I've accomplished.  I was a bit astonished when I discovered that I read only 11 books in 2010.  I adore reading.  I love getting lost in different places with fascinating people.  I love exploring different worlds, lifestyles, places in history in the way that you can do when reading a book.  Movies and television shows just aren't the same; You don't get to spend the time with the characters and really get to know them and their surroundings/situation like you can in a book.

I'm usually reading several books at a time.  One is usually fiction, the others are usually non-fiction and thought provoking.  My shortest read in 2010 was The Girl Who Played with Fire which I completed in 5 days.  The longest read was Half the Sky which took me 5 months (each chapter was heavy and took some time to digest.) There were big periods of time when I wasn't actively reading anything which I can't explain.  I'm a bit angry with myself for not more actively engaging in something that brings me such joy.  I've decided that 2011 will not be a repeat of 2010 and will be challenging myself to read 50 books in 2011.

Yes, I realize that 50 books is nearly a book a week.  Yes, I realize that this may be a bit crazy, but I'm still going to commit to giving it my best effort.

Do you think you are up to the challenge?  What to join me?  I've created a private group in Goodreads for friends who would like to commit to the same challenge.  If you are interested in joining let me know by email or by leaving a comment on this post and I will send you and invitation to join the group.

Happy Reading!