Nonfiction November - Choosing Nonfiction

This weeks Nonfiction November is hosted by Rachel at Hibernators Library.

What are you looking for when you pick up a nonfiction book?

~ Honestly? I like to learn about new things or learn more about subjects that I am interested in. I find I enjoy narrative nonfiction more than drier stuff, but that doesn't mean I won't try something that interests me regardless of the writing style. I also like an original approach. I have read a lot of books about Canadian history, but even though The Promise of Canada covered topics I was familiar with, for example, it was done in an original way.

Do you have a particular topic you’re attracted to?

~ I find that if I browse my shelves or my wish list, I typically read books on the history of Canada and books about World War II. Canadian history has not been perfect, but I enjoy going back and seeing where we came from and how we have progressed. And, then, I thought I felt the same way about World War II, but recent events have me rethinking my thoughts that people had learned from those experiences... I will also read memoirs if I have an interest in the person. And, I just like history in general. Oh, and books about books will catch my eye as well.

Do you have a particular writing style that works best?

~ I like nonfiction that reads like a novel. I like when the author works their own experiences into the narrative while also talking about the larger issue. I find that makes it easier to relate to the subject matter. I also like when a writer is funny. That doesn't necessarily mean a comedian memoir, but like Mary Roach, for example. 

When you look at a nonfiction book, does the title or cover influence you? If so, share a title or cover which you find striking.

~ Titles and covers always catch my eye. Like this for example. I would have read it anyway, but the title is fun and reminds me of the movie, so it makes it that extra special and noticeable. I like the cover, too.