The Reading Lessons by Carol Atherton

Over the years, my reading habits have changed greatly. I was once a sucker for any book recommended by a friend, neighbour or colleague. I can laugh as I recall memories, as I duly note the details, swiftly buy or order from the library and hungrily look forward to joining the realms of those who had read it. On occasion, I’d even put aside my ‘current read’ because the recommended book was deemed ‘worthy’ based on the glowing review from the said friend, neighbour or colleague. 

Sadly, I’d hate to recall the number of disappoints this has brought me. Book after book would be a total dud - leaving me feeling robbed of my time, effort and on occasion money - let’s face it, books aren’t always cheap. My patience with ‘recommendations’ was whittled away to the point that I made a stance and vowed - I was no longer open to book recommendations. 

As a result of my experiences, I stopped recommending books to others. I no longer remark ‘you must read …’ or ‘should read’ or even ‘could read’. Now, I tend to remark how I felt about a particular book and simply leave it there. 
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So, when one of my dearest, oldest friends suggested I read ‘The Reading Lessons’ by Carol Atherton, I was slightly dubious. Though given she’s a librarian, with oodles of experience, I trusted her opinion. Thankfully, I was right to. 

The author is an English teacher who explores the impact of the literature that she has taught during her long career. A simple premise which I thoroughly enjoyed, having once been a full-time English teacher and have taught the same curriculum. I’d read all but three of her chosen books so was enthralled to compare her thoughts, feelings and class discussions with my own.

Am I recommending that you read it? Nope. Simply sharing what has brought me delight in recent weeks.

The reading list discussed:

My Last Duchess by Robert Browning
​An Inspector Calls – J.B. Priestley
To Kill A Mockingbird – Harper Lee
Jane Eyre – Charlotte Bronte
Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit – Jeanette Winterton
Great Expectations – Charles Dickens
A Kestrel For A Knave – Barry Hines*
Noughts & Crosses – Malorie Blackman
Lord Of The Flies – William Golding
Coram Boy – Jamila Gavin
Of Mice And Men – John Steinbeck
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings – Maya Angelou
Macbeth – William Shakespeare
Death Of A Salesman – Arthur Miller*
The History Boys – Alan Bennett*  
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 * The three books I hadn’t previously read but may seek out in the future. 

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