In light of the ongoing debates on diversity in the book blogosphere, in the book tube community and on bookstagram, Jeann from Happy Indulgence thought it important to talk about when “diversity” isn’t actually diverse. Many of us know that a lot more can be done in YA literature to represent diverse voices.

The beauty of an unread library shouldn’t be undermined. Of course, there is pride in a collection of which every page has been read. However, overflowing stacks of books shouldn’t be a source of guilt. Books open up a world of possibilities and that is something to embrace.

Once upon a time, not so long ago, I declared that reading is social. I don’t think it’s possible to become untethered. Neither do I wish to become unplugged from the social aspects of reading. However, at times I do feel somewhat conflicted about it. Once in a while pre-publication hype wears me out. That’s why part of me yearns to read off the radar (again).

It was a sad realisation to come to that I no longer like Insurgent. I read it for the very first time in August 2013. Then I picked it up for a re-read in November 2015. The book is the same as it was before. The story hasn’t changed. The words haven’t changed. I’m the same person but I’m the paradox that changed. Consequently, my perception of things has shifted.

Authorship has a way of affecting readers. Even if all we know is the author’s name and nothing more, the name matters.

Take one of my favourite authors, Jessica Martinez. I adored her first three contemporary books. They were stylistically straight to to the point and I liked her approach to characters and setting. Then she brought out a mystery novel. I absolutely want to read it but only because she wrote it. The synopsis alone wasn’t entirely convincing to me. In any case, I bought the Kindle edition of Kiss Kill Vanish and am curious if I’ll like it just as much as her other books.