I like to think of myself as a well rounded reader. In reality I don't think this is really true. I tend to read fiction primarily. I do branch out and read mysteries, and I am supposed to be regularly reading nonfiction, but I think that is really as daring as I get. I am trying to read more essays, and I keep telling myself I need to read more short stories (though am not succeeding wholly in that endeavor). Poetry? Plays? Shh. They seem to be my weakest areas. Now when it comes to fiction, I at least think I am an eclectic reader, but again I think I tend to get drawn to the same sorts of stories over and over again. I rarely pick up or search out science fiction or fantasy novels. I'm not entirely sure why--I guess I like to stick with the familiar perhaps, and science fiction and fantasy are very unfamiliar in my reading.
Although challenges abound these days I have been trying hard to steer clear of them (tempting as they may be!) as I never seem to be able to finish them and then I get sidetracked from my own reading plans. I do think I am going to join in on Carl's upcoming fantasy challenge however. I like to read outside my comfort zone, so this would be a perfect time to look for some fantasy reads. Now then, what exactly does fantasy literature encompass?
"Fantasy is a genre of art that uses magic and other supernatural forms as a primary element of plot, theme, or setting. The genre is generally distinguished from science fiction and horror by overall look, feel, and theme of the individual work, though there is a great deal of overlap between the three (collectively known as speculative fiction). In its broadest sense, fantasy comprises works by many writers, artists, filmmakers, and musicians, from ancient myths and legends to many recent works embraced by a wide audience today." (Wikipedia)
Interestingly the Wikipedia mentions the Epic of Gilgamesh as being the earliest story using mythic elements, which would become central to fantasy literature. I had no idea. I have a few books that I think would work as possible reads for the challenge (perhaps now is the time to finally finish Marion Zimmer Bradley's The Mists of Avalon, or to pull out Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass, Naomi Novik's His Majesty's Dragon, or Neil Gaiman's Stardust?), but I think I am going to need other ideas for this challenge. Any favorites? Is there a fantasy novel that is a classic of the genre that I shouldn't miss (though I have to say, I think I will bow out of reading J.R.R. Tolkien at the moment-I have a feeling he is a classic fantasy author)? Or maybe something off the beaten track? This is such an unknown area to me, it will be fun to explore it a bit. As always suggestions welcome!