Less is More: 6 Years of Book Blogging

Six years ago today, I posted my first book review here at GReads!  Never did I anticipate that I'd still be here, in my little corner of the internet, talking about books all these years later.  I've read some amazing things; stories that have made me laugh, cry, and connect on such a personal level.  Expressing my thoughts and feelings on the books I read is a constant in my world, and one I hope that will never change.  Though I haven't been as active as I used to be, I'm still sharing my voice in this community, for whoever wants to listen.  Sometimes less can be more.  I'm a firm believer that life should be about quality, not always quantity.

In 6 years of book blogging I've learned... to read a little less, and really value the stories that I take the time to read.  My reading time is precious and I'd much rather spend those hours with something that entertains me, consumes me, makes me laugh, or fall in love.  If I'm not feeling a certain book, it's okay to put it aside.

In 6 years of book blogging I've learned... to engage less when drama soars high. It's important to have a voice, and to share those opinions when you think they matter.  But I've also learned that taking a step back, evaluating my thoughts, and thinking before I speak (or type, text, etc.) may be a better option than adding to the chaos.

In 6 years of book blogging I've learned... less content with more personal thoughtfulness holds increasingly more impact on readers than something that is being written, or posted, just to be written, or posted.  I'd much rather write a sincere book review, or share a personal list few and far between, than produce words that hold no value in my reading world.

In 6 years of book blogging I've learned... worry less about the latest & greatest book hype, and focus more on the beautiful words I have the pleasure of reading in front of me now.  Y'all, I've had the opportunity to read some really amazing things in these six years.  It still takes my breath away that I had the chance to experience these author's gifts and talents in the form of words.  THIS is what it's all about.

To celebrate these past six years, I am offering a giveaway, featuring my most favorite books from the last six years.  Now, this was insanely difficult to narrow down.  So, I decided to go back & check out my end of year surveys in order to decide which books would be part of the giveaway.  One lucky winner will have the chance to choose one book from the following list.  This opportunity is open to international readers, but please make sure book depository ships to you!

The One That Got Away by Bethany Chase

Breakfast Served Anytime by Sarah Combs

Golden by Jessi Kirby

Attachments by Rainbow Rowell

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

Where Things Comes Back by John Corey Whaley

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