My Bookish Resolutions (2023)

My Bookish Resolutions (2023)

In 2023, I set five specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) book-related goals. I aimed to read all 36 unread books on my shelf, building on my success of reading 34 books in 2022. Second, I planned to complete the Wingbound trilogy by Heather Trim, with Wingspan slated for January. Third, I intended to create a cozy reading space by furnishing my living room, following a recent move. Fourth, I sought to acquire a new bookshelf to complement my desired mid-century modern or industrial-themed decor, repurposing the old one for bathroom storage. Lastly, I aspired to read a 2023 release early in the year, specifically highlighting 'Yellowface' by R.F. Kuang, and planned to review it promptly.

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I Visited The Full Circle Bookstore In Oklahoma City

I Visited The Full Circle Bookstore In Oklahoma City

I took my bestie on a bookish, friend date to the Full Circle Bookstore in OKC…

And we loved it.

Yeah, we’re hitting the ground running in Reader Life this week, because I just cannot wait to tell you all about it.

Neither me nor my best friend Allie have ever been to Full Circle before and needless to say, we a first-time FC converts, if there is such a thing. When we rolled up to the shop at the bottom of the 50 Penn Place building, we were greeted with a quaint little storefront, painted mint green and black with chalkboard signs and jazzy music playing softly from an outdoor speaker. We were already so excited, and we hadn’t even entered the building.

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How I Got Started Reading When I Hated It

How I Got Started Reading When I Hated It

It might be surprising to learn that a published author, creative writer, and professional editor used to hate reading books. The truth is I wasn’t always an avid reader. To fully understand how my love for books, and more importantly—my love for stories has grown over the years, I have to back up to a time before I appreciated books.

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Immersion Reading: Audiobooks and Ambiance
Books and Reading Payton Hayes Books and Reading Payton Hayes

Immersion Reading: Audiobooks and Ambiance

Audiobooks aren’t really books. Or are they? While many argue that listening to an audiobook doesn’t really compare to reading a book, there’s something to be said about immersion reading -or reading text while listening to an audiobook simultaneously. By using two of the five senses, readers gain a richer reading experience and find it easier to get into the story.

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