Ramblings of an Incurable Book Addict

For as long as I can remember I have been head over heels in love with books and the joy of reading.

Some of my earliest memories involve books.  As a child I constantly had my nose buried between the pages of a much loved story - Enid Blyton, Treasure Island, Nancy Drew and my all-time childhood favourite Marryat's The Children of the New Forest, amongst many others.  I would spend hours going through and re-arranging my bookcase - read and still to read, alphabetical and even size order...yes, I have always been a little obsessive.  I would pick something then perch on my bedroom window-sill, which was just wide enough to enable me to lurk behind my curtains, and off I would be, into the next adventure.

Of course, trips to our local library were a highlight for me.  Usually with one of my grandparents.  With my Grandma I had to race to keep up with her as the thought of slowing down really had not occurred to her despite being in her mid-seventies at this point, but once within the library walls I was allowed to spend as long as I liked choosing my books.  My Grandad was more methodical but just as cool, especially with his quirky way of choosing a book - it had to be alphabetical which meant usually Ellery Queen when it came time for a Q.  Again I was never rushed and it was great being there with the beautiful wooden floors, everywhere smelling of polish, the large desk by the doors with the drawers full of cards and the stamp in the books which meant they were mine, even if just for a little while.

As an a teenager and adult, reading has helped me through many dark points in my life - escapism at its best.  It is a relief, sometimes, to travel to other worlds or live another's life with them through an author's eyes and words, even if only for a moment.  Books have on occasion, quite literally, kept me sane.  As I'm sure they have for you too.

I have made some good friends through my passion both in libraries and a small book group I belong to.  Unfortunately, due to a move to the beautiful Fenland area, I can no longer attend the discussions which has left me feeling a little lost.  Though I can still talk about my latest reading discoveries with those close to me - this is enjoyable too - it is not quite enough.
Which brings me to the point of this blog - 'Finallly!' I hear you cry....I did say this was a ramble..
I read so many books in so many different genres that I have decided to share my thoughts and attempt to write some reviews using this slightly scary world of the blog.  Please bear with me as I am a complete beginner.
I intend to include reviews, information on author and book-related events in our area and anything else I can think of that is vaguely relevant.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.  I shall follow with my first review very soon.

Best Wishes
Karen