Are You a Re-Reader?

Are you a re-reader?

San Francisco Sunset

When it comes to talking about our favourite movies, books and influences, there seems to be a big divide between those who love to re-read their favourite books and re-watch the movies they loved and those who don’t. I definitely fall into the re-reader category, some books have been on my shelf since the 80’s and will not be going anywhere anytime soon!

I will admit, there’s a particular joy in finding a great book and reading it through for the first time. That sense of expectation, the suspense and the journey are greatly heightened in the first read through because it’s first time discovery.  Second and subsequent readings lack this, and I see the point, in general, there’s no surprises in terms of plot at least.

But I fall squarely into the category of people that re-read their favourites, and thoroughly enjoy them as I do. Subtleties that may have passed me by come to the fore when I have more attention to focus on smaller characters and interactions that I may have skimmed in order to get to the great finale in an earlier reading. I find it’s a richer experience when reading for a subsequent time, and if I’ve enjoyed the book, I think I owe it at least that much.

I also find that certain novels mean different things to me as I pass through stages of life. Young adult angst, busy mum comedy and a really good scare all appeal at different times, and a book that may have been average a few years ago, might now take on a whole new meaning today. So this week, instead of attacking a brand new novel, I’ll be revisiting some old friends. The only problem is deciding which one….