Perhaps We Could Find Some New Book Topics to Argue About - Reactor

Key Points:

• The New York Times highlights the normalization of DNF-ing (not finishing) books, sparked by Goodreads' introduction of an official "Did Not Finish" shelf, reflecting an ongoing debate about whether quitting a book is acceptable or a cop-out.
• The article discusses enduring book-related controversies such as the value of reading classics versus contemporary works, emphasizing that variety and personal enjoyment should guide reading choices rather than rigid rules.
• It argues that all forms of reading—including audiobooks, comics, and children’s or young adult literature—should be recognized as valid, challenging gatekeeping attitudes that dismiss these media or genres.
• The piece critiques the concept of "performative reading," where reading choices are made to impress others rather than for personal pleasure, encouraging readers to read authentically without concern for external judgment.
• Additional long-standing debates addressed include the problematic gendering of books and the persistent literary versus genre fiction divide, with calls to move beyond stereotypes and embrace a broader, more inclusive understanding of reading preferences.