Ursina's Shelf - Reading hibernation update

Issue 97

Dear readers,

I’m writing today with an update on my reading hibernation and a reflection on my Q1 book-buying ban.

I knew the start of this year would be busy, but I underestimated just how much my mind space would be occupied. I’m glad I had already decided to ease up on my usual reading habits and expectations.

Here’s what that looked like:

• NO READING TARGETS – Not on Goodreads, and not even my usual personal stretch goal.

• JOURNALING INSTEAD OF APP TRACKING – Instead of chasing the quick hit of rating a book on an app, I took time to jot down a few sentences about each book I read. I noted whether I listened to it, read a physical copy or used my Kindle, and fun details like whether the book was lent or gifted to me.

• NO NEW BOOKS – Instead of buying new books, I focused on the ones I already owned. A fun trick was decluttering my nightstand and dedicating a shelf to these books, making them feel more inviting and less overwhelming.

So, how did it go?

Let’s start with the book-buying ban—overall, it went well, with a few exceptions. I bought Percival Everett’s James on audio for book club (via Libro.fm), a poetry collection by Johnny Cash at Libreria in London (which I mentioned in my last issue on poetry), and a Bangkok guidebook for our vacation from the wonderful Stanfords (more on them in this past issue). Oh, and, Onyx Storm—but we’ll get to that.

As for my reading itself, a few books felt overhyped, including Coco Mellors’ Blue Sisters and Rebecca Yarros’ Onyx Storm (yes, breaking the book ban, I know!). But I’ve found more joy in books that either had their moment a while ago or never got caught up in the hype cycle.

Beyond my shelves and wallet benefiting from this shift, the real win has been thinking less about my reading, which has freed up space for more learning:

• WIKIPEDIA RABBIT HOLES – I’ve enjoyed deep dives into random topics, like how airport runways are named or the influence of the Manesse family on Zurich’s history.

• COMFORT READS – I’ve rediscovered fantasy, including Cassandra Clare’s Mortal Instruments series. Generally, a lot of fantasy lately.

• FRENCH – I’ve been re-engaging with the language, which I even got to use with new friends at dog school! (If you're looking for language resources, check out the bottom of this post.)

I’m loving this chiller reader era and plan to keep it going—though the book ban will be relaxed. This also means I’ll be more flexible with this newsletter’s schedule.

Thanks for sticking with me during this phase. As always, I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading, enjoying, or new genres you think I should try!

French & other language learning resources

For anyone looking to hone their foreign language skills, here’s what I’ve been using for French:

• Duolingo Podcast – Available for Spanish and French, these podcasts feature an English-speaking host interacting with guests who speak in intermediate-level French or Spanish (link). Thanks to Briana for this tip!

• Linguno – A free platform with flashcard-style exercises to practice vocabulary, verbs, and more in multiple languages (link). Thanks to Olivia for the recommendation!

• Passerelles – A French podcast where a wonderfully soothing host discusses various life topics in simple French (link). Thanks to Julie for sharing this gem!

Currently reading: Books and Islands in Ojibwe Country by Louise Erdrich, a book I bought at Hatchards during my trip to London with my mom last fall (a recap of that bookish trip here).

Have a great weekend and happy reading!

---

If you enjoy this newsletter, subscribe (for free) to get it in your inbox regularly. Other ways to support this newsletter include engaging with a comment or like and telling a friend or family member about it. Many thanks!