As soon as I decided to choose a word of the year, I knew what it had to be: love. Love has been on my mind a lot recently, and I’d like to keep it there all year long, to try to live every day with as much love as I can. How’s that for a resolution?
I thought it would be fun to make a few reading resolutions this year, to shake things up a little here at Shelf Elf. I know that they have to be fun ones though, or else they won’t happen. Here’s what I’m thinking:
- Read 1 grown up nonfiction book a month. This is very ambitious for me. I am embarrassed at the absence of nonfiction in my life. (Or at least a really long article from a smart magazine. I’m allowed a max of 4 articles, ‘kay?) A girl has to stay brainy.
- Reread at least one favourite book. I always say I will, and I almost never do.
- Find a new adult mystery series that is addictive and happy-making.
- Read 2 classics that have been on my list for a while.
- Read a few books recommended by my fella that I wouldn’t normally pick up otherwise. He has good taste, and is a more wide-ranging reader than I am, so I should take advantage of that.
I’m already a few days late, so I’d better get a move on, right? I’m thinking I’ll start with #1, and I can’t think of a better book than this:
(Perhaps I need a sweet sparkly “love” sign, to remind me of my word of the year? If I do, I’ll get one here, from Melinda. She makes adorable banners. We got one for our wedding).
Shelf Elf: read, write, rave. 
I’ve been seeing a lot of “word of the year” posts. I still haven’t picked my own but I think “Love” is a very good choice.
As to a mystery series: There are only three or four books right now but might I suggest Cassandra Chan’s Gibbons and Bethancourt books starting with THE YOUNG WIDOW? It’s one of my favorite mysteries.