Habitual Reader Profiles - Page 2

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	Name: Annette Blair
	City & State: Cumberland, Rhode Island
	Vocation / Avocation: Writer

Why I'm a Habitual Reader:

When I was about ten, I discovered that the pretty little building next to the playground was filled with books. I went inside alone to investigate and left with my first library card (#2036) and the maximum number of books allowed. I'd walked a mile to that playground, and once I discovered the Crompton Free Library, I walked that mile twice a week thereafter, taking the max amount of books each time. They told me which shelves I could choose from and I do believe I read every one. Then I moved to higher shelves. Soon, I discovered the Brontes and Jane Austen and fell into a new world. My love for reading continued into my adult life, during which time I wrote plot ideas on corners of envelopes, index cards, and paper napkins. One day my daughter, to whom I'd read since birth, challenged me to write a book of my own. I accepted and some years later, I began selling my work. I'm now a National Bestseller and The Crompton Free Library is the local Historical Society. My picture hangs on the wall above a display of my novels.

My List of Ten: Comfort Books

1. Jane Eyre
Author: Charlotte Bronte
It's a joy to read. I'm in love with the characters and the happily ever after, especially because it was so hard-won. I've read it a hundred times at least and seen every movie version, and I can tell you exactly where they veer away from the book.

2. Pride and Prejudice
Author: Jane Austen
For the same reason I love Jane Eyre. Historically lush, lovable, but real characters who struggle to find the other half of their souls. Is it any wonder I write romance?

3. Sense and Sensibility
Author: Jane Austen
Charming historical romance.

4. Persuasion
Author: Jane Austen
Gentleness and generosity pays off.

5. Mansfield Park
Author: Jane Austen
Love how the poor relative comes out on top.

6. Emma
Author: Jane Austen
Matchmaker, matchmaker...

7. The Bronte Story
Author: Margaret Lane
I adore anything about the Brontes. I bought this book at the Bronte Parsonage in Haworth.

8. A Book of Ruth
Author: Syrell Rogovin Leahy
Fell in love with it years ago and have re-read it a dozen times since.

9. Sweet Hush
Author: Deborah Smith
Anything by Deborah Smith, actually. Her writing is lush and rich and her characters have hidden depths.

10. Welcome to Temptation
Author: Jennifer Crusie
Funny, well written, complex, multi-layered characters.

Have you read any of these titles? Review one now.

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