Turning Pages: Embarking on a Bookish Blogging Journey

 

Dearest Readers,

I'm Willow, an avid reader, book dragon, and crafty creative. Some of you may know me from my blog Flying the Hedge, where I have been documenting my witchcraft journey for the past decade. I adore blogging. The only thing I love more than blogging is reading, which I do a lot of.

Are you an avid reader looking for your next book to devour? Unsure which books are worth your time, money, and effort? Interested in cooking some literary-inspired recipes or maybe constructing some bookish crafts?

Well, you have come to the right place! There is nothing more disappointing than buying, borrowing, or otherwise investing in a book just to DNF it a quarter of the way through. I hope to provide a remedy to this problem.

Because of my deep love of everything bookish, I decided to start a blog combining two of my favorite pastimes into one. Here at Plots & Potions, you can expect to find

• honest reviews of books, subscription boxes, and other literary goods
• recipes inspired by your favorite novels
• bookish crafts to show off your love of reading
• gift ideas for book dragons

and so much more...

While I love reading now that wasn't always the case. When I was little, I struggled with reading and reading comprehension. Why did a text have to have a set meaning? Why couldn't I interpret the story my way? How do we even know a bunch of long-dead white guys even meant what literary experts say they did? Because I was so headstrong, I was deemed a poor reader. In sixth grade, everything changed. My English teacher, Mrs. Ramsey, taught me that reading is about enjoying the story and taking away your own unique perspective. She nurtured my curious mind and let me express my thoughts without trying to 'correct' my understanding. From that point on, I couldn't get enough of books. I wasn't a 'poor' reader, I just saw the world differently.

Over the years I have gone through phases where I read nonstop or not at all. While I set book goals every year I don't view them as a requirement, and neither should you. It isn't about reading as many books as I can; it's about building relationships with fictional characters, enjoying their homelands, and expanding my mind and capacity for empathy. If you feel the same way about reading, I know we will get along swimmingly.

I am so excited to begin this journey with all of you. So come. Grab a blanket, a cup of hot tea, and your favorite book, and let's embark on a new adventure just a page away.

“All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost..." - JRR Tolkien