Booking Through Thursday: Last book meme

This week’s Booking Through Thursday (click image for more information) was a compilation of questions:

What was the last book you bought?

I can’t say because I bought it for Buy A Friend A Book Week and she hasn’t gotten it yet. It’s a surprise. (I actually am waiting to get her address so I can send it to her; I’d hate for her to read what it is here.)

Name a book you have read MORE than once

The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings

Has a book ever fundamentally changed the way you see life? If yes, what was it?

Yes. Not to be preachy or anything, but The Bible and in conjunction with that, The Liturgy of the Hours. Among others that have changed the way I see life include A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving, that indeed there may be a plan for our lives and we just may not see it.

How do you choose a book? eg. by cover design and summary, recommendations or reviews

It’s rarely cover design. Sometimes I choose a book based on recommendations and reviews from others online, although I tend to steer clear of ARCs and newer books, since so many classics are out there that I need to “catch up on”.  Often, it’s whatever strikes my fancy from my ever-expanding TBR list.

Do you prefer Fiction or Non-Fiction?

This may surprise you, if you look at the list of books I’ve read this year, but I prefer nonfiction. I’d rather read a story rooted in reality than one in fantasy.

What’s more important in a novel – beautiful writing or a gripping plot?

Hmmmm….I wouldn’t say gripping plot. Sometimes the plot meanders along, and that’s all right, as long as it doesn’t drag down. I guess then I’d have to say beautiful writing.

Most loved/memorable character (character/book)

Just one? Okay, then Owen Meany.

Which book or books can be found on your nightstand at the moment?

The Story of A Soul: The Autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux

What was the last book you’ve read, and when was it?

Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes, Monday.

Have you ever given up on a book half way in?

Yes. But I don’t know if I’m finished with them yet: the two are The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon and Swann’s Way by Marcel Proust, both of which I still intend to finish this year.