Have you ever tried something or read something and just couldn’t understand it? And you start thinking….there has to be a way. There has to be some sort of resource I can tap into….We’ve all heard of the “….for Dummies” series whether for the computer, learning a new language, buying a pet or exercising (OK, I’m not sure about the last one but I’ve seen the others). You may also non-admittedly remember the “Cliff Notes” series from high school and/or college. Do these still exist or am I showing my age? What Cliff Notes was used for was a high level summary of a book or condensed version of a topic. I remember very vividly that you can’t rely on these for comprehensive reading tests. I caught on to that pretty quick.
A friend of mine is reading a book recommended by our church Southbrook called “The Divine Conspiracy” by Dallas Willard. When this was discussed and incorporated into the week’s discussion, it was very comprehensible and intriguing. I volunteer in the bookstore and heard it was a good book but a difficult read. Once I hear “difficult to read” I quickly retreat. I like to read books (pictures optional) and want to enjoy the time, not feel overwhelmed or frustrated. So, I decided this book wasn’t for me. My friend decided it take the challenge! He determined it was difficult to read which led to a discussion about the “….for Dummies” series. We agreed this book would be a good candidate.
So….my point? What books, experiences, etc. do you think would be good candidates for the “Dummies” series?
Filed under: Personal
In my many years of work experience (all w/ the military), we have a short synopsis called “Executive Summary” which usually prefaces large documents. I know that many books provide a quick insight to their contents, usually on the back cover, but these are really more intended to “hook” you onto buying and readying said book. I’m sure there is a website (or many) that provide overall summaries, reader comments, and possibly a general overall rating on a book. Of course, that still doesn’t preclude me from starting a book, and then realizing either the material isn’t interesting, or I’m not the intended audience, or even the author just writes in a style that’s difficult to read. That being said, I now have a personal policy that I don’t have to finish a book just because I started it, or someone else recommended it. Time is too valuable to spend it frustrated with one of my favorite hobbies, especially one which provides me a sense of renewal.