February 2012: BAND
BAND — Bloggers’ Alliance of Nonfiction Devotees — is a group organized to promote the joy of reading nonfiction. We are “advocates for nonfiction as a non-chore,” and we want you to join us. Each month, a member of BAND hosts a discussion on their blog related to nonfiction.
FEBRUARY’s question asks:
What is one type of nonfiction you dislike and why? And, as an extra challenge (if you choose to accept it), ask your readers to recommend a book to try!
Well, first of all, I’m glad I re-read that question before answering, as I originally didn’t see the word “one” in there. LOL. Okay… so let’s see…
I really dislike nonfiction about history. Honestly, I know it’s important, but it bores me to tears. I have a couple of books to try on the subject, though: “A History of Reading” by Alberto Manguel, and “Library: A History” by Matthew Battles (don’t own this one, but want to). Yes, yes, I know… there’s a theme to those. 
I don’t even care much for biographies, either, as they’re basically a “history”, too. Same goes for historical fiction… but I’ll read this, occasionally.
And, this time, I don’t think I’m brave enough to ask for suggestions… but you’re always welcome to give them. I just don’t promise that I’ll hunt them down at some point.
I’m not crazy about historical non-fiction either. I really don’t know why, as I loved history in school. I’m not big on historical fiction either, although I do read it from time to time.
I like history — it’s like taking a vacation in time instead of space. And, I like thinking about how the history effects our lives today.
Here’s the mildest of suggestions. I’ve been reading The Intellectual Devotional this year, kind of like any other “devotional” with short daily readings. Many of the bits, of course, are historical. At least now in the beginning of the year. I’m guessing we’re building our way slowly to modern times.
I tend to like histories, but only if they’re narrative. I like reading about people, not necessarily dates or events.