When I’m out and about, I sometimes will spot someone (a complete stranger) reading a book and I cannot, for the life of me, resist asking “What are you reading?”
Now sometimes, I’ll get a look and the stranger will close the book and walk away (rather swiftly, I might add), but in most cases, the opposite is true. The reader will generally close the book (with his or her finger marking their place) and show me the cover and there begins a discussion on favorite authors and genres. Right there. In the middle of the sidewalk or standing in line at Starbucks or the grocery (yes, I do spend a lot of time at the grocery store or so it seems) or waiting for an elevator. Me and a complete stranger although anyone who loves to read, especially authors I enjoy, is never really a stranger…just someone I haven’t met yet.
I love when this happens. I always feel like I’ve made a new friend, one who appreciates the writings of others and the pleasures found deep within the pages of a novel as much as I do. And it’s the perfect opportunity to let this reader know about other authors she/he might like and I never hesitate to name several (I’ve even told them about myself. I know! Can you believe that?) I’ve found new authors because of this as well.
So next time you’re out and about and some woman approaches you with a big smile and asks “What are you reading?”, it might be me. Don’t close your book and walk away. Stay for a minute. We’ll chat and share our love of reading.
As always, happy reading!
Marie
