Oh the places you’ll go.

Why do you read books? To learn, to be distracted to be entertained? To relax or be be lulled to sleep? I like to fall asleep reading, but I always go back and read what I missed (if that makes sense?). But this week I have found myself wondering what prompts you to crack a paperback, lovingly open. hardback, reach for a reader or put in your earbuds?

Believe it or not, I prefer different formats for different reading. Is that weird? If so, I am unapologetic.

There’s the polarizing e-reader. It seems readers love them, or they’re purists who decry this modern way to pick up a book that is a blight on the publishing landscape. I understand this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I also see the utility. I have always fallen asleep reading, since I was a child and would sneak a flashlight into my room to read after my folks said “lights out.” Now as an adult, I don’t have that limit, but my husband doesn’t find it easy to sleep with the light on, or even with just a book light in use. My iPad has the Kindle app and that’s been brilliant. I can lower the light setting and use a black screen and her barely knows.

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Currently reading: Nothing But Air by Susan May Warren and Tari Faris

I am, of course, a big lover of paperbacks. I have the true heart of a fiction junkie and as such, the paperback will always be my number one weapon of choice. They are light, pretty, they smell like books (I am weird, aren’t I?) and just feel great in your hand. My youngest and I comment to London quite often and I love to bring a paperback on the train. I also love to relax in our double papasan and sip tea by the fire with a good book. Bliss. The other thing I love is that I have shelves of the beauties. All lined up alphabetically by author and then by publishing date.

Currently reading: Girl Lost by Kate Angelo

I teach a weekly Bible study with officer cadets at the British equivalent of West Point, The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. My people keep me on my toes. This role requires I am well educated on the topics we discuss and I love studying the Word. While a lot of my textbooks are paperback, I do love that the hardbacks feel so solid – almost more dependable.

Currently studying: The Weirsbe Bible Commentary (great for lesson prep)

And finally, turn it up. I love audio books done well. My first career was as a radio news journalist and presenter. I am fascinated by how we write for the ear or eye. And interestingly, not all books translate across well. However, there are a couple of standout voice artists that make me very happy. Stephanie Cozart voiced Crystal Caudill’s first series and did an excellent job. Therese Plummer is the voice of Hope Harbor – the amazing series by Irene Hannon, set on the Oregon coast (hence the featured photo) and now into double figures, so popular is his fictional town and its residents. And then there’s Christopher Asherman who voices Luke from Pepper Basham’s series set in Skymar. He’s outstanding. The thing with audiobooks is they keep me company mowing, driving and walking. It means I have stories wherever I go. Happy happy days.

Currently listening: When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard

Now it’s over to you – what are your favorite bookish mediums AND WHY?

Debb Hackett is a speaker, broadcaster and an award winning writer. Debb writes contemporary romance and has also authored a Bible study for military wives. Married to an RAF Test pilot for almost 25 years, Debb is mom to two teenage girls and resides in England. She is a die hard packers fan, loves to ski and play her guitar and bake. She’s also one of the Three Musketeers who run Blue Ridge Reader Connections. You can learn more at her BRRC profile page and she’d be giddy if you signed up for her newsletter.

What's your favorite literary medium - paper, hard, e or audiobook? Share on X