Dear Ravenous Readers,
Hi there I am looking for a way to see beyond my own boundaries by recovering the habit of reading frequently. I enjoyed reading about biographies of important leaders and their psychology. History of different cultures, mythology. I also like histories like the ones from J.R.R. Tolkien.
Signed,
Infrequently
Dear Infrequent Reader,
So many of us can relate to your need to see beyond your book comfort zone, as well as reading more. It is very easy to get stuck in that rut of the same kinds of books, even to the point we lose interest and stop picking up something new to read. It sounds like you really enjoy learning about people and cultures so luckily for you, there is a giant world of books to look for. Don't stop here though, because we can only skim the surface of the many varied books available.
Let's start with Joseph Campbell, a writer who specialized in mythology and the human existence. This book, The Power of Myth, which is based on a PBS series and details mythological and religious experiences of ancient history to modern. It is a wildly popular book for its thoughtful discussions.
Now if you're looking for something that isn't as wordy, you might also enjoy the wonderful illustrated world of mythology and all the heroes and heroines and Gods around the world in this fun, colorful and fun to read dictionary.
Illustrated Dictionary of Mythology
Have you read this biography on J.R.R. Tolkien?
And maybe you'll delight in the original Grimm Brother's folktales including Rapunzel and Cinderella? Culture, mythology, and a little Tolkien all mixed in one- classics but not quite the way we've come to know them in the movies.
The Original Folk and Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm
There are so many biographies in our library about important leaders that it would be almost impossible to list them in here. If you're interested in politicians around the world and locally, we have them. Just come to the library and tell us know you are interested in and we can show you where to look. Here are some books that might get you started.
I find the story of the people behind the invention and spread of electricity to be a fascinating subject!
I'm a big fan of Sarah Vowell who chronicles history and people with a lot of fun insights and commentary, and in this book she explores the 17th century origins of our ancestors in an attempt to understand what and who America is.
Enjoy!
WB for Ravenous Readers
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Any other ideas for Bummed? Let us know in the comments below!
