I'm currently reading Open City by Teju Cole. And I like it. It isn't the best book I have ever read, but it is not bad. Not bad at all. I am about 3/4 of the way through and nothing is compelling me to finish. I don't need to find out "what happens." I don't need to know where everyone goes. I am happy with the book as is.
Should I finish it?
I never would have asked this question before I read the article I link to above.
I think it is perfectly acceptable to toss away books that you don't like. The Help being one of the best examples in recent memory. I don't care how many people liked it. I refused ... flat out refused to read past page 30. I could not stand it. Close it. Set it aside. Pick up something worthwhile.
Open City has been worthwhile. But I kind of feel I have had enough. Not in a bad way. Just content with what I know about it today.
And if you don't finish it by choice, do you get to put it on your books of the month/year lists?
4 comments:
I know there are differences of opinion on this; I don't count it if I don't finish it.
There isn't a book unfinished, yet, for me this year although there are a couple I'm struggling with.
I don't count them for any challenges which may be why I haven't given up on them yet.
that "Gina" is me
forgot to mention that I didn't read the article before commenting
My rule is: if I read at least 3/4 of it, I count it. Because I know there will be other books that I'll only read 1/4 of that I won't count, so I figure it all balances out. :)
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