I’m sure you’ve seen this “10 books” chain post thing on Facebook. The rule goes something like, “HOW TO PLAY: List 10 books that have stayed with you in some way. Don’t take more than a few minutes, and don’t think too hard. It’s not about the “right book” or great works of literature, just ones that have affected you in some way. Doesn’t have to be in order. Then tag 10 friends or more and me so I can see your list.”
I’ve seen friends post their lists – some of the lists are quite impressive, too – and I’ve been tagged once, but I didn’t want to post a list on Facebook because, quite frankly, it makes me feel embarrassed that I haven’t read any of the “greats.” I’m supposed to know these things, but I can’t say I’ve read anything written by the great literary fiction authors of our time or most of the classics while you’re at it. I’m not much of a lit fiction reader and I haven’t read most of the popular ones (even though I have copies of some). The number of classic novels I’ve read? I can count them off with my fingers. GAH. I am terrible.