It's Time to Meet James

The Stories of My Life: James PattersonAs you know, I've had trouble finding the time and the bandwidth to read. I just don't find blocks of time where reading can happen, so long, complicated stories feel disjointed. In fact, I am STILL listening to The Third Mrs. Galway, if that gives you any indication of what my reading life has been like. That's why I am so happy that my neighbor and friend, Marlene, suggested this book to me. Here's why:
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1. The chapters are short - Usually 2 pages.
2. Each chapter is self contained - ie, I don't have to remember what was said the last time I picked up the book to understand what is going on now. It is like a series of short stories.
3. James Patterson writes in easy-to-read sentences - He doesn't feel the need to write in complex sentences using enormous words.
4. He is a great storyteller - He is down-to-earth, relatable, and funny

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I loved being able to read again and enjoyed nearly every page of the book. For me, some places were quite poignant - even difficult. His first real love died of brain cancer. He talked about that time in his life and how he couldn't write for over a year. He explained how dark everything was. He said he enjoyed crying during that time because it was "the relief of grieving, of being able to feel something, even intense sadness." I understood completely. I cried for him. And for me. And for everyone who has ever lost someone or knew they were losing someone they loved to a horrible disease.
I also learned quite a bit about James and how he writes. We are very different but also very much the same. He outlines - heavily. I never do. He would tell me to start. Me, being me, would refuse. Of course, he is a best-selling author, so maybe I should consider listening! However, he has characters that live in his brain - just like me. He enjoys research - just like me. He doesn't follow the conventional wisdom of sticking to one genre, choosing instead to write mystery, children's books, and nonfiction among others. I, too, want to write children's, nonfiction, and even rom-com. I felt a kinship with him despite our lives and experiences being completely different.
I believe that even if you don't read James Patterson books or aren't a writer that you would enjoy getting to know him. He is a master at storytelling, and his tales will take you on a journey, even if only for a moment or two. I highly recommend this book. Enjoy!

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