Get to know us through the books we read! Every first Friday of the month we’re sharing an interview with one of the Language Centre’s staff members on a favourite or memorable book.
This month we’re chatting to Marisca Coetzee, academic literacies lecturer and coordinator of the Reading Lab. Marisca loves reading and is a passionate advocate for early reading with children.
What is the title of the book you’d like to share with us?
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod has had a huge impact on me.
Why is this book memorable to you?
Reading The Miracle Morning was a game changer for me in the sense that it was a habit changer. I’ve always been very skeptical about any book in the ‘Self-help/self-improvement’ category and usually avoid those shelves in a bookshop… nevertheless, by chance, I came across The Miracle Morning. This book has inspired me to be accountable and to transform my life. By implementing Hal Elrond’s Life S.A.V.E.R.S (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading and Scribing), I now have control over those aspects of my life that can be controlled, and acceptance of those aspects I cannot control. I am happier, healthier, less stressed and have energy to tackle each day head on. It has been particularly helpful in this challenging year the world has thrown our way.
Who is your favourite author? Also tell us why?
Trying to choose a favourite author is like trying to choose your favourite child. It is impossible. Favourite authors change like seasons do. At the moment my favourite season is autumn and with autumn comes Camilla Läckberg and Deon Meyer.
What are you reading at the moment?
At the moment I’m reading Prooi by Deon Meyer and The Choice by Edith Eger.
Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?
Is this even a question??? I associate reading on any electronic devices with work, so when it comes to reading for enjoyment, I want a physical book. I want to feel the pages between my fingers. And smell the paper.
What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?
The Unbearable Lightness of Being is a book that deserves more than one reading. I read it for the first time in my early 20s while travelling abroad. Reading a book for a second or third time at later stages in your life, brings completely different experiences and dimensions. You see the characters in a different light. Your attitude towards them is different from the first time you met them. All books that are larger than life, deserves a second reading.
Who is your favourite literary character?
Currently it is Bennie Griessel. Every time we ‘meet up’ in a novel, he makes me realise how fragile life. By living through him, I realise how important family is and how we should never take anything for granted. He has taught me to never judge someone until you have walked a mile in that person’s shoes. He also taught me that rough diamonds are particularly precious.
What book/books would you recommend to your students, friends or anyone else?
Definitely The Miracle Morning, The Unbearable Lightness of Being and Into the Wild.
