A field you hate

If you are up for a reading challenge.

Pick a type of fiction you hate. Maybe science fiction, fantasy, mystery, romance, whatever.

Do a little research, find out what one very highly regarded and popular book in that field is and read it for pure enjoyment.

Did you like it?

Now, read it a second time, but this time to study how the author wrote the book. Style. Usage. Point of view.

Did you learn anything?

All too often we get in reading ruts. There is nothing wrong with this - what can be wrong with reading what you enjoy? But every once in a while, you should stretch yourself.

While I'm ok with sword & sorcery and fantasy, I deplore "modern fantasy," that is stories with magic and such taking place in the modern day. I hate 'em.

Well, years ago, a friend of mine was a freak for Neil Gaiman. I absolutely refused to read his books, despite her insistence I do so. We drifted apart as friends sometimes do, and one day I picked up Neverwhere by Gaiman, whom I speak of frequently on here. I'm not sure why I purchased the book because it has everything I just hate - a modern setting but one where magical and amazing creatures living and operate among us. Of course, we don't know it. Give me a fucking break.

But I loved it.

Gaiman is one of the best storytellers alive today, but I'd have never known it if I didn't stretch my boundaries just a little.

So, while you are out there, try stretching yourself...even if just a little.