Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly meme originally created and hosted by Rukky @ Eternity Books starting in August 2019, and was then cohosted by Dani @ Literary Lion from May 2020 to March 2022. Since April 2022, the meme moved to another host, Aria @ Book Nook Bits.
Let’s Talk Bookish is a meme where participants discuss specific topics, share their opinions, and share their love by visiting each other’s posts.

Hello, readers! It’s time for a brand-new topic, and this week’s question is all about personal connections with the books we read

Reading is more than just a pastime—it’s an invitation to connect, reflect, and grow. Each book, whether fiction or nonfiction, presents an opportunity to see parts of ourselves or the world from a fresh perspective. As someone who finds joy in both reading and exploring various hobbies, I’ve often noticed how the books I read can influence and resonate with my life, often in surprising ways.

Are there ways that the books you read connect to your life?

One of the most satisfying aspects of reading is discovering a character or situation that mirrors your own experiences. It’s as though the author has reached into your mind and captured a piece of your life story. For me, this happens often, especially with fiction. Novels with richly developed characters allow me to see my own emotions and challenges from a new perspective, helping me process what I’m going through in a different way.

I’m particularly drawn to novels that explore major life transitions—whether it’s moving to a new city, starting a new career, or navigating the ups and downs of personal relationships. These kinds of stories resonate deeply with me, especially during moments of change in my own life. There’s something incredibly comforting about seeing a character work through their challenges, and it reminds me that growth and uncertainty are universal experiences.

When these stories include some of my favorite romance tropes—like falling for a brother’s best friend, a steamy office romance, or a thrilling mafia or sports romance—they’re even more impactful. The added layers of tension and emotional depth make the journey all the more captivating. Even if the setting or the circumstances are far from my own reality, the emotional core of the story still strikes a chord. It’s not just about escapism; it’s about empathy, connection, and understanding the complexity of human relationships in all their forms.

Do you like to read books that relate to your non-bookish hobbies or interests, like sports or art?

Absolutely! I love reading books that relate to my non-bookish hobbies and interests, as they often enhance my enjoyment and understanding of the stories. I’ve noticed that my love for certain hobbies really influences the types of books I’m drawn to. I enjoy photography, cooking, knitting, and, of course, reading—particularly romance genres like sports romance, mafia romance, and mysteries. Each of these hobbies adds a unique layer to the stories I connect with.

For instance, my passion for creativity through photography and cooking often leads me to books with detailed world-building or intricate character development. I love stories that mirror the care and attention I put into my hobbies, as they feel particularly relatable and enriching. Sports romance resonates with me, too, because I admire the intensity and passion of competition, even though I’m more of a casual player myself. I find that these stories capture the thrill of the game and the personal journeys of the characters involved.

Similarly, mafia romance captivates me with its blend of danger and intrigue, while mysteries keep me guessing and fully engaged. There’s something thrilling about unraveling a plot or getting caught up in a high-stakes situation, much like the suspense I feel when trying to perfect a new recipe or complete a knitting project.

Overall, my hobbies and interests significantly shape my reading tastes, allowing me to connect more deeply with the stories and characters I encounter. Reading becomes not just a pastime but a way to explore and celebrate the passions I love in my life.

Do the books that connect to your life tend to be more fiction or nonfiction (or both)?

The books that connect to my life tend to be more fiction. While I appreciate nonfiction for its practical insights and factual knowledge, it’s the emotional depth and imaginative landscapes of fiction that truly resonate with me. Fiction allows me to explore complex feelings, relationships, and life transitions through the experiences of its characters. When I read about someone navigating a challenging situation or experiencing personal growth, I often find parallels to my own life, which helps me process my own emotions and experiences.

Fiction offers a sense of empathy and connection that feels profoundly relevant. The characters, even though they are creations of an author’s imagination, often embody struggles and triumphs that mirror my own. Whether it’s a romance that captures the excitement and uncertainty of love or a character facing a significant life change, these stories help me feel seen and understood.

In contrast, while nonfiction provides valuable information and can inspire self-improvement, it doesn’t typically evoke the same emotional connection for me. Fiction is where I find the stories that speak to my heart, offering both escapism and a deeper understanding of the human experience. It’s through these fictional narratives that I connect most powerfully to my own life journey.

Have you ever discovered a new hobby from reading a book?

Absolutely! I’ve discovered several new hobbies from reading books, and it’s always a delightful surprise. One of the most memorable experiences was when I read a novel featuring a character who was passionate about knitting. As I followed her journey, I became fascinated by the process and creativity involved in the craft. I decided to give it a try myself, and now knitting has become one of my favorite ways to unwind and express my creativity.

Baking, also, has become a favorite hobby of mine; there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating delicious treats from scratch, whether it’s a simple loaf of bread or a more intricate dessert.

Overall, reading has not only entertained me but has also opened doors to new interests and hobbies that I might not have considered otherwise. Each book offers a chance to explore a new facet of life, and I love how they can inspire personal growth and creativity in unexpected ways.

The books we read often serve as more than just stories; they can reflect our lives, shape our interests, and inspire us to explore new passions. Whether through the emotional connections found in fiction or the practical insights offered by nonfiction, literature has a unique way of resonating with our experiences. Personally, I find that my non-bookish hobbies greatly influence my reading choices, leading me to stories that enhance my understanding of the world around me. Discovering new hobbies through literature has enriched my life in unexpected ways, encouraging creativity and personal growth.

Now, I’d love to hear from you!
How do the books you read connect to your own life? Do you find that they reflect your hobbies or interests, and have you ever discovered a new passion through the stories you’ve explored?

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