How did I find 1000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List? I turned 40 this year. Use this context as appropriate. In 2008, I graduated with a degree in English Literature from a local university. I thought that I was well-read, and I was at the time. Then I stopped reading.
What role does reading currently play in my life? I am in a career that only requires the ability to read and little further. Outside her many other favorable characteristics, my wife’s taste in books varies wildly from mine. The friends with whom I would chat on the topic now have families and responsibilities of their own. My daughter? In her third year, she enjoys a read, but we will stick with Dr. Suess for now. Reading in a collegiate setting was easy, but I had always relied on that guidance and support. With a severe lack of direction, I had to ask, “Where to start?” I decided that trying anything would be a good start.
That is where I found myself at the start of the last post. Where did I get the inspiration to read The Uncommon Reader? James Mustich. Before the past two weeks, this name was unfamiliar. While experiencing this minor existential crisis, I dove down a Google rabbit hole. Each search became increasingly desperate. What books should everyone read? Are there pieces of great literature should everyone read? What books should everyone read in this life? What are 100 books to read before I die? And there it was. 1000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List.
James has curated a list of 1000 books, each with its brief description and discussion. He highlights other works by the authors or other works that readers might enjoy in tandem. In an interview with the author, he states that over 4000 books dot the pages of his book. Although the list leans towards fiction, the suggestions come from many genres.
For now, I am going to try this out. The idea left me wondering what I would suggest to someone. Most of my suggestions feel supremely obvious. For that reason, I will leave the recommendations to the professionals, but I would enjoy hearing from you. If you had to pick one book someone should read before they die, what is it? Maybe I will find a couple of new ones in 1000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List.
Oh, and The Uncommon Reader? What a read! If you haven’t had the pleasure, take it. I just finished Twelfth Night as well. I will be moving on to some Dickens for the holidays: A Christmas Carol.