Tiffany Painter

I just started reading a YA (young adult) book called Being Mary Bennet by J.C. Peterson. The main character is a high school senior named Marnie who in addition to having all the awkwardness of a 17- year-old is happiest in the library reading. None of this is especially original, but when Marnie’s friend calls her a Mary Bennet in a not good way, I took notice. What’s wrong with Mary Bennet? I had to get out my old copy of Pride and Prejudice to place this Bennet sister. I remembered Jane as the oldest and prettiest, Elizabeth as the one who was too proud to admit her feelings for the dashing Mr. Darcy, and Lydia as the troublemaker younger sister. The youngest sister was Kitty who needed to be redirected from the bad influences of Lydia. But what was Mary’s story? Then I remembered. Mary was the bookish one and often considered the boring sister. In most movie adaptations, Mary is a minor character. The typical overlooked middle child. As a middle child who is often reading, I am a little offended at this stereotype. Reading should not be seen as a boring habit or something that makes a person boring. I read across most genres (still not brave enough to read horror) and find that gives me more knowledge of things I may never experience first hand. I can appreciate multiple points of view and, because I read books for all ages, I can relate to people outside my age bracket. Choosing a life with less drama and appreciating a good book does not make a person boring just happier. I’ll keep reading to see how Marnie shakes this stereotype because I have faith that she will, but I think she’ll still keep reading. And so will I.

1/6

living with regret
didn’t leave when had the chance
shivers in the cold

1/8

best of both worlds
longing for blue summer days
finding joy in snow

1/11

found good spot to lie
stretched out by the fireplace
may be her till spring

1/15

when it’s cold outside
hanging out inside might be
most excellent idea

1/18

waiting for a change
warm days, brown land soon to end
arctic air blows in