Good, Better, Best Why I Read the Books I Do

Why do I read?

Truth be told, I'm a word addict. Anything that looks like a language I might be able to decipher I will read. If it's lying there, uncovered, it's as tempting as a huge slice of chocolate cake dumped on my plate after dinner. How am I supposed to say no?

There might be words I avoid reading. Like any good dieter I know my weakness, and I don't allow certain reading material in my home because I know that, if it's there, I will read.

From time to time I stumble upon brand new books. Gifts, prizes, or random orphans from family trips and charity events I bring these books home, give into temptation, and read with wanton abandon. You'll see me post about various titles through the year. I have my own code, so to speak. My own way of rating every book. Here it is:


Forgettable: The worst thing that can be said about a book is that it is forgettable. This is the book that I start reading with every good intention, put down because RL interferes, and I forget to pick it up again. The book was so uninspiring that I simply forget I'm reading it. Ouch.



Okay: These are the books that I can read, enjoy while I read, but I walk away from. They aren't bad books, they just aren't special. I can probably remember the main plot points, possibly the main characters name, but this isn't a book I'll reread or give to friends.
Example: Siddhartha



Pretty good: When I finish a book and say, "That was pretty good," it's really a high compliment. It means I might reread this book if I'm in the right mood. I might recommend this book to a friend who I think will enjoy the plot.
Example: Most of Shakespeare


Really Great: This is a fantastic book that I can pick up and enjoy at any time. I don't have to be in the right mood or hunting for a certain flavor of book, this piece satisfies every time I open it.
Example: Coredlia's Honor by Louis McMaster Bujold


The Best: These are the books that seduce me from across the room. If I see them lying around I'll stop what I'm doing to read. I probably have most of this book memorized. I know every detail of the main character's life and know the birthdays of all the minor characters. Walking away from the book, I can remember details. I think about the book. I laugh at the book's jokes even if I haven't read the line in months. I will try to force this book on innocent passers-by because they need to love it too.
Example: Guards! Guards! by Terry Pratchett

How do you rate books?