“If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that.”
― Stephen King
I have heard this said over and over by many different folks. Do you think it’s true? I do. The times in my life when I haven’t made the time to read, I also haven’t been very productive with my writing.
Right now I am reading Ken Follett’s marvelous book, The Pillars of the Earth, because a good friend nagged me sufficiently. Historical fiction is not my go to reading preference.
But this book is thoroughly engaging and it’s sparking my creativity in positive ways.
What are you reading right now? And why?
Michael Ehret, for Writing on the Fine Line
Writing On The Fine Line 
Right now, for pleasure I’m reading Fifth Man by Randy Ingermanson and John Olson.
Why? Because Science Fiction has always been one of my favorite genres and because these two tell an exciting story.
Science Fiction is not the genre I write in (yet) so it is a clean, head-clearing break for me but I’m still learning the craft as I read it.
By the way, Michael, Ken Follett is one of may favorite authors. I’m glad you’re enjoying his book.
Henry, thanks for stopping by! Randy and John, individually write great books. I’ve never read their co-written ones (thought I do have them). I hope Randy comes out with something new–and soon! His “time travel back into biblical times” books are among my favorites ever.
I can’t think of a writer I know who isn’t an avid reader. It’s how I learned to write. The hard part now is turning off my inner editor when I read. It takes a great story to do that. There are lots of good ones out there, but not that many great ones.
Know what you mean. I’ve gotten to the point where, if the writing, story, something, isn’t exceptional I set it aside and move on. Life’s too short!
I read a few books at a time, each in different rooms. Henning Mankell because a paragraph can never be too short. Elizabeth George because a paragraph can never be too long. Michael Dibdin because Italy should always be close. Isabelle Allende because ghosts should always be real and finally Ian Fleming because some books should fit in your pocket!
Love it Will! Thanks for stopping by.
I actually just picked up Pillars of the Earth at the library because it was recommended by a friend. Just the size alone excited me (I love long books). In addition to that I’m reading The Brotherhood by Jerry Jenkins, and a couple of nonfiction titles. I agree reading is imperative to a healthy writing life. Even terrible books serve a purpose: they are a guide for what not to do. Keep us updated on your impression of Follett’s book. I’m interested in your overall opinion.
Tanara, so far I am about halfway through and I think it is one of the best written books I’ve ever read. But, for me, it is at times very slow–still the writing always shines and makes it worthwhile.
Michael,
Just got Brandilyn’s new book and can’t wait to start reading. I’m also reading some books on Islam and Christianity for my WIP. And, yes, I enjoy reading Stephen King too. His book on writing is fantastic.
Brandilyn writes good scary stuff …