The seasons of a life

There’s Too Much To Read (1970)

Why do these profs assign so many readings?  Sociology, Psychology, Literature.  My fingers are so tired of turning pages.

There’s No Time To Read (1979)

I’m teaching at Lethbridge Community College.  I need to prepare for classes.  When I’m not working hard, I need to relax, not dive into pages.

Non-Fiction Books About Cycling (2000)

I’m enthralled with professional cycling in Europe.  I devour books about famous riders, the Tour de France, the history of the sport.

There’s A Novel … (2005)

I’m staying at the home of my in-laws Lance and Nona, with a view of the Canadian Rockies out their living room window.

I see Nona pouring over a fat book at the kitchen counter.  It’s Under The Dome, Stephen King’s latest novel.  Inside my head I hear “Not for me … all that horror.  I want to sleep at night.”

Up early the next morning, I spot the hardcover sitting on the counter.  I open it.  I read the first ten pages.  My eyes open wide.  I’m hooked!  (How can this be?)

Within The Mind Of Mr. King (2009-2020)

Twenty King novels pass through my fingers and mind.  Oh, the characters that he creates!  I love them.

Reading To Jody As Death Approaches (2014)

She loved Christine, Stephen’s story about a car that repairs itself … and kills people.

Enough! (2021)

I don’t want to read anymore.  I want to lighten my life.  I give away all my books.

My Friend Is An Author (early 2024)

I enjoy talking to my friend Michelle in Izy Coffee.  She mentions writing mystery novels with some guy in the USA.  That’s nice.

I Wonder What Her Stories Are Like (later 2024)

We talk.  The hero of all four books is Judas Iscariot.  He’s immortal.  His first adventure is in London, as he tries to find out who Jack the Ripper is.

Amazon (three weeks ago)

I’m buying Murder in Whitechapel, Michelle’s first book.  And after it arrives … I’m on the couch, page-turning into the mystery.  The writing is really good!  I’m reading!

I Remember You, Stephen (ten days ago)

You contributed to my life for years.  I wonder if that may include 2024.  I order your latest novel Holly.

Hooked Again (now)

I just finished Holly.  It’s been a detective adventure of love and serial killers.  Mr. King has returned to my heart … along with stories on the page.

Welcome home, Bruce