17 August 2009

Weekly Geeks: Second Chances


Second Chances



There have been times in my life where I reread a book (or author) I hated--or thought I hated--but the second time around ended up loving. Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever changed your mind about a book or author the second time around? Have you ever given a book or author a second chance?

If you have, I'd love to hear your stories. Blog about your experience(s) in giving second chances. If you haven't, I'd like you to consider giving a book or an author a second chance. You can blog about your intentions to do so--or if you're a quick reader, maybe you can even squeeze something in! Can't think of a single book or author? Don't worry, you can stretch this one to include movies or music if you prefer. It is just very interesting to me how time can change tastes and perceptions. How subjective the reading experience is and always will be. Leave your answers (links) in the comments!
I have one from high school that was my love-to-hate book: The Grapes of Wrath. The teacher pretty much killed any love of reading in his class when he assigned quizzes over each chapter. Not content with "What happened in this chapter" questions but really nit-picky questions about the symbolism of every single element in Steinbeck's book. Needless to say I wasn't too keen on Steinbeck anymore and loathed any and all references to The Grapes of Wrath including the movie adaptation. Think of it as an allergy; any mention of The Grapes of Wrath and I'd start developing itchy welts.
Over the years I acquired the pretty Steinbeck Centennial trade paperback editions. They look inviting, don't they? It pays to be a book hoarder sometimes because I decided to attempt a Steinbeck since I had the volumes on my shelves. I started with East of Eden; it was really good. I started reading The Grapes of Wrath in July. It's not too bad. I haven't broken out in hives, yet, so we'll see.

2 comments:

  1. Well, let us know! Especially if you're super enthusiastic because I put it in several challenges so I'll have to read it this year... (but I'm not really tempted yet although I have a bookcrossing copy waiting on the shelf).

    In other words: please help me start reading Grapes of Wrath? :P

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  2. Melissa, I've re-read The Grapes of Wrath about four times now, all in an effort to figure out what the fuss is. I hate that book. Seriously and truly and still wonder how something SO depressing can be considered a classic. Good luck with your re-read!

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