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Maybe just one more chapter...

Happy 6th week of college, everyone! I can hardly believe how fast time flies. This evening, I read the Medium article, "What Are Mini Books and Why You Should Publish Them?”. I thought it made some valid points. I believe reading is essential. When one is a well read individual, it improves his or her abiltiy to relate to his or her peers. As it often pulls from literature, being well read also allows one to better appreciate various forms of entertainment. Reading a book that others also read or have read is means of social connection. Unfortunately, in today’s world, our time is limited. So many demands are placed upon our time, we often don't have the leisure time required to become fully engrossed in a lengthy novel. Despite this, there is a solution: mini books. (I, a lover of all things miniature, am intrigued by this concept.) "Mini books are designed to be consumed in one or two sittings, which is exactly what today’s busy readers love” (Thompson). Do not underestimate them - 'mini' in size does not mean 'mini' in substance. Mini books can be just as engaging and compelling as a standard novel. In addition, "[t]hey’re quicker to produce, meaning you can get your ideas out into the world faster...Mini books aren’t just a passing trend; they’re a smart, sustainable way to publish in a world that values quick, digestible content” (Thompson). Although not quite a true mini book, I was first introducted to this concept by one of my favorite authors, Stephen King. Wanting to revive the old-school method of publishing novels in increments, he released his book, "The Green Mile," in 6 smaller mini books. King's goal was the exact opposite of the mini books of which the article spoke. King hoped to keep his readers invested, eager for the release of the next installment, whereas today's minibook seeks to offer a quick, meaningful, stand-alone experience. Personally, I find mini books offer a reader maxmimum return on his or her investment. While short, they have the potential to be significant and meaningful. As part of a generation whose immersion in the digital world has led to struggles with attention span...wait. What was I saying? Just looking at the thick textbooks piled on my bedside table is enough to make me lose interest in that thick novel that promises to entertain me. A mini book is a lot like a coffee date. If it turns out to be a dud, I only invested a short amount of time. So what do you have to lose? I believe everyone can find enjoyment from a low-committment mini book. One day, when our college years are safely behind us, perhaps then we can look at War and Peace and decide it's worth the time.
Image Source: From Pinterest created by brea in bloom.

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