For most of us reading 200 pages is like a walk in the park. We aren’t like those sad people who only manage to read a book a year.
So, there is nothing (and I mean nothing) to keep you from participating in International Anita Brookner Day:
- I don’t think any of her 24 novels are over 200 pages. If they are over 200, it can’t be by much.
- Her books are pretty darn easy to find in second hand shops and in libraries.
- You have 16 whole days to read one and then write something about it in time for Brookner’s 83rd birthday on July 16–and in this, the year that marks her 30 years of writing ficiton.
And here is food for thought:
- I know Brookner will not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I have been amazed by some of the reactions I have gotten so far. One blogger wrote to tell me that she meant to sit down and read 20 pages in her first attempt to read a Brookner novel. Instead she had to pull herself away from it 130 pages later so she could eat something.
- Perhaps even more amazingly, another blogger tried one Brookner novel and couldn’t finish it. But then, somewhat reluctantly tried another one some weeks later and ended up loving it (hope I didn’t put that too strongly).
- And then there is the blogger who reads mainly non-fiction who took IABD as a reason to read her first Brookner and she was very glad she did.
So what are you waiting for? Sixteen whole days to read 200 pages.
There are prizes!
You can include your pet!
There are almost no rules!
You don’t have to be a blogger!
Be a part of Internet history! There is a dedicated website where your review, pet photo, or other Brookner-related posting will live on in perpetuity (or at least until Blogger ceases to exist). It will be the most comprehensive place on the web for blogger and blog reader reviews of Brookner’s novels.
And if you have a blog, this is a perfect time for you to exhort your readers to be part of the fun.
hogglestock 
I surrender! I have no business checking out any more library books but you have convinced me. I'll get one when I'm back from vacation next week. I've already packed SEVEN books in my luggage so there's no way I'm buying another!
I've already checked our online catalog and my branch has some good choices.
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I'm so excited because I just purchased my first Brookner novel at my library's used book sale. I bought A Friend form England. I have no idea if it is her best or worst but I am glad that I finally own one and can give it a try.
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My review of Incidents in the Rue Laugier has been posted and what a book it was! Now I understand why you're such an admirer of Brookner's novels and I will certainly be reading more of her work. Thanks for the introduction.
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I will be on holiday during International Anita Brookner Day although I very nearly picked up Strangers last week to join you in spirit (and was promptly waylaid by something else). I did quite enjoy Hotel du Lac.
Enjoy!
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If I had one in my TBR pile I'd be in this as I love Anita Brookner … I shall have a look and see but I fear I may not and I'm not sure I can justify another book right now.
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Karen: I am so glad you have decided to take the plunge.
Kathleen: A Friend From England was my first Brookner novel as well.
Darlene: You are the true success story of IABD. I have posted your review on the IABD blog.
Claire: Not to beat a dead horse…but you can post before your holiday. Where are you going? I love to hear about travel plans.
Whispering Gums: You could always write something about your Brookner experiences. You don't need to post a review…
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15 days now… eek. I want to fit two in in that time… if I can!
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I hear you! Relentless – how could I miss this? Let me go pick a title now.
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