Answered like a true avid reader. I think books appeal to us for so many different reasons. And as we grow and change as people so do our tastes. They can mark times in our lives, if we think back upon them, like good music.

There is so many books that I find hard to recall from my late teenage years and early twentys. That's why I am rereading some of the ones that really stood out to me to try to refresh my memory of what made them great.

I do agree that characters are so central. Some people are either into strong plots, or strong characters, but I think both are key. But without good characters to drive the plot then forget it. The Jack Reacher series are great. I am way behind on them, but I like what I have read. Anne McCaffrey's Dragonrider is one I need to reread.

I always wished I could read quicker. My sister always had the ability to read a book in one sitting. As a child I took several weeks to finish one. Not sure why, as I was a good student and never struggled with reading, but books would bore me. I had to address that because I wanted to read and experience the wonder of reading. That's why I think so highly of Philip K Dick - it was his writings that snapped me out of that. I ended up reading at least 30 of his books in about 6 months. I think my problem is I just was never given anything as a child I enjoyed.

So now I am playing catch up. Seeing what great books I have missed over the years that others recommend. Thanks for the comment and suggestions.