Reading Patterns in Journal Writing

I’ve been keeping a reading journal for several years now. Not only is it handy for finding the title of a book you’ve read, or the author’s name, but reading through can give you insight into yourself. Last year I decided to reread through the lists of books I’ve read in my reading journal. I hadn’t read with the intention of seeing a pattern, but after only a short time, I did. Most of the books I’ve really enjoyed have been coming of age type stories. This helped me understand why the stories I’ve written often include this element.

Of course, I enjoy other books, but this was one theme recurring throughout my reading history. I spent some time writing in my journal about this and realised I feel I have something to share with young people facing the momentous changes that make up their daily lives. Perhaps writing my stories will help someone. I felt empowered to discover this about myself.

What about you? What themes do you tend to enjoy in novels? Is this theme somehow reflected in your own life? I’ve used my reading journal only as an example. Try looking for patterns in your regular journal on rereading. You just might be surprised what you see & learn about yourself.

Heather
Photo used with permission from Newscom