Winter Reading

Let's face it: winter weather often prevents us from being outside as much as we might like. Being inside during a long winter isn't all bad though. It often gives us a chance to focus on chores, projects, or activities which get neglected during the summer. It also is a time when many people take advantage of the opportunity to relax. One favorite is a warm drink, a warm blanket, and a good book. We wanted to present some ideas to you for your winter reading list.

1. Try a classic. Many novels receive the classification "Classic" due to the quality of their writing. These books last throughout time, continuing to be relevant during changing times and cultures. They remain relatable even to us reading them today. If the size of some classics worry you, try looking for an abridged version which compacts the story, and sometimes changes it so that it is easier to read. Try The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. This story chronicles the adventures of a man who is jailed unjustly, and how he tries to regain his life once he escapes from the dungeon-like prison where he is held captive. He reinvents himself as the Count of Monte Cristo to facilitate his plan to gain justice for the years he lost.

2. Find an award winner. Many books are given awards based on different categories. Award winning books are often worth the read. Try Newbery Award winner The Giver by Lois Lowry. Newbery awards are reserved for excellent works in the genre of Children's literature. This book has a lot to offer the whole family though. This excellent story follows Jonas, a young boy living in a future Utopian society. He is selected for a special task of retaining memories for a culture which has forgotten its past. He must learn to cope with the burden of humanity's collective history. This book is an excellent choice to read as a family, or allow your children to read alone, however you may wish to review it first as some of the subject matter is a little heavy and may be slightly advanced or inappropriate for younger children. I would even recommend this book for an adult, and it would not take too much time to get through.

3. Pick a book for fun. You should read books that you like and find interest in. If you like fiction, go for it. If you are interested in a historical, political or popular figure, read their biography or autobiography. Read a commentary on your favorite religious text. Solve a mystery while reading your favorite detective novel. Genres abound and you should explore your favorite. But don't forget that sometimes variety is a welcome change. Perhaps you would be interested in Ted Kennedy's True Compass: A Memoir which chronicles the late Senator's life.

4. Read your favorite author. If you have an author that resonates with you, maybe from your first or repeat experiences with their books, then go for another! Stick with an author that resonates and see what range they offer and what ideas they explore in other books. My favorite fiction writer is Kurt Vonnegut. His offbeat humor and very active imagination make his books surprising and exciting to read, and his large collection of works makes finding new titles easy. Try starting with one of his well known titles, like Cat's Cradle or Slaughterhouse Five.

5. Take an interest in your feet. Our office is always looking for ways to advance your footcare, as we believe the feet are the foundation of your body and your well being. Learning about your feet can help you care for them. Call 800-487-8951 and follow the prompts to order your free copy of Dr. Vail's book (for local residents of Findlay, Ohio). It is full of information about your feet, common foot ailments, how to care for your feet, what treatments a podiatrist offers, and much more. You can also try to involve your whole family in their foot health. Try getting your children interested in their feet reading Dr. Seuss's The Foot Book. It also offers a great lesson on opposites.