Tuesdays

Most high school students are not fond of reading. However, a random moment sparked a conversation between a student and me about Jon Krakauer’s work. Krakauer happens to be my favorite author [“Into Thin Air” being my most preferred book]. Therefore, when asked for my thoughts on my favorite book, I was stoked out of my gourd.

I have no idea what prompted the Krakauer question, but I spewed my thoughts about “into Thin Air,” “Into the Wild,” “Under the Banner of Heaven,” and Krakauer’s writing in general. After sharing my thoughts, class continued with no further thought about the author.

Or so I thought.

At class’s start A few days later, the Krakauer asking student handed me “Tuesdays with Morrie” (by Mitch Albom). “You should read this,” he stated confidently. “You will enjoy the book.”

I stared at the book, read the title and back cover, and quickly reasoned that this book was similar to my favorite Krakauer works in one fashion only - human suffering. To my initial disliking, the book did not include the outdoor elements, the real danger, the sport, and the unexpectedness of humans trying to conquer nature that keep me glued to Krakauer’s every word. I had emphatically emphasized the great qualities that I drew me to Krakauer’s writings. Nevertheless, I took the book and lackadaisically suggested “I would read it when I am done with my current reading material.”

Fast-forward a week. I am bored with my book “Last Dance” (by John Feinstein), a book on the Final Four that I should love and read quickly. However, this book did not stimulate me or hold my interest, so I was left trying “Tuesdays with Morrie.”

Reading fast and Todd are antonyms, but I have read 3/4 of the book in a few days. Granted, it is a small book, and I was able to read on my flight from Portland to Atlanta.

Nevertheless, I am engrossed in a book I thought I would not like, that is unlike Krakauer’s books, and that is emotional and touching, and I am ok with these facts. I look forward to finishing the book and concluding my lessons with Morrie, and I suggest you start your class with Morrie soon…before or after reading the three aforementioned Krakauer works.

Get Out And Romp