It has been suggested by those closest to me that I may have a reading problem. I have to confess that I think it’s true. I read obsessively. I even chain-read sometimes, digging into the preface of a new book a heartbeat after finishing the author bio in the previous book. I know they say the first step to recovery is admitting that you have a problem, but in my case that’s likely to be the last step as well. If reading is wrong, I don’t want to be right.

Here at the library our adult winter reading program “Curl Up and Read” is in full swing. If you haven’t participated in the past, this is a great year to register and join the fun, because our grand prize is a 7 inch Kindle Fire! It’s easy to participate. Just read or listen to three books, then list them on an entry form. You will also be asked to write a one or two sentence review of one of the books. We collect the reviews and share them anonymously in a display at the reference desk. There is no limit to the number of entries you can make, just be sure to have your forms in by Monday, February 29. To be eligible for prizes, your card must be in good standing (fines must be below $10.00).

Reading is by its nature a solitary pursuit, but I really like the feeling of community that comes with enrolling in the reading program. I especially enjoy writing and reading the book reviews. It feels good to share your impressions of a book with others, and I’ve gotten a lot of good book suggestions from other participants’ reviews. Want even more suggestions for what to read? While you’re here, check out our new Readers Corner reading guides. Whether you’re interested in trying out a new genre, or just want some suggestions for the genres you already love, you’re sure to find some ideas. Or perhaps you’d like to pamper yourself with our new Personalized Reading Suggestions service. You heard that right, folks. Fill out the form as completely as you can, and we’ll recommend books just for you. It’s rock star service for readers.

Before I close, I’d like to share my first book review for this year’s winter reading program. The Oregon Trail : a new American journey by Rinker Buck. It was one of Nancy’s Pearl’s favorite books of 2015. In a WPR radio interview, she described it as her “go-to” book of the year. Coming from the only librarian I know of with her own action figure, I found that an impressive recommendation. My review may not be as in depth as the one she gave, but it does fit inside the Curl Up and Read review snowman.

Feel like sharing your own haiku-style review of one of your favorite books? We’d love to hear from you.