So many books, so little room in my suitcase

Tomorrow, we jet off to New York, one of the literary hotspots of the world. Whether I’ll see anything of literary note, I don’t know, but I will be visiting one of the largest comic book shops in the world, so that should be fun!

One of the most difficult parts of packing is deciding what to bring to read. I tend to overpack on books while neglecting to bring the essentials (just ask my sister-in-law who innocently offered me a pink, sparkly t-shirt when I forgot my pyjamas years ago while I was visiting the future Mrs. Caboose). I know I won’t have that much time to read, but that doesn’t stop me from carrying as many books as I can!

First thing that goes in is the book I’m currently reading, Someplace to be Flying, by Charles de Lint. This is one of my favourite books, one that I’ve read six or so times now, and one I will discuss in greater detail upon my return.

Now, I’m fairly confident that even though I’m already halfway through the book, that I won’t have the time to finish it on the vacation, what with the shopping and the touring and the shows and the New Yorkers who will beat me up for telling them how great the Toronto Blue Jays are. However, that doesn’t stop me from bringing a second book, Odd Hours, by Dean Koontz. This is number four in a series of books starring the character of Odd Thomas, a person who can communicate with ghosts. Although these books aren’t exactly intellectual fodder, they are a ton of fun and I find the character has a unique voice that I enjoy revisiting time and again.

Finally, to satisfy the comic nerd in me, I am bringing the fourth volume in the Ultimate Invincible Collection. Invincible is a superhero saga, cleverly written, beautifully drawn, and, despite the familiar super-themes, has entertaining twists on the classics.

So there you have it. Three books, which I’m fairly sure I won’t get through, but my motto is like the Boy Scouts: Be Prepared. Of course, I would be lost in the woods (for years, if someone asked me what direction north was, I would point up), but plunk me down in a long line-up or waiting room and I will always be ready to stave off boredom.

When I return, I hope to have plenty of adventures to blog about. Until then, I wish the Internet a fond adieu. Oh, and don’t touch my stuff!