The Novel's Hero

So I've finally started reading a little bit more again. This was sparked by my recent flight to Atlanta where it was just really helpful to have something of distraction for the three hour flights to and from my destination. Now three hours to the average person probably doesn't seem like all that much in the big scheme of things but my brain is constantly seeking something to distract it during this entire time. I'm used to being able to look something up on my phone (internet), read my email (internet), search for new music (internet), etc. You catch my drift. I'm basically craving some internet access here during my short time of 'sitting still'.

I've realized this internet craving gets filled almost all the time while my craving for a good, sit down, book, doesn't. Why is this? Why has our world become so used to using, needing, or wanting the internet all the time? Or is it just me? I mean I've even chosen to start writing in a blog that's online rather than my typical pen and paper (well, sometimes my hand just hurts from typical writing...).

Anyways, back to my original purpose of this post. I've started a book recently that multiple people recommended. Of course, as I go through chapters of the book I'm on edge trying to figure out how this could possibly end. The thing about books is that when you know there's a second, or even third book already written, you sometimes have an idea about what's going to happen to this main character. But pushing that thought aside I got to thinkin...

Have you ever put yourself in the main character's shoes? You know this character already has such strong qualities and will likely come out on top. (Hey, they wouldn't be a main character without these then, would they?)But really, you start to put yourself in this predicament that the character is having and thinking 'is that what I would do?'. The upcoming battle will require some skill, wit, off the cuff decision making, yet we all know this character's got it all. But do I? What if I had to live this out and make these same decisions? Would all of my weaknesses come through and I'd end up being the side character that the main character demolishes in battle? Or if I was this main character, would all my strengths shine through and I'd save the day?!

Just think about it next time you're reading one of your addicting novels. Now that's my random tidbit for the day.

Until tomorrrow...