I really like scary books, and I just read the Road by Cormac McCarthy and am about 75% We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver as per some recommendations. HOWEVER, I don’t think I can finish WNTTAK – if feels like the most oppressive onslaught reading it, which I’m guessing was the point – but i’m wondering, at what point do you stop reading a book? I hate leaving books unfinished, because for a long time I would lose interest in a book and then feel bad about not finishing it so I make a point of reading to the end. but this one feels like a literal assault on my mind. I’m also wondering – at what point is reading BAD for you? I know it’s good to improve your vocabulary, your comprehension skills, etc- but I feel like this book and others are almost psychologically damaging in a way. The Road was quite a short and “easy” (text wise) read so it didn’t feel as bad to read despite the grim subject matter, plus the love the man had for his son was a sweet point. anyway sorry for the rant, just wondering if others have had a similar experience! cheers and happy reading
by albertsonm