I have four different books going right now. Two are audio, and the other two are the type where, I have to do actual page turning.

This morning I decided not to finish one of them and I only just started it.

I’m fairly quick to cool it on a book if it doesn’t grab me early or if it causes me to stress. Reading is too hard for me to struggle.

I’ve already read two books under my 2017 reading challenge of books that can be put in the category of “a book made into a movie.” I read Hidden Figures and another one I can’t think of right now. But, I picked up A Dog’s Purpose at the Sally Anne yesterday, thinking it would be a nice read. Dogs and all.

Nope.

Even though it seems like a sweet book about the life and times of a dog – I do not like in the least, any mention of a person not being nice to a dog. Nope. Can’t even read about it. This book is closed for me. I remember closing up the book Water for Elephants the same way. I do not like it when any one is mean to a critter. Nope. It doesn’t even need to be blatant, even the hint of cruelty is enough for me.

The other page turner, I’m half way through, is a book I read before. I rarely read books multiple times, but I also know I will read this one again in years to come.

My Hitler Youth by Jürgen Grohne is one I’m filing under the books written by someone who is not a writer.

Jürgen was a my friend. He was one of the first people we met on Bowen Island. He was also one of the finest men I ever knew. Jürgen died in 2004, and not many days pass, where I don’t think of him.

I remember sitting in his backyard, listening to his stories — the same stories that are in this book. Jürgen can write, but he wasn’t a writer. He was a graphic artist, who wrote. I am glad he wrote this book. It deserves its own review another day. Stay tune.

The two audio books are as different as can be. The Three Musketeers and Insomniac City.

The Three Musketeers is entertaining. I find listening to classic books easier than reading them. But, my mind wanders as I listen; and I have a hard time following the action.

Insomniac City and was recommend in Brain Pickings By Maria Popova. I’m surprised by her recommendation, because I think it’s a stupid read. I should quit this one as well — maybe one more chapter.

I know calling a book stupid, is not a real review; but it’s what I have so far.

I’m starting to think I should focus on one book at a time, because this multi-task reading, is not doing me any favours.