Obviously I’ve been thinking a lot about readers lately. And since I did a post on types of writers, this only makes sense. Right? You think I’ve already covered this. You think I’m obsessive. Well, you’re right to a point. But I’ve gained some knowledge which doesn’t exactly translate to insight. In fact, it is more of an observation—and can be a frustrating one at that.
First of all, as a writer of novels, one is forced to think about readers. I mean, I don’t want to be the only one reading my books. You know? But then I go into either the local Christian Supply or Family Christian or the discount Christian bookstore at the mall, not to mention the online sites, and I am forced to consider those darn readers again, revealing the scary fact that not all readers are like me. Not even close. Not in genre preferences. Not in time allotted for reading. Not in book evaluations. Not in book prominence in their lives. Just not like me in so many ways.
So . . . here are some types of readers compiled from my associations with and observations of people who read. (Feel free to amplify the list and add your own conclusions.) (I’m primarily referring to readers of novels because they are the only ones I care about. Just kidding. Sort of.)
Voracious readers: These people must have a book lined up for when they finish the one they’re reading or they begin to panic. Their book shelves are full and books are piled on the floor awaiting the next piece of furniture or shelving to contain them. They do not part with their books, unless they really hated one—and then it’s still hard to do. No matter what, these readers will finish the book they start. They usually have their specific and favorite genres and very seldom veer to the right or to the left of them. If they do sneak outside their favorites, the opinions of those renegade books are usually pointed in favor of or in absolute opposition to said books.
Avid readers: These people enjoy their books. They frequently buy books, but they’re just as likely to go to the library and check out a bundle of them, making their way through reading them in a methodical fashion, attempting to and usually succeeding at finishing them before the books are due back at the library. They have their favorite genres, but they’re not averse to wandering into other experiences.
Steady readers: These people find books a refreshing use of their time, but generally spread the reading of a book over a period of time—perhaps a chapter a night/day. They finish the book if they like it, but it’s not unheard of for them to dump one mid-stream if it doesn’t appeal to them and replace it with another. They will usually read a revolving selection of genres, establishing a favorite but not strictly adhering to it. They might be the most likely to form book clubs with other readers.
Casual readers: These people like to read but do not look for ways to incorporate it into their schedules. If a book happens to strike their fancy either from a recommendation or controversy, they will go out and purchase the book to see for themselves if they agree or disagree with what was said to them about it. They are in no big hurry to finish the tome or to form an opinion. It will happen in due time. It’s pointless to ask them what they think as they’re reading it because they may be in Chapter One for three weeks.
Convenience readers: These people will select a book to read when it’s convenient to do so. On an airplane, during a train ride, on vacation. They tend to read bestsellers in a particular genre, and, interestingly enough, they’re either a fan of literary fiction or its opposite. They’re usually fast readers and form opinions of the books quickly with a take it or leave it mentality.
Light readers: These people read once in awhile. Books are not their primary choice for entertainment, relaxation, or a source for interesting discussion. If they do decide upon a book to read, they will no doubt finish it because they have consciously chosen to invest their time in doing it. The light readers are not easily impressed because they don’t have a high regard for books, nor do they have much to compare one to since they read infrequently. While they might appreciate the story, they’d no doubt prefer to have seen a movie of it instead. Don’t expect rave reviews about a novel from these folks.
Guess which one I am? Which one are you—a combo perhaps?
Father, you know me—passionate. Thank you for that. I love you, and when you direct my zeal and keep me in check, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Praise the Lord. Thank you for it all, in the Name of Jesus, Amen.
*Kristy Dykes is home from hospice. She is weak but faithful. Please pray for her.*