Although I’m drawn to bookstores like a moth to a flame, I’ve never considered myself to be much of a reader. My bookshelves are FULL of unread books, mainly because I enjoy the act of buying new books, more than finishing them… I always start with the best intentions, really I do! Sadly, somewhere in the first 50 pages I lose interest, get distracted, and give up finishing the book completely. I have done this the majority of my life, and until recently, I would never consider myself a reader.

That all changed a few months ago, when I downloaded my first audiobook! Thinking I might actually be able to finish a book if, like a 5 year old, it was read to me! ;) I was skeptical at first, but quickly the narrators voice drew me into the story, and was spending a few hours laying in bed each night, listening to one book after another. There is something very wonderful about storytelling, the way each characters voice brings the plot to life, and your imagination is left to fill in the blanks. This small glimpse is what I considered “readers” to enjoy on a regular basis, and I was hooked! I’ve read more books in the last 4 months, than I have in the last few years combined.

I now judge a book, not on its cover, but how it makes me feel. At the completion of a book, if the author makes me never want story to end, then it was the perfect book!! With reading (or listening), I feel much more invested in the characters, compared to movies or even TV shows, so when they end, I still want to know what happens! These are some of my favorite stories so far, each left me wanting more.

1. The Art of Racing in The Rain by Garth Stein had me in tears by the first chapter. The entire story is told from the perspective of Enzo, a dog with a philosopher’s soul, who tries to bring his human family back together. After reading this book, I will never look at a dog the same way again. By far one of the most unique and wonderful stories I’ve ever heard!

2. The Help by Kathryn Stockett takes place in Mississippi during the early 1960’s, and is told from the perspective of three different women. One young white woman takes interest in the stories of American American maids working in white families’ homes. Their stories about mistreatment, abuse and heartbreaks help shape the book into a heartwarming story that is hard to put down.

3. Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is the story of 93-year-old Jacob’s incredible life and adventures with the Benzini Brothers circus. The story unfolds in a way that is emotionally wrenching, thrilling and will hold your attention until the end! The movie verison comes out tomorrow and I couldn’t help but picture the main character Jacob, as Robert Pattinson!

4. The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. I heard stories of people getting so sucked into this trilogy, that they finished all three books in less than a week! This story will seriously leave you at the edge of your seat with its life-or-death plot. Just make sure you start it when you have some extra time on your hands!

Audiobooks become an unexpected new hobby, and I think for the first time in my life, I might actually be a reader. ;) So what else should I read? I’d love your suggestions!!