How often do I do this? How does the stack of library books I always seem to have, grow so quickly. They are like weeds. No matter how many I read and return there are always more. Last night I had to do some weeding (no pun intended) and cut the stack in half. I pulled out the ones that I want to own that will be coming out in paper soon, and a few more that while look appealing, I just know I am not going to get read. Then put two back that I really do want to try and get read. Return the stack of unfortunates, and come home with three new books. A never ending process!
I don't feel too guilty with my "new" stack of library loans--16 total. Three are DVDs. One is a needlework book that I won't actually read, but am using the diagrams for reference, two are less than 150 pages, and there is this book--1001 Books That You Must Read Before You Die, edited by Peter Boxall. I know the hype over this book has died down, but I never did find it at my local bookstore. I finally put my name on the library list and now I can peruse it at my leisure at home. I know there have been many criticisms of the book. Too many modern authors. Too many books by one author. Not enough classical literature. Too arbitrary. Well, that's a "must read" book list for you. You are never going to please everyone. And yes, some of the selections are probably somewhat arbitrary, but it seems like a fairly standard list to me really. It is definitely worth a look, though--especially if you can check it out from the library and take your time with it.
For me, I think it is a rather fun little book (it really is not that large, just very thick). And it is loaded with fun illustrations! I might even break down and order a copy. Yes, there are lots of modern authors, but many I am not that familiar with. I like finding new books, and they must be relatively good to be included. There will never be a definitive list of books that Must Be Read. Too many choices. I would never even get them all read anyway. But it is fun to read about a variety of new and old books--I am sure I will find plenty to add to my List!