By Jennifer Chastain @JenniferCwrites

The last time I blogged about my reading life, I talked about the library in my small town. It was my place of refuge. Books opened doors for me and expanded my understanding of the world, relationships, and love.

During the summers, that huge, cavernous building was cool on a hot summer day. After filling my bicycle basket with books, I’d return home and grab one of those books and start reading inside the house.

Mom would eventually chase me outside, say it’s a beautiful day, and tell me to get some fresh air. But I always had a book with me and one of my favorite spots to read was under the huge maple tree that straddled our property line. That tree had to be over a hundred years old at that time in the 1970s. In between the gnarled roots, I found the perfect spot to read as I nestled against the trunk. I spent many hours outside, reading to my heart’s content. Living in a small dairy-farming community, I thought my life was dull. But when I opened the cover of a book, I was transported to different places and times.

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Fast forward to the present day. I still love to read but now it’s usually in my recliner after a long day at work. During the summer, I love light, carefree, fun stories, escaping to a different exotic location with every new book I pick up. Reality, at times, is difficult enough without having to slog through pages and pages of fictional characters experiencing high drama or angst.

As an author, I read – a LOT!

Not only is reading a wonderful escape, it also helps you improve as an author. Even if the story isn’t your preferred genre, you can always learn from others. Do you enjoy a light and flirty beach-themed story? Go for it! Are thrillers more your cup of tea? Then be prepared to be scared. Or hunker down with a good detective story. Take your pick, the choices are endless! So, grab a good book (or two or three) and your favorite summer beverage, pull up a comfy chair or relax in your favorite shady spot and read. Read what makes your heart happy. Think of reading as mining for nuggets of inspiration for your next story.