Reading As An Euphoric Lifestyle

Tokimeku is a Japanese word used to describe the flutter one feels when they find delight in something. In many ways, it captures the sensation Kat Pierce experiences whenever a compelling book comes floating within her orbit.

Recently I stumbled across Kat’s profile on Instagram and found myself mesmerized by her dazzling compendium of pictures profiling her reading universe.  So I reached out to her in the hopes of uncovering more about her adventurous love affair with books. Here’s what she had to say: 

Briefly share with us a bit about your life journey 

I am currently a library science undergraduate, pursuing a future occupational transition into academic librarianship. I formerly worked in the federal government serving in the armed forces. 

What is the deeper significance of reading in your life? 

In short, it’s my favorite pastime and source of entertainment and enlightenment. I often encourage others to read, yet as with most new interests, their main complaint and issue tend to be a lack of consistency. 

How did you come to adopt the “Reading As A Lifestyle” motto? 

The best way to form better habits is to incorporate it into your daily routine rather than merely something you do periodically. Hence my slogan, "Reading as a lifestyle".

What initially fueled your interest in books? 

My interest in books was fueled by the knowledge that my ancestors were not permitted to read. As the saying goes, "I am my ancestor's wildest dreams." They picked cotton so I can pick up a book.

What have you discovered about yourself by way of your reading pursuits?

Through my journey, I have learned that America's school system has taught me nothing. I was raised to see the world through a skewed lens of propaganda. I have a lot more reading to do to decolonize my mind.

What are 2-3 of the most compelling books you’re read this year and why?

For me, there are so many relevant and timely books emphasizing the beauty and greatness within the Black community that are worth mentioning:

The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South by Michael W. Twitty

Black Fortunes: The Story of the First Six African Americans Who Survived Slavery and Became Millionaires by Shomari Wills

Twisted: The Tangled History of Black Hair Culture by Emma Dabiri 

How has the Covid-19 pandemic and racial justice protests influenced your current book interests?

The quarantines and travel restrictions of Covid-19 have changed my reading rate. I have found myself reading slower, primarily due to stress and worry for family and friends. Additionally, participation in racial justice protests has taken time from the book. Yet neither of these developments has altered my interest in genres.

Why the decision to pursue a Library Science degree? What do you hope to do with that degree?

This will be a second career for me after retirement. And, at last, a dream career I can pursue without fear of inadequate income. Librarians are the gatekeepers and safeguards to knowledge. They were the original Google. I seek to be this and a pillar of the community inspiring other Black and brown youth who rarely see someone who looks like them in this field. I aspire to become a librarian on the academic level for a higher learning institution.  

Where are your favorite places to hole up and read? 

I have a reading nook at home complete with a chaise by the window. It is my favorite place to snuggle up with a throw blanket, hot tea, and a good book. 

And what type of bookstores appeal to you?

I prefer independent establishments over chains and particularly try to prioritize support for the Black-owned ones.

A few bookstores of note are:

Eso Won Books (LA, CA)

Ashay by the Bay (Vallejo, CA)

Recycle Books (San Jose, CA)

Do you prefer hardback/paperback, digital, or audiobooks? 

I love them all, although I prefer a physical book to annotate, highlight, tab, and doodle in the margins.

Who are your favorite authors? And what 1-2 books have had the greatest impact on your life and why?

The idea of naming every author or life-changing book I’ve read gives me anxiety. I love too many.   

-Kat