Can you write and take time to read...

[carole gill]

stuff that isn't research? I'm sitting here today writing like mad and I have some great (crime) novels to read. I find I feel reluctant to put the writing to the side however. And yes, I know I'm a total nutcase--when I take a break it's rarely a break as such. I know I need to read, but I hate to take the time! Please go easy on me!

[carole gill]

you're correct of course. a new discipline is about to be entered in my life. honest!

[Dana King]

You gotta read. I think at least as much time should be spend reading as writing, and I spend quite a bit of time writing. Aside from keeping the batteries charged, you can never tell when you're going to come across something (a turn of phrase, piece of plot, a caper) that might help with somethng you're currently dissatisfied about in your current project.

And, it's just fun. You deserve a break once in a while.

[carole gill]

thank you. i know you're right. I just have to do it. going to switch over to a novel "just as soon as I finish this bit...! swear to God!

[Christa M. Miller]

I used to feel the same way. I have two young children and make money freelancing, so when I wasn't taking care of the boys, I was writing - if not freelance, then fiction. Budget was a concern (part of why I worked so much). The only reading I did was to my older boy at night, and that was hardly stimulating! Eventually I got a library card and checked a few books out. I'd forgotten how very much I love reading! And it's so important for the kids, too, to see me doing it. So now I make it a priority - even though I do have to take time out of writing in order to read.

[carole gill]

So you make time. I'll have to. Thanks, Christa.

[I. J. Parker]

I try to keep up with the buzz and I also follow the careers of my favorite authors. Granted, there is little time. That explains why I lose patience very quickly when a book turns out to be a slow starter or mediocre.

[Christa M. Miller]

Yes - and why I am so picky about what I read. I have a hierarchy that involves people who have done me favors or been supportive of me/my writing in some way, as well as my personal favorites. I do discover new writers this way, but not as many as I'd like!

[carole gill]

so there's always the constant pressure of not being able to read as much as you'd like. When I posed this question, I wrote for a while and took a break of a couple of hours! and was reading! i heed advice!

[Dana King]

I agree with both I.J. and Christa. Re-read an old favorite if you have to. The joy and benefit of reading will come right back.

[carole gill]

just doing that! Ed McBain at the minute! so good. thanks to all of you for your advice.

[carole gill]

I know what you mean. so in that way, right there--for a newbie like myself, it'll be a good learning experience as well.

[Bethany K. Warner]

I say you've gotta read. To me, it's the way to keep up on what's out in the market, what's selling and how to hone your craft. I read all the time and see things that bug me as a reader that I try to avoid as a writer.