Tag Archives: pandemic reading

(NOT) READING IN THE AGE OF COVID-19

Late Last Night Books

It turns out I’m not the only one having trouble reading lately. The struggles to get through a book seem pervasive as so many of us shelter in place–even for hardcore bookworms.

READERS HAVING TROUBLE READING

With all the holes in my calendar during the COVID-19 pandemic, I thought I’d be ripping through my library. Instead I find it hard to concentrate. So last month I asked if this sounded familiar.

It certainly did with most of my Facebook friends. Many reported having trouble reading as well. Most–many of them serious readers and some of them professional writers themselves–confirmed that they are having trouble concentrating on books these days.

I have yet to read an entire book during this pandemic

To my friend Nancy, having so much time to read ironically makes reading less precious, and less desirable.  

READING IN THE AGE OF COVID-19

Late Last Night Books

Like many friends, I thought a small silver lining of the COVID-19 shut-ins would be a chance to do a lot of reading. I was wrong.

I’ve been shut in for about 6 weeks now, and I’m still only on book number two. I haven’t made much progress on my backlog of magazines and journals either.

It’s Not Just Me

It turns out I’m not alone. Many friends have reported the same problem. They have plenty of time, and yet it seems to be consumed by Zoom calls and cleaning, daily walks, and the treacherous task of getting groceries.

It’s hard to keep your mind on the books when CNN keeps featuring Dr. Fauci.

Plenty of Books

Part of the excuse is that libraries are closed.