A Crow’s Musings: Thoughts from the Perch.

I didn’t always love reading. In fact, I didn’t truly begin to read until the second grade. Up until that point, books were more of a burden than a joy for me. But the day I stepped into that specialized reading class, my life started to change in ways I couldn’t yet understand.

The Early Struggles

I was placed in a specialized class designed to help students who needed more focused attention on learning how to read. While other kids were flying through their storybooks, I found myself struggling with the basics. Reading felt like an insurmountable obstacle, something that other kids seemed to conquer with ease.

In those early days, I wasn’t above using distractions to avoid reading. I would give my teacher compliments, hoping to steer the conversation away from the daunting task of deciphering words on a page. I thought I could charm my way out of learning. But, of course, my teacher saw right through my attempts.

The Turning Point

Rather than getting frustrated with me, my teacher became my greatest ally. She didn’t just teach me to read; she sparked something much more profound. She helped me realize that learning to read was more than just a skill; it was a doorway to a better future. Her encouragement lit a fire in me, and I began to see that education could be my chance to move up and out of poverty. Books became more than words on a page—they became keys to a new world.

Books That Shaped My Journey

The first fantasy series I ever read was Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time. Jordan’s writing didn’t just tell a story; it pulled me into his world with such intensity that I felt like I was living within the pages. His intricate plotlines and richly detailed universe ignited my imagination in a way no other series had before. It was with these books that I truly began to appreciate the power of fantasy to transport readers to entirely new realms of existence.

As I improved my reading skills, I started to discover the magic within books. My love for reading grew as I delved into different worlds, meeting characters who felt like friends, and experiencing adventures that were larger than life.

One of the authors who truly captured my imagination was Mercedes Lackey. Her Owl Mage trilogy left an indelible mark on me. Lackey’s world-building is nothing short of masterful; she seamlessly navigates different time periods, creating settings that feel both fantastical and real. I found myself completely immersed in her stories, losing track of time as I explored the realms she created. Her characters were complex and relatable, and they taught me about courage, perseverance, and the power of empathy.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series was another milestone in my reading journey. I was fascinated by the depth of her characters—not just the main ones like Harry, Hermione, and Ron, but also the many side characters who each had their own stories to tell. Rowling’s ability to create a world that felt so vivid and alive was inspiring. Through the trials and triumphs of her characters, I learned valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

A Lifelong Love Affair with Books

Looking back, it’s hard to believe that I once struggled to read. Now, books are an essential part of who I am. They have provided me with escape, inspiration, and wisdom. They’ve shown me that no matter where you start in life, the knowledge and experiences found in books can help you rise above any challenge.

Reading has become not just a hobby, but a passion—a way to explore the world, understand others, and continuously learn and grow. And it all started with that second-grade class where a kind teacher believed in me and taught me the value of learning.

Books have been my companions on this journey, guiding me through the ups and downs of life, and I know they will continue to do so for the rest of my life. Whether I’m delving into another Mercedes Lackey masterpiece, revisiting the magical world of Harry Potter, or embarking on a new adventure with Robert Jordan, I’m forever grateful for the love of reading that was sparked in me all those years ago.

Action Step: Discover Your Own Journey

If my story resonates with you, I encourage you to reflect on your own reading journey or start one today. Pick up a book—whether it’s a classic you’ve never read, a new release, or a genre you’ve never explored—and give yourself the gift of immersion in a new world. Consider starting with one of the books or series that inspired me, like Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time, Mercedes Lackey’s Owl Mage trilogy, or J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. You never know which book might ignite a lifelong passion for reading in you. Happy reading!