Monday, May 31, 2021

May 2021 Reading Wrap Up


It's that time of the month: my reading wrap up! This is a separate little series that you won't see over on my bookstagram, so stay tuned here for the wrap up of each month!

The New Jim Crow, Michelle Alexander
Did I read this? Yes    No
How I read it: Ebook, Kindle app
Rating, out of 5 stars: 4 stars

Beyond the Halls, Mackenzie Finklea
Did I read this? Yes    No
How I read it: Ebook, Kindle app
Rating, out of 5 stars:

Elizabeth I, Margaret George
Did I read this? Yes    No
How I read it: Ebook, Kindle app
Rating, out of 5 stars: n/a


Books I read that weren't on my TBR

N/A

Books I started but haven't finished

The Pull of the Stars, Emma Donoghue
How I read it: Ebook, Kindle app

The Nightingale, Kristin Hannah
How I read it: Ebook, Kindle app

The Fountains of Silence, Ruta Sepetys
How I read it: Physical book

Sunday, May 30, 2021

5 Tips for Reading on a Walk


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

No matter the situation, many of us readers want to take every second we can to read, even while walking. But it can be hard to read while walking. In this situation, I would recommend choosing an audiobook over the physical and/or ebooks.

Today's post will focus on __ tips for reading on a walk.


Tip 1: As mentioned above, choose audiobooks over physical or ebooks.
This way, you can keep your eyes on where you're walking and your surroundings. As much as we love having our noses in physical books. it's not the safest choice while on a walk.

Tip 2: Have an audiobook app on your phone.
This way, you're not trying to find the link in a browser. Also, it'll help you out with transitioning between books, changing the narration speed, and so on.

Tip 3: Use headphones or earphones.
Depending on where exactly you are while walking, it can be a bit hard to listen to your audiobook. Using headphones or earphones - and only being half plugged in - will help you listen and pay attention to your surroundings.

Tip 4: Have a place where your phone can be safe.
It can be awkward to be carrying your phone in your hand on a walk, especially if you're on a longer walk (or even hike). So having a place for your phone - a deep pocket, a fanny pack, backpack, or other - can really help out in the long run.

Tip 5: Choose your audiobook based on your mood that day, or based on the mood you want for the walk.
This way, you're not necessarily listening to an upbeat book when you want something a little bit more somber, or vice versa. And you can always switch books partway through your walk.

Saturday, May 29, 2021

5 Tips for Reading in a Moving Vehicle


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

It can be hard to read in a moving vehicle, whether a car, train, or bus. And if you're the one driving, you definitely shouldn't be reading a physical or ebook.

Today's post will focus on 5 tips for reading in a moving vehicle.


Tip 1: Choose an audiobook over the other formats.
If you can read or look down at your phone while in a moving vehicle - and aren't the one driving - then you can definitely choose a physical or ebook. But if you are driving, or get carsick/motion sick easily, choose an audiobook. This way, you can still read in a moving vehicle without getting that annoying nausea.

Tip 2: Have headphones or earphones on hand.
If you're in a moving vehicle with other people, strangers or not, you may want to have headphones or earphones on hand. This way, you can listen to your audiobook without other background noise getting in the way. If you're reading a physical book, having headphones or earphones on hand can help you tune out that same background noise as you read.

Tip 3: Choose audiobooks for longer journeys.
If you have a long ride in a vehicle, it's definitely useful to have an audiobook or two on hand. This way, you can get plenty of reading in during the ride. And if your ride is an hour or more, then you can definitely get a lot of reading in.

Tip 4: Take occasional breaks.
This tip is related to Tip 3. On longer journeys, it might get a bit tiring to listen to hours of an audiobook or two. So break up your reading with music, or even silence.

Tip 5: Choose a listening speed that works best for you and the narration style of the book.
Certain narrators tend to either read very quickly or very slowly. And other narrators have a "normal" narration speed that's easy to keep up with without adjusting it. Most audiobook apps have a way to adjust the narration speed. So if you need to speed up or slow down the narration during your time on the vehicle, do so while the vehicle is stopped. If you're driving, though, adjust the narration speed before you begin driving.

Friday, May 28, 2021

4 Tips for Reading during a Wait


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

You can be in many situations where you have to wait for any amount of time: waiting for an appointment, waiting at the DMV, in a line for whatever reason. The list goes on, which is why I'm keeping this specific post as general as possible.

Today's post will focus on 4 tips for reading during a wait.


Tip 1: It's probably best to use an audiobook or an ebook.
Unless you're able to sit in a waiting room, like at a doctor's appointment, you'll most likely be standing as you wait. And it can become awkward, if not tiring, to be holding up a physical book as you wait. This can become even more of an "issue" if you have a wait of 30 minutes or more. So having an ebook or audiobook is a lot easier on you in the long run of your wait.

Tip 2: Remember to pay attention.
You're waiting - either in line or for your name to be called - for a reason. Remember that, as you read, you may want to pay attention to the wait. So if you're listening to an audiobook, only be partially plugged in so you can pay attention. 

Tip 3: If you have a physical book, have a book sleeve on hand.
Once you're done with your wait and/or are on your way home, you can easily protect your book with your book sleeve.

Tip 4: If you decide to have a physical book, maybe choose a paperback over a hardback.
Paperback books, no matter the size, tend to be lighter in weight than hardbacks. And if you do have a longer wait, your arms and hands won't get tired by holding up a hardback book.

Thursday, May 27, 2021

4 Tips for Reading at a Cafe


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

Today's post will focus on 4 tips for reading at a cafe.


Tip 1: Have headphones, earphones, or ear plugs.
This is another situation, like with yesterday's post, where you may want headphones, earphones, or ear plugs to block out extra noise as you read. There'll be more people closer to you (except now not too close, because of Covid), so if you get distracted easily by people talking or walking by, it might be best to have something to block out excess noise.

Tip 2: While any book format can work at a cafe, ebooks or audiobooks might be best in this situation.
If you get a drink or snack (or both) from the cafe, then you may not want to risk spilling anything on your physical book. But again, any format can work at a cafe.

Tip 3: Get a table by a window, or try to find a comfy chair.
If you plan on staying at the cafe for a little while as you read, you may want to get a window seat or a comfy chair (if the cafe has "comfy" chairs). This way, you can make yourself a little more comfortable as you read.

Tip 4: Wipe off the table before setting your book down.
Goodness knows what was on the table before you sat down at it. Before setting your book on the table, dust it off a little bit, and maybe even wipe it down. That way, the table is as clean as it can be before you set your book down on it.

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

5 Tips for Reading at the Park


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

Today's post will focus on 5 tips for reading at the park.


Tip 1: Bring headphones, earphones, or ear plugs with you.
You don't have to listen to background noise (music, show, etc.) in the background as you read at the park. But having something to cover/plug your ears with can help you focus on the book more rather than what's going on around you. Using headphones, earphones, or ear plugs will help you tune out excess noise.

Tip 2: If it's sunny and/or warm, find a shady area to sit and read.
Finding a shady area to sit and read when it's sunny can help prevent the sun glaring off the pages of your books. And if it's a warm day, the shade can bring needed coolness as you read.

Tip 3: If you're going to a park with no picnic tables or benches, bring a blanket or chair.
Yes, we may all love sitting directly on the grass from time to time. However, if you plan to stay and read for an extended length of time, having a blanket or chair can help prevent grass stains. It can also be more comfortable.

Tip 4: Have water and snacks.
You can have another drink, like coffee or tea, but make sure to have some water on hand. This way, you can stay hydrated while you read. Having snacks can help you as well depending on what time of the day it is and when you eat.

Tip 5: Set a time limit on your time reading in the park.
I included this tip because Covid's still going around. To stay safe, you may not want to be sitting at a park, even with your mask on the entire time, for one or more hours. So give yourself a time limit for how long you'll stay at the park and read.

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

4 Tips for Reading in the Bath


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

This is probably the most controversial reading locations: reading as you take a bath or shower. However, I do think it can be done, given the right precautions and set up.

Today's post will focus on 4 tips for reading in the bath.


Tip 1: Use an audiobook,
Unless you're taking a soak and can keep your hands dry at all times while reading, use an audiobook. This way, you can set your phone or iPad on a counter far from the tub. You're also taking out the risk of dropping your book, phone, iPad, or Kindle into the bathwater.

Tip 2: If you're going to use an ebook or a physical book, have a bath tray of some sort.
You can find bath trays almost anywhere, and it's an easy search on Amazon. This way, you have some barrier between your book and the water in the tub.  And, as mentioned in Tip 1, only use an ebook or physical book if you're soaking and plan keep your hands dry at all times.

Tip 3: Choose a book you have both a physical and audiobook copies of.
This way, you don't have to risk taking the actual book into the bathroom with you. And you can gauge where you are in your physical copy so you can pick up there in your audiobook (or vice versa if you start with the audiobook).

Tip 4: If you're using an ebook or a physical book, have one spot that is for sure dry, and won't be too exposed to water, where you're book will go once you're ready to get out.
This way, you're not risking your book getting wet - or even damaged - by the water. And you'll know to keep that area as dry as possible for your book.

Monday, May 24, 2021

6 Tips for Beach Reading


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

Today's post will focus on 6 tips for reading at the beach.


Tip 1: Any book can work out on the beach, but ebooks are probably your safest bet.
If you don't mind having to dust off a bit of sand from your physical book, then go ahead and bring it. I wouldn't recommend audiobooks, though, just due to the want/need to avoid water getting on your earphones or iPhone/iPad. Ebooks are your safest bet because your iPad, iPhone, or Kindle will most likely have a protective case on it, and you can very easily wipe off sand from it.

Tip 2: Have shade of some sort.
Beaches get sunny, and it happens quickly. So have shade of some sort - an umbrella, a hat, a chair, or maybe a hanging towel or two. Maybe even have a beach tent, and the smaller semicircle ones are relatively cheap on Amazon (if the link doesn't work for you, just type in "beach tent" into your Amazon search bar). This way, it removes some of the sun's glare as you read. Also, wear sunglasses and a hat.

Tip 3: Try to be a safe distance from the water's edge, especially when the tides come in.
High tides tend to be strongest around the full moon, and usually happen at night. But you do get the occasional high tide during the day. That way, you're not getting sprayed by the water when you're reading.


Tip 4: Let your sunscreen set in before picking up your book.
I mentioned this in yesterday's post, but I wanted to reiterate it. No one wants sunscreen oils on their books. So let your sunscreen set in - and maybe wipe/wash your hands if you can - before picking up your book.

Tip 5: Listen to an audiobook on your way to and from the beach.
You can get in some more reading time this way, especially if you have a bit of a drive from your home to the beach. It could be the book you will be reading at the beach, or it could be another book.

Tip 6: Use a book sleeve to protect your book.
This is another tip I brought up in yesterday's post. But I highly recommend having a book sleeve in this scenario. That way, you know for sure that your book is safe while at the beach.

Sunday, May 23, 2021

5 Tips for Pool Reading


Over these last couple of days in May, I plan to post some tips for reading in locations other than the comfort of your home. Some of these locations may be related to your home somehow, or close by, but hopefully these will help you out with reading in these locations.

For many of these reading locations, you can use any book format. However, I will note if there is a better book format to use in a specific location in that specific post.

Today's post will focus on 5 tips for reading at the pool.


Tip 1: An audiobook or ebook may be best for reading at the pool, but you can use any book format.
As I mentioned, you technically can use any book format for reading at the pool. If you don't intend to actually go into the water, then it doesn't matter what book format you have at the pool. However, if you intend to go into the pool, an audiobook or ebook may be best. That way, you're not getting sunscreen or damp hands onto a physical book.

Tip 2: Let your sunscreen completely dry off before picking up your (e)book.
If you choose a physical book or an ebook, don't touch your book until your sunscreen completely sets and dries. You may even want to wipe and/or wash your hands before picking up your book. This way, you're not getting sunscreen on your book.

Tip 3: If you go into the pool, let yourself dry off before picking up your book.
This is similar to Tip 2. But if you get into the pool, it's probably safest to let yourself completely dry off before picking up your book. And I think the reasons are a bit obvious.

Tip 4: Try to be in a spot that's not close to the pool's edge.
No matter the book format, it might be best to sit further away from the edge of the pool. Whether you're using a physical book, an ebook, or an audiobook, water can cause damage to your iPhone, iPad, or physical book. So when you're relaxing in your pool chair, reading, try not to be close to the pool just in case there's quite a bit of splashing.

Tip 5: Try to be under an umbrella.
Believe me - it can be awkward reading with the sun glaring off of a white page. So try being under an umbrella, and maybe wear sunglasses.

Saturday, May 22, 2021

6 Tips for Reading 5+ Books at Once


I know I've done a similar blog post to this one. You can find the posts at the following links: 10 Tips for Reading Multiple Books at Once and 10 Tips for Reading More.

I made a post on Instagram back in April with my currently reading pile at the time. I got a few comments and DMs about that post asking how I do it. "How do I read 8 books at once?" "How do I keep all that information separate?"

So this post will focus on 6 tips for reading 5 or more books at once. All of these tips are things that help me personally in reading 5+ books at once.


Tip 1: Have specific times and places for each of your books.
I try to set aside times and places for when I read each book on my currently reading pile. For me, the times aren't specific time frames (i.e. 3:00-4:00 pm). However, if I'm sitting at my desk working on my blog, that's when I'm listening to an audiobook. In the mornings, when I'm drinking my breakfast shake, that's when I try reading an ebook. When I'm out on a walk or in the car, that's when I try listening to an audiobook.

Tip 2: Use every book format.
Use every single book format to your advantage. Physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks are your friends in reading 5+ books at once. And using each book format works to your advantage in different scenarios. Doing some chores around the house? Listen to an audiobook. Eating a meal or snack? Read an ebook. Having a relaxing moment at a park? Read a physical book.

Tip 3: Read anywhere and everywhere you can.
Reading anywhere you can - and everywhere you can - really helps you out in reading multiple books at once. Going to the beach? Listen to an audiobook on your way there and back, and have an ebook or physical book for reading there. This way, you're devoting time and places (Tip 1) to reading two separate books. Having a pool day? Read a book at the pool. Have an appointment? Bring a book with you just in case you have to wait for a little bit. Whatever situation you can read in, take advantage of it with a book. And Tip 2 really helps you out in this situation.


Tip 4: Read from different time periods or genres.
If you read from various genres, have your books be from different genres. If you tend to read more history or historical fiction, try to have different books set in different places or time periods. This way, your information isn't overlapping with your other books.

Tip 5: Don't rush your reading.
Don't rush your reading. This is one thing that I've noticed leads to a reading burnout and slump. If you try rushing through reading through 5+ books, this can really burn you out with your reading.

Tip 6: Buy a book sleeve.
Buying a book sleeve can really help you transport your books from one place to another. If you're having a beach day and are taking a physical book, having a book sleeve can help keep your book safe and protected, both while taking it to and from the beach and while at the beach.

Friday, May 21, 2021

My Top 10 Fiction Books


It's another book recommendation post!

I thought long and hard about what specific books I could recommend, especially since I don't read a lot of fiction books now. However, after remembering all the fiction books I've read, and looking through all the books on the bookshelves in my house, I was able to compile this list.

This is a list of 10 fiction books that I personally recommend. Any series that I include this list are categorized as "one book" so I include other books in this list.

Here are my Top 10 fiction books, in no particular order.
  1. Helen of Troy, Margaret George
  2. The Phantom Tollbooth, Norton Juster
  3. Circe, Madeline Miller
  4. The Song of Achilles, Madeline Miller
  5. The Paris Orphan, Natasha Lester
  6. The Paris Seamstress, Natasha Lester
  7. The Paris Secret, Natasha Lester
  8. Daughter of Smoke and Bone trilogy, Laini Taylor
  9. The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien
  10. The Lord of the Rings trilogy, J.R.R. Tolkien

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Re-Reading Your Books


Re-reading your books is a bit of a controversial topic within the bookish community. However, that's not what this post will focus on. (I do plan to have a Controversial Bookish Topic post on re-reading in the upcoming months, so stay tuned.)

I was thinking of adding "A Good or Bad Thing" to the title of this post, but then I thought twice about it. "Good" and "bad" are highly subjective. In my opinion, they are up therein the Top 10, if not the Top 5, most subjective words. ("Most" is also subjective, but that's not the point.) Good or bad for me is not what good or bad looks like for you. It also changes depending on the situation you're talking about. So I rest my case: highly subjective words. Which is why I shortened the title of this post to just "Re-Reading Your Books."

Is re-reading your books a "bad" thing? Not really, no. So why do people get a lot of grief for re-reading their books? (Or even thinking about re-reading?)


I think it's because many people think that once you've read a book, then you're over and done with it. This thought process isn't a bad way to go about reading books. If you don't re-read, then you have more opportunity and time to read new books.

Here's my take on the situation. Re-reading books can actually be pretty fun. And here are a few reasons why:
  1. If you're re-reading a favorite, then you can revisit your favorite characters, places, etc. Re-reading allows you to enter a story as many times as you want.
  2. The actor Christopher Lee read The Lord of the Rings trilogy once a year.
  3. If you weren't sure about your feelings on a particular book, re-reading it gives you a chance to work out what you liked, didn't like, etc.
  4. If a new book is being added to a series, then re-reading the first book(s) can refresh your memory on what happened.
  5. Re-reading can be used to add to your yearly reading challenge, like the one on Goodreads.
One thing you should avoid doing is telling another reader that they should or shouldn't re-read. Re-reading isn't for everyone. That's perfectly okay.

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

My Overall Thoughts After My Experiment of Re-Reading and Note Taking


I know, I know. I have made quite a few posts on this topic. At this point, I think one could argue that I'm beating a dead horse by making one more post about note taking while you read. Hopefully, though, today's post will give a different perspective on this topic. After today's post, I'll take the rest of the year off from talking about this.

Yesterday's post was specifically on my thoughts for SPQR, so go check it out: My Thoughts on Mary Beard's SPQR After Reading and Taking Notes on It.

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I was picking up on a lot of little details that I either didn't remember or totally skipped over when comparing my first and second reads of SPQR. I think that taking notes while I re-read it definitely helped me do this.


So here are 4 tips for taking notes while you read in general.

Be consistent. This is a tip I've brought up before. Consistency is key when you're taking notes as you read. It can come in your format of note taking: don't switch up your note taking method half-way through a single book. In also can come in how long you take notes: don't stop taking notes half-way through. Being consistent will help you out in the long run.

Don't limit yourself to one note taking style. You don't have to only use post it notes, or only electronic documents. While being consistent in your note taking method for one, specific book is useful, you can change it up from book to book.

Pace yourself. Reading while taking notes will take you longer than it normally takes you to read. If you normally read a 200-300 page book in a week, it may take you 2+ weeks to read that same book while taking notes on it. This is okay. Taking notes while you read will naturally draw out the length of time you spend reading the book. And if you have other priorities, that'll add a bit more time too. So pace your reading time for the book you're taking notes on.

Don't read more than one book to take notes on. Have your currently reading pile as large or small as you want it to be. But only have one book on your currently reading pile that you're taking notes on. This way, your mind can be focused on one book for your notes. And it also helps if you're taking notes by hand - you don't have to try to figure out how to organize your notes.

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

My Thoughts on Mary Beard's SPQR After Reading and Taking Notes on It


Last reading dates: May 3-17, 2018
Most recent reading dates: March 18 - May 18, 2021

Rating: 5/5 stars
Updated Review: I definitely enjoyed this book way more during this second time reading it. I picked up on a lot of things that I didn't quite remember from my last time reading it. I also picked up on a lot of points that I missed during my first read of the book. A lot of this was due to taking notes on SPQR while I read it this time around,  Beard really did a good job in focusing on as much as she could in the book. However, she also admitted that it is virtually impossible to truly focus on every single detail of Rome's history due to its vastness. I truly applaud Mary Beard in getting all the information she did on Rome within a 536-page book (606 pages including further reading, a timeline, acknowledgements, a list of illustrations, and an index).

An image of my copy of Mary Beard's
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

So what are my general thoughts after re-reading Mary Beard's SPQR and taking notes on it? I definitely think that it benefitted me in the long run. Will I remember all of the information that's in the book? Probably not off the top of my head. But that's why I took notes on it.

But, for me at least, here's why the re-read and note-taking was beneficial:
  1. It gave me more to think about when I take in information about Rome. It also gave me something to contemplate when someone says or refers to "Rome," because it can honestly mean so much.
  2. I learned the really fun fact that Cicero and Catiline had a debate on my birthday in 63 BCE. This is a piece of information I missed in my first read. So now I can just blurt this out randomly.
  3. I can easily refer to my thoughts on the book if and when needed.

Monday, May 17, 2021

I Love Spring Book Tag!


It's the time of month for another book tag! If I'm being honest, I would publish a bunch of book tag posts all at the same time. But I'm trying to space them out a bit so that I can have some regularly reliable content from month to month.

Today, I'll be doing the "I Love Spring" book tag! Here's the link to the original post - Reading, Reading, Reading: I Love Spring Book Tag! As with all of my book tag posts, I'll have the clean questions (just the questions, and no answers) at the end of the blog post.


How is spring where you are?
I'm from Los Angeles, California. There's a joke amongst many native born and raised people from Los Angeles that LA weather and seasons are "Pre-Summer, Summer, Fake Fall, Fire, Fake Fall, Pre-Winter" on repeat each year. Spring in LA tends to be between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit (around 15-23 degrees Celcius). It sometimes does get to 80+ degrees Fahrenheit (26+ degrees Celcius) depending on the day.

What is your most anticipated book this spring?

Show a book cover that makes you think of spring.
This cover of Natasha Lester's
The Paris Secret

Where are you going to read this spring?
I have so much planned, but I hope to reread Natasha Lester's books.

Find a book cover with the sun on it.
The Sun is Also a Star by
Nicola Yoon

Favorite spring reads?
Historical romance books. I don't like it when the book is saturated in romance, but I think that historical romance is a great genre for spring

Find a book with many colors on it.
The Jungle Book by
Rudyard Kipling


How is spring where you are?
What is your most anticipated book this spring?
Show a book cover that makes you think of spring.
Where are you going to read this spring?
Find a book cover with the sun on it.
Favorite spring reads?
Find a book with many colors on it.

Sunday, May 16, 2021

The Historian Dilemma: “The Middle Ages is Just a Nice Name for the Dark Ages”


There are a lot of people who think that, as the title of this post suggests, “the Middle Ages is just a nice name for the Dark Ages.” Even though I plan to go into Egyptology for my career, it bothers even me when I hear people say this.

Why do people think that "Middle Ages" is a sugar-coated term for the "Dark Ages"? It's mainly due to many people don't think that a lot of stuff happened during the Middle Ages. This simply isn't true. While "things" may not have happened from a 21st century perspective, there were still things going on from roughly the 5th to the 15th centuries.


This is why "Dark Ages" is not a good term for the time from around 400s (5th century) to about the1400s (15th century). Yes, the 21st century has a very different take on what "going on" means, but as with any every aspect of the study of history, you should try to not apply 21st century ideals or thoughts onto the past.

Here's a bit of a clarification: "Dark Ages" = "Middle Ages" = "Medieval". So if you live in the United States and like going to Medieval Times, you cannot say that there wasn't anything going on during this time.

It's not too hard to look up a timeline of events for the Middle Ages, but here's a quick link: The 50 Most Important Events of the Middle Ages.

Saturday, May 15, 2021

The Bookish Dilemma: Bookshelf Organization and Storage


I plan to have this post short since I've done many posts on the tips, pros, cons, and benefits of the different bookshelf organization methods. All of my posts on the different bookshelf organization methods will be linked together in a link list gadget to the right of the blog. (If you're viewing my blog via a phone or mobile device, you'll have to scroll to the bottom and then click "Web View" to view the link list gadget.)

How do you decide to organize your books on your bookshelves? It depends on your own preferences and how you remember your books. If you remember your books by the color of their cover, then organization by color may be the best way for you, even if it separates series. If you remember the books by their author, then you may want to organize your books alphabetically.


Here are some things to not be afraid of or avoid (i.e. don't fear or avoid these organization techniques):
  • Combining different organization methods. It can be helpful to "micro-organize" as I call it. Choose a general organization method - color, genre, etc. - and then choose a sub organization method - alphabetical, height, etc.
  • Stacking your books. Sometimes, you don't have a lot of space for all of your books, even if you have 2+ bookshelves. Stacking your books in one of two ways - either one on top of the other, or one in front of the other (back to front of the bookshelf) - can help you condense your books into a slightly smaller books.

Friday, May 14, 2021

Controversial Bookish Topic: Book Storage and Organization


I spent roughly 11 post talking about all the different organization methods you can use for your bookshelf (or bookshelves if you have more than one). But I know that certain organization methods are "controversial" within the bookish community, which is why I'm doing this post.

I think the biggest "controversial" organization method is organizing your books by color. Many of the arguments around it is that organizing by color separates book series, authors, etc.

As I said in most (if not all) of my posts here on bookshelf organization, it's really up to you and your preferences how your books are organized. If you're not sure what your preferences are, most of my posts on bookshelf organization have some pros, cons, and benefits to the different organization methods.


Here's what I'll say for the last time: there's no "right" or "wrong" way in organizing your books. They're just books, and it's okay for another person to prefer a bookshelf organization method that's different from the one(s) you prefer.

My personal preference is that I like to have my books alphabetized to some degree. Sometimes, I'll have an overarching organization method like genre, and then I'll organize alphabetically within each genre. But that's my personal preference, and I know not everyone's going to like or use it.

Should it bother you if someone doesn't like your preferred organization method(s) for your books? No. Why? It's their bookshelves, their books. Not yours. And vice versa - it shouldn't bother them if you don't like their preferred organization method(s) for their books.

Thursday, May 13, 2021

5 Situations Where Having a Book on Hand Can Help You Out


This is a tip I've suggested quite a few times. Whether it's here on my blog in reading tips posts, in person, or over DM on social media. This post will focus on why it's good to have a book on hand all the time if you want to read more.

I also feel like I'm never really able to eloquently explain why it's a good habit to have. This post is here to get my thoughts out in an organized way. I decided to focus on __ situations where you can have a book on hand to read more. Feel free to share this post with your friends or family who want to read more.

I do want to say one before continuing this post. In each situation I present, you could have any format of book on hand. It doesn't matter if you're using an ebook, audiobook, or physical book. Just use the best format that works for you in the moment.


Situation 1: You're waiting in a line.
If you're waiting in a line for whatever reason, having a book can help you pass the time until you're out of the line. In this scenario, it might be easier to have an ebook or audiobook that you read, since you're most likely standing in line.

Situation 2: You have an in-person appointment.
Yes, we're all trying to avoid in-person appointments due to our current situation. However, if you absolutely need to have an in-person appointment, having a book that you can pull out and read can help you pass the wait time immediately before your appointment.

Situation 3: You're having a beach or pool day, but you don't feel like getting in the water.
We all have those days: we're having a beach or pool day with friends and/or family, but we don't want to get in the water. Having a book on hand will help you pass the time as you sit in the chair during your time at the beach or pool.

Situation 4: You're waiting in your car for whatever reason.
If you went out with a family member or friend and stayed in the car for whatever reason, that's a good time to get in a little reading. Even if you only get in a page or two, you can still get in some reading.

Situation 5: You're driving somewhere.
If you're the driver, please do not read a physical or ebook book. If you're driving, please use an audiobook. However, if you're a passenger, read to your heart's content until the drive is over. If you get motionsick like I do, use an audiobook so that you don't get sick on your car ride.

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

My Thoughts on Taking Notes via Electronic Documents as You Read


Given my recent posts, I figured I'd give my thoughts on each of the note taking methods for reading. While I wanted to share my thoughts with you on each method, I didn't want to go back and add more to the posts, So here we are.

I'll be going in the same order as I did with my posts on the tips for each note-taking method: marginalia, post-it notes, notebooks, and electronic documents. How you personally feel about each note taking method - and about taking notes while reading - is wholly up to you. If you don't take notes while you read, that's fine. If you do, hopefully my posts on taking notes while reading help you.


Here are the positives of electronic documents:
  1. It's quicker to record your notes. The first negative for electronic documents (and for notebooks) is that you have to be a bit more detailed with your notes. Since you're typing, though, you can get through roughly a paragraph of thoughts in about 5 minutes.
  2. It's very easy to have structured notes. With notebooks, it's a little hard to structure your notes and keep the structure the same throughout since you're writing by hand. However, with typing up your notes, it's easy to have the same structure throughout your notes with little to no difference except in your actual thoughts.
  3. Color coding is your best friend. It's so easy to color code your notes in an electronic document. And color coding can help you differentiate between different sections of your notes.
Here are the negatives of electronic documents:
  1. You still have to be a bit more detailed with your notes. With marginalia or post-it notes, you know what your notes are talking about - since your notes are right next to the text. But with e-documents, you may need to include page numbers, chapter notes, and even partial quotes. This can be a bit tiresome, even if you're typing up your notes.
  2. You won't be carrying your computer or iPad everywhere you carry your book. Unless you have Google Drive/Docs or Microsoft Word on your phone as apps, you're not going to have your notes handy wherever you go and have a book. (And carrying a computer or iPad around everywhere isn't something everyone does.)
  3. While you don't need to find a place for your notes, it can be awkward to access at times. You don't need to find a place for electronic notes, since they'll be on your computer, Google Drive, or Microsoft website (when you sign in, of course). But, similarly with Point 2, technology can be hard to manage at times, making it awkward to access your notes when you may need them.

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

My Thoughts on Taking Notes via Notebooks as You Read


Given my recent posts, I figured I'd give my thoughts on each of the note taking methods for reading. While I wanted to share my thoughts with you on each method, I didn't want to go back and add more to the posts, So here we are.

I'll be going in the same order as I did with my posts on the tips for each note-taking method: marginalia, post-it notes, notebooks, and electronic documents. How you personally feel about each note taking method - and about taking notes while reading - is wholly up to you. If you don't take notes while you read, that's fine. If you do, hopefully my posts on taking notes while reading help you.


Here are the positives of notebooks:
  1. You have an ample amount of space. You essentially have an unlimited amount of space for your notes, as long as you have relatively easy access to empty notebooks. You can write as much or as little as you want without worrying about the size of the margins or post-it notes.
  2. It's easier to elaborate on your thoughts. Since you're not worried about space, you can go into detail about your thoughts on a scene, character, chapter, or the book as a whole. And even if you have to start up a new notebook, you still have space to write all your thoughts out.
  3. If you structure your notes well, it'll be easy to find pages, quotes, scenes, etc. It doesn't matter what "structure" you settle on, but once you set up how you'll take your notes, it'll be easy to go back and find what your notes were about.
Here are the negatives of notebooks:
  1. You may not have a lot of space for the notebooks themselves. While the notebooks themselves have space for your notes, you may not be able to find an easy, convenient spot for the notebook itself. And if you have multiple notebooks full of notes, it can be harder to find a single spot for all of them.
  2. You may have to split your notes on one book into two notebooks. Unless you've decided to have each notebook be for a different book, you're likely to have notes for 2+ books in one notebook. As a result, one book may start in one notebook and then end in another notebook. This can be a little complicated when you're trying to keep your notes together.
  3. You do have to be a bit more detailed with your notes. With marginalia or post-it notes, you know what your notes are talking about - since your notes are right next to the text. But with notebooks, you may need to include page numbers, chapter notes, and even partial quotes. This can be a bit tiresome.

Monday, May 10, 2021

My Thoughts on Taking Notes via Post-It Notes While You Read


Given my recent posts, I figured I'd give my thoughts on each of the note taking methods for reading. While I wanted to share my thoughts with you on each method, I didn't want to go back and add more to the posts, So here we are.

I'll be going in the same order as I did with my posts on the tips for each note-taking method: marginalia, post-it notes, notebooks, and electronic documents. How you personally feel about each note taking method - and about taking notes while reading - is wholly up to you. If you don't take notes while you read, that's fine. If you do, hopefully my posts on taking notes while reading help you.


Here are the positives of post-it notes:
  1. You don't have to write directly in your book, but your notes are still in your book. Yes, it may bother you to have writing directly in your book. (It's okay if you feel this way.) Yet if you still want your notes directly in your book, post-it notes are the way to go.
  2. You have a bit more room. I mentioned in the post on May 6th that you'll want to go for the smaller post-it notes. But even then, you still have a bit more writing space than just the marginalia. And, if needed, you can always put in multiple small post-its on one page.
  3. It's easy to jump from note to note. Post-its make it easy to jump to a specific page. Depending on how you lined up the post-it notes (there's no wrong way), it makes it easy to jump from a note on page 10 to a different note on page 100.
Here are the negatives of post-it notes:
  1. You do need to have them constantly on hand, wherever you go. If you go out and take your book, you may not always remember to bring your post-it notes with you. And it's not a common practice to have post-it notes in your bag unless you're a student. As mentioned in my posts with the tips, you want to be consistent in your note-taking - and forgetting post-its can have an effect on this habit.
  2. Sometimes you do need bigger post-it notes. The main reason I recommend small post-it notes is because the larger ones take up a lot of space - and sometimes, you're only commenting on a single word, phrase or sentence, so a bigger post-it notes end up being only about half used. But sometimes, depending on how many thoughts you have, you do need a bigger post-its. 
  3. It can make your books a bit bulkier. Yes, post-it notes are thin. But if you have a lot in one book, that adds up in the long run. So it can make your book slightly bulkier. It won't be a huge deal, but sometimes your books just fit in your bookshelf, and the post-it notes make it a tight fit.

Sunday, May 9, 2021

My Thoughts on Taking Notes via Marginalia as You Read


Given my recent posts, I figured I'd give my thoughts on each of the note taking methods for reading. While I wanted to share my thoughts with you on each method, I didn't want to go back and add more to the posts, So here we are.

I'll be going in the same order as I did with my posts on the tips for each note-taking method: marginalia, post-it notes, notebooks, and electronic documents. How you personally feel about each note taking method - and about taking notes while reading - is wholly up to you. If you don't take notes while you read, that's fine. If you do, hopefully my posts on taking notes while reading help you.


Here are the positives of marginalia:
  1. All you need is your book and a pen or pencil. If you're going out, you don't need to worry about bringing any other accessories like a notebook, post-it notes, or another electronic device.
  2. You don't have to figure out where to put your notes. They're in your book, so wherever the book is placed is where your notes are.
  3. You don't have to go hunting for your notes. This similar with point two, since your notes are in your book. You don't have to look through notebooks or documents on your computer to find your notes.
Here are the negatives of marginalia:
  1. It's easier to use pencil over pen. While in point 1 of the positives, I say "pen or pencil," it's honestly the safest bet to use pencil. If you make a mistake, there's not a lot of room to cross it out and write next to it. With a pencil, you can erase your mistake.
  2. It works best with physical books. While you can have a form of "marginalia" with ebooks (i.e. highlighting the text and then making a "comment"), you don't see your thoughts directly next to the text - you have to tap a few times to get to your notes. And with audiobooks, you can "bookmark" certain places, but you need another accessory to take actual notes.
  3. There's not a lot of space. While it is a convenient spot for notes, the margins in books are small. If you have a lot of thoughts on a scene, phrase, or character, then it's not the best note taking method. And if you write big, then there's even less space.