[steko]

Originally Posted by kmoney

I think the part in bold is a key point. I'll read a book on a particular topic and then move on to something else. I don't engage the topic I just read about and I can't retain it. But if you focus on a topic consistently for a while and have conversation about it, it can really help cement it in the mind. I think part of my problem is a lack of patience.

Yes...usage is the key to retention.

As far as marking books go. Books are my tools and not something to look pretty on a shelf. I use a ruler when I underline and always use a 'Bic' pen, black. I use different shades of underlining by lightly underlining, heavy underlining, or extra-heavy by thickening the lines. I try to keep it very neat for my own benefit. I also use margin brackets [ ] on particularly important points, sometimes I write page number references in the margin to other places in the book and sometimes references to pages in other books.

The 'Bic' pen doesn't bleed through too bad, but the little ball bearing tends to wear on the ruler or straight edge and results in a leaky pen over time. I keep a paper towel or tissue handy to wipe the pen and the ruler frequently to avoid smears.

I use the 'Bic' in my Bibles, which have very thin pages. You gotta' be careful there or it will bleed through.


'Sharpies' and such are not satisfactory to me for underlining.

Sometimes I use a pencil to underline, so I can erase, if needed.

A No. 1 pencil is soft and leaves a darker line with less pressure.

[Arthur Brain]

Originally Posted by kmoney

So you're the reason the bunny fiction genre stays alive.

Are you denying that 'Watership Down' is a classic in literature?

[Psalmist]

I agree, great question.

I read very little fiction. Simply because there wasn't much that I'm drawn to. I have read the Narnia series, interesting, and those I liked, however when I do read fiction it is simple stories that I can share with our grand kids and great grand kids.

I like to read biographies, and literary works and poetry, some history.

I read Bible commentaries most on the Psalms; some sermons by the long since dead ministers, but can be difficult to read straight through.

My favorite read is John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" which I read once a year.

I do like reading, for me it's quieting, and helps my memory to stay healthy, at least I think it does.

When I do find a new read, I'll look a couple of reviews, then check the out read the cover sleeve information, the forward and acknowledgement if there is one.

First read is straight through, the second read is to write in a companion notebook comments on what I've read and noting the page numbers and some of my own reader comments.

If it a book that especially like I'll by a second copy to mark in and highlight still using my notebook method. It's the same way with paper backs if the hardbound book is too expensive, and if the paper back is exceptional I'll buy two copies, yes one I can markup and highlight.