Having been raised in the Uinited States, I can understand how British literature and fiction can be difficult for some American born readers. There’s enough difference in style and syntax to drive a mind sideways. if you haven’t practiced at it, you may get bored and put the book down and walk away. Such heresy!
“But I’ve read the Harry Potter books!” you might say. In all liklihood, you’ve read a version edited for an American reading population. yes, they do that. Publishers want YOU, the audience, to by their books and they figure you won’t do it if the text bores you to tears.
How does this issue get fixed? Either an editor takes a manuscript in hand, you you the reader learn to read for yourself. I decided as a child that I was missing out on things and learned to read Chaucer and Shakespeare in the Queen’s English before in American English, quite stubbornly. I even worked my way into the Middle English on my own.
How many people bother with that in this day and age of mass marketed, easy to assimilate, romance novel pap who are not seeking higher education at university?
Try a book sale that handles gently used and new books, many of which come from area estate sales. It’s amazing the number of treasures that are hidden away in the boxes of offerings at one of these events.
The Library Friends of Conroe is a volunteer organization benefiting the Montgomery County Library System. Among the many projects they organize and run, they host a twice yearly Book Sale at the Central Library in Conroe, Texas. All of the books, dvds, VHS tapes, puzzles, music cds and other goodies available at the Book Sale have been donated by members of the community in the hopes that they will recirculate and bring needed funds to the Library.
If you have never been to one of the extravaganzas, it is an experience. There are three large rooms and an entire hallway filled with tables that are covered in books of all types. I have been able to find the most remarkable cookbooks dating back into the 40’s at these tables, and am always willing to go back and check for more.
Beginning on Thursday, October 5th, from 4:30pm to 8:00pm, is First Choice Night. There is no entry free and everyone is welcome. This is the first view of the items for sale and your chance not only to preview, but to make some awesome purchases for your own reading enjoyment and edification.
Also Thursday evening, a silent auction of themed baskets and books will begin at 4:30pm and run through Friday at 4:00pm.
Continuing on Friday, October 6th, 9:00am to 4:30pm, and Saturday, October 7th, 9:00am to 3:00pm, the sale continues in all sale areas.
The famous $2 Bag Sale is on Saturday from 9:00am to 12:30pm in the large meeting room only. The Library Friends will provide you with a bag that you are allowed to pile as many books into as you wish – for only $2. All other areas remain at regular price.
Join us at 104 I-45 North, Conroe, Texas 77301, October 6-8, for a Texas-sized Book Sale! Remember, however, it’s cash or check payment only – no credit or debit cards at this time.
If you happen to miss the Fall Book Sale this year, remember that here is another one in the Spring, and Vicki’s Book Nook at the Central Library which is open whenever the library is.
For more information, please call 936-788-3888 or email lov2read@consolidated.net. You may also visit the MCLS website.
Clean and gently used donations are accepted all year at the Book Nook at the Central Library.
–Ann Cathey
thewanderingtexans 