Reading for me is an experienced pen down on paper. I get to live the lives of the characters in almost all the books that I have read. There are instances where a certain situation faced by a character happens to me, and I usually do what I learned from those books.
What is your favorite time or place to read?
I have no favorite time. I can read in the morning or afternoon or evening or late in the night. The different times depending on my mission. If I am reading a book for the second or third time, I choose the early mornings or late evenings when everywhere is quiet. If it's my first reading, I'll start in the morning, stay late into the day. Most times, I usually don't stop reading until I finish a book to wet my curiosity. I can read a book I find boring "but have to finish" in-between breaks, and lunches.
The place I choose for reading can be quite weird. As a child, I usually choose to read during events so I don't have to participate in anything happening around me. Books were mostly my escape from the rest of the distractions. I did read while walking home or going somewhere. And I read in church during service.
Now, that I have my own space, I stopped those childish acts. My place of reading turned out to be on the bed, in-between my sheets. I like being warm while reading. I have become so addicted that you will always find me in bed with a book. My neighbors have gotten used to that position. So if any of them comes visiting, they'll have to use the seat while I talk to them from my reading position. Once they leave, I resume reading.
What makes you enjoy a book?
Initially, the things I loved about books had been the author's ability to keep me rooted till the end. Gradually, I started adding other effects. I have to be getting new information, lessons, and experience from the characters.
For instance, when I read "The Godfather" by Mario Puzo, I learned about the world of thugs, drug lords, mafias, etc. I was able to get into the skin of each character. I was particularly fascinated by Don Corleone. He was able to move from grass to grace, and maintain his position of power through thick and thin. I also enjoyed the power he willed and the numerous ways by which he was of help to the people around him. Albeit, he always got the favor returned.
In short, there was something about the Don that I liked to emulate. Knowing what to control and what he cannot control. Learning the art of persuasion. Understanding people, and their needs, and being in a good position to save them in disastrous situations. When his lawyer died, I was touched that he asked the Don to save him from death. At this point, Don Corleone understood what he can and cannot do. And he rebuked his lawyer. Don Corleone had so many things brought into play, ranging from family, loyalty, etc. I won't be able to finish the answers for this contest if I dwelled upon everything.
For me to truly say I enjoyed a book, it must be embedded with lessons, that I can practice in real life. Other books that gave me such an edge, include "Memories of Moonlight by Sidney Sheldon.", "Master of the Game by Sidney Sheldon", "Saffron Skies by Lesley Lokko" to mention but a few.
Do you like to read outdoors, before bed, or on the bus on your way to work?
I guess I already answered this. Initially, it was the outdoors for me, now, it's indoors, on bed precisely. I can still do both. Only, my bed wins more times.
Do you focus on character development, thoughtful messages, or the level of intrigue a plot generates in you?
Again, I answered this too. It's the level of intrigues for me. Thoughtful messages are inclusive. Character development as well. If I have a book that does all three, I read it again and again. The examples of books that have stolen my heart because of the ability of the author to do this are the ones I mentioned above.
This is my entry to the Community Contest #3 All About Readers and I invite 
