Wow...lots of great ideas, recommendations, and a lot of teasing out the "whys" of re-reading...I am grateful for everything, even the comments on book scarcity and language retention were on point.
And for an update. The discussion was held, and I was surprised at the number of people that chose a book they were "meaning" to read, so I guess I'm less of a gambler in that regard. I've read enough recommended books to know the hazards. Like Wuthering Heights (I stay away from people who identify strongly with that book!)
So lots of books were discussed, including practical ones for the urbanites.
I also found a few of my selections to be unconventional.
Bartlett's Quotations, for the occasions where I'd like a thought or inspiration, rather than several pages.
And I'll blame Shakleton (sp?) for my selection of a songbook. I do like to sing, though I'm unschooled, and if left without actual text, I'd've substituted some words and lost some of the meaning of what I'm attempting.
So a few of my choices reflected not rereading. I did pick Moby Dick, as I'd have an adventure by the sea to re-read. I enjoy Tolkien, Dune (haven't explored past the first book, though, and am attempting to warm up to some of the Russians, though we're discussing having another little one, so if that happens The List of Reading will get longer before it gets shorter!
Happy New Year,
A.
