I'm Happy Reading

I’m happy to report that while I’ve been on a pure chick lit book diet for a while I decided to read something of substance and I’m truly enjoying it. I’ve been reading, very slow because of a lack of free time, the Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs. (If you haven’t read my previous blog the book is about the author living by all the rules in the Bible for a full year.) Now generally speaking I am a strict follower of the adage that you never talk about religion in public conversation. It’s such a sensitive subject and you can easily offend people with your views or the slightest off handed comment. However I think the way this author has designed his book has been very smart. He does not make fun of the Bible in any way, even the really crazy rules like: If you are in a fistfight with another man, and his wife grabs your private parts, you "shall cut off her hand." (Deuteronomy 25:11-12). He tries to find the meaning behind everything and explain its origins.

This book appeals to me because not only is it written in an entertaining style but it talks about history, different traditions and different points of view. I feel like I learn something new in each entry. I’ve gone back to my habit in high school of highlighting things that I find interesting and might want to find again easily. (Apologies to anyone how may borrow my copy after this since it’s now covered in marker.) I’ve enjoyed reading something that has made me question how I look at religion, society, and my own actions and values. I’m excited to recommend it to other.

Here is a video interview with A.J. Jacobs about his project for those of you who are visual people.
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/21186291#21189816