I found this tag on a blog created by Reading Through The Nights  who found the tag on thriceread before that… I thought it was a good way to get to know people as readers –without going into specific details about a book. So here goes…

1. Choose one word that would describe you as a reader.

Eclectic. I read every genre, every sub-genre and sub-sub-genre. It’s words that I love, and when there is a character, plot or setting that speaks to me, whether fiction or non-fiction, it goes to my To-Be-Read (TBR) list.

2. What is the first book that made you fall in love with reading?

As a child, there was a children’s book series in my local library that had beautiful, colorful book covers and had a theme across each edition. But sadly, it was so long ago, I cannot remember the author or series name. Though I can picture it on the shelves and vividly recall the feeling I had looking at them. Going to the library every week that summer, picking out a new book for the summer reading competition, encouraged my love of reading. Since then, I’d say there are a number of books that show me why I love reading, but most recently that pleasure falls to Kate Morton’s historical fiction novels.

3. Hardcover or paperback?

In the last year, I’ve grown accustomed to electronic reads through the NetGalley or other ARC programs. I tend to buy paperbacks because they are less expensive and I am able to purchase more; however, I prefer the feel of a hardback cover to everything else.

4. How has reading shaped your identity?

I’m a shy person. I also don’t learn well from other people. I have always learned (lessons, knowledge, information, etc.) by reading about it on my own. When you can search the internet to find articles and blogs on topics you love, or pickup a book with a story that speaks to you, the world is at your finger tips. I will never get to see or do everything on my so-called bucket list; however, through reading, I can get close enough to quench my thirst, even just a little. Books have made me confident and able to learn without feeling unprotected and reachable when I crave independence and solitude.

5. What book do you read when you want to be comforted?

A cozy mystery series full of lovable and kooky characters who are hiding secrets.

6. Who influenced you to be a reader?

I wish I could point to a single person or entity, but there is none. I have no great story to tell about the biggest influence in my life in this area. Words in books have just simply “always spoken to me.” And I’m not ashamed to admit that on any given day, I’d be comfortable stating I need books more than I need people.

7. Describe your dream reading lounge.

Absolute quiet. Not any other sound. Not too bright, not to dark. Plenty of champagne to drink for hours, but the kind that won’t ever make you drunk. A comfortable chair, near a window, overlooking mountains. Around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Comfy blanket thrown over me. Legs lifted up on an ottoman. Green plants around the room. Nothing on the walls but grey, brown, black and white colors. No door in or out… entry would be through an elevator that opens directly to the room, but only ever reachable by me. Ryder by my side.

8. What book changed the way you saw the world?

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

9. What defines your life a reader?

Freedom. Flexibility. Fortune.

I am free to read whatever I want. But I know that not everyone else is.

My mind has the flexibility to read every genre and find books I love. So many readers stick within a comfort zone and miss out on things that could change their world forever.

I am able to buy the books I love, though not everyone has that fortune. But I also am fortunate to be able to write, as well as read. And I want to bring that fortune to others in my own stories and books.

I could discuss reading forever and under any circumstance. It is my life. It is where Jay meets happiness.

10. What are your favorite quotes?

• “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.” Mark Twain
• “A life well lived is a life full of decisions.” (Guess!)

TAG: To no one specific… consider yourself tagged if you wanna be… and NOT if you don’t wanna be.