Put That Book Down

To DNF or not to DNF

I’m not a book author. It’s too hard. I give huge props to anyone who can write a book. Not all books are loved by all readers. Reading is a choice, something we do for pleasure. If a book isn’t bringing you the joy, action, suspense, sci-fi, romance, knowledge you’re looking for,  put it down. Pick up another. By my saying it’s okay to put down a book you’re not into, I’m not saying that it’s not written well, (or is it well written? See?) it’s just that it’s not working (for whatever reason) for you at that particular space in time. It’s okay.

I used to think not finishing a book was weak. Now I see it as a strength. It’s a tough decision to put down a book you had high hopes for. If a book doesn’t work for us, it’s a disappointment; we want to like what we’re reading. But, honestly, why waste the time you could spend reading something you enjoy on one you are not. First of all, we are never going to run out of books to read. If this one isn’t holding your interest, why slog through it? You’re probably smart enough to know what interests or stimulates you. Sure, sometimes you take a chance on a recommendation, or a pretty cover, or maybe it’s ‘buzzy’ (ugh). but that doesn’t work all the time. The following might be some reasons, all valid, one puts a book down (puts down a book?):

It’s taking too long to grab your interest. You’re busy. It isn’t about what you thought it was going to be about. The dust jacket was misleading. You’re not in the mood for it at this time. It just sucked. The main character is annoying to you. It’s like a book you’ve recently read. You’re distracted by thinking about a different book you want to read. You find yourself reading the same paragraph three times. All clues this book isn’t worth your time. Start over with another one. It’s okay. Books are a little like buses, another one will come along soon.

Since I started writing on this subject, it’s all I hear about on my literary podcasts. Readers seem a little hesitant to admit they DNF’d a book but eventually we all do it. If you don’t, good for you. (Although I’m not sure I believe you.) If you do, congratulations, you’re on your way to your next great read. Feel good, strong.




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