TBR: To Be Read (or not to be read, that is the question).

Many readers and writers are familiar with the TBR pile. Whether this stack of books is situated on a shelf, nightstand, or stored in a digital library, the stories wait patiently to be chosen, cracked open, and enjoyed. Or, sometimes the books scream and plead with you to be picked up every time you walk by.

Whatever the case, a TBR pile is something to look forward to. The titles may have been recommended from other readers or bookstore impulse buys. They may have a bookmark noting an attempt at reading during a free moment before life threw other deadlines at you. But the fact they're still around is a sign it's still part of the TBR pack and not the latest addition to the donate pile or Little Free Library.

This summer, I noticed the numerous TBR piles popping up around my home. At this point, there's a small sampling in every room (ironically, not the bathroom). There's some fiction I wanted to read before its film adaptation released. There's nonfiction writing craft books. There are books written by friends that I plan on finishing and reviewing. The plan was to take a break from writing this season to tackle these piles. There are a few more weeks of summer left and the piles are only growing.

While I'm not opposed to having small stacks of books scattered around my home — in fact, I think it fits my writerly aesthetic — I've decided that each book gets three attempts at completion before they're given a new home. I used to feel forced to finish reading even if I couldn't get into the story. No more. There are so many great books out there waiting to be read. Once a spot opens up on the shelf or nightstand, there's room for new adventures.