I love your suggestion about using the front matter for notes because I can do this with library books and large post it notes. I always felt as a library user I couldn’t annotate, but once I started with large sticky notes in the front, then wanted to also use smaller sticky notes for margin notes. More note taking!
I’m so glad you brought this up because there is definitely library reader erasure happening in this post. That is a fantastic idea to use large post it’s! Do you do anything with your post it’s after reading? I’m thinking that if the book is something special you could gather them into a notebook or something!
I do save them, but I can’t imagine them useful in the future! Chicken scratch and without a whole lot of context. That first big one might tell me a little of what I was thinking, but it wouldn’t give me much to build on. I take lots and lots of notes and I sometimes journal and I NEVER go back to any of it. The purpose for me is always the thinking and memory building of the pen to page. I’ve stopped even trying to make my journaling readable.
I love the post it note suggestion as well, mainly because I struggle with wanting to mark up a book I own if it's the first time I've read it or if it's an author I've not read before since I don't know if I'm going to enjoy the book. I tend to only keep the books I really enjoy after I've read them and the rest are either sold to a local used book store or donated, and I don't want to mark a book up if I don't know if I'll be reselling it or not! The post it idea just might solve that issue for me!
This is so insightful! I annotate sometimes but can certainly get caught up in the “aesthetics” rather than the reason why I am highlighting that line in the first place. I find it makes me a more mindful reader!
Beautiful annotations are so beautiful! But for me personally, they’re a trap 😂 Maybe once I get into more of a rhythm I can reintroduce highlighters though. It’d be nice to involve some color!
Love these tips!! I’m a middle school reading teacher but I don’t have an English degree, so I sometimes worry I don’t have all the best close reading tricks up my sleeve. I’ve been learning more about and practicing more annotation in my own reading life, and it’s led to really useful translations into my reading teaching as well. I’m excited thinking about the way I can use your index idea to support my students work in their books too!
I’m sure you are doing great work! How lucky for your students to have an English teacher with a different background who can help them approach reading in a different way from other LA teachers! I hope you find something in here that’s helpful for your students! I think even tracking characters and how they change throughout a book could be a good use for the index!
1 and 2 are exactly how I annotate my books, right down to the tabbed bookmark/straight edge. I like to use a pencil. I remember questions as a reading tool from school, I might have to circle back to this! I do not at all understand aesthetic annotation. I occasionally come across these videos and they're super satisfying to me as a reader, but also... it just seems to me like one more reading as an aesthetics thing, less reading to read. I'm sure the people who do it would push back on my opinion, and that's fine.
Your process is so interesting to read about Sara - and I’m checking out those pens! I love that you’re zeroing in on actions that work for you to read well this year and you’re inspiring me to think more deeply about what helps me be a better reader:)
This is so helpful Sara!! I feel like I’ve completely forgotten how to annotate, and all the empty aesthetic annotating has kind of turned me off of it entirely in recent years. But it really does add to your reading. I might still be too lazy for a ruler but I want to try anyway!!
Thank you for these ideas! I prefer to take my notes in Notion because it’s ever-present and searchable later (and because it’s faster to speak my thoughts via text dictation), but I have also been playing around with my note-taking, looking for the right balance between engagement and labor. I love the idea of a personal index and may borrow that!
Roger E. Pedersen: The Journey of a Visionary Author and Game Designer
Roger E. Pedersen’s journey to becoming an author is one of passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of storytelling. From a young age, he was drawn to books and video games, which fueled his imagination and love for creating new worlds. He was fascinated by how stories could take people to different realities, allowing them to experience emotions, conflicts, and adventures beyond everyday life.
As he grew older, his interest in storytelling expanded into the world of video game design. The ability to create interactive experiences where players could engage with narratives uniquely intrigued him. Over time, he became famous in the gaming industry, developing games that blended compelling characters, immersive settings, and strategic gameplay. However, while video games offered a way to tell stories interactively, he felt the medium had limitations. There were deeper themes and philosophical questions he wanted to explore, and he realized that writing books would give him the freedom to do so.
Transitioning from game design to writing was not an easy decision, but it allowed him to embrace his vision as a storyteller fully. The ability to craft intricate plots, develop characters with depth, and explore intense ideas without constraints was a challenge he was eager to take on. This shift led to the creation of his latest book, SuperPower: The Ability to Fly or to Become Invisible: The Golden Eagle Has Yielded (Book #3), a novel that reflects his unique approach to storytelling, combining elements of adventure, science fiction, and moral dilemmas.
In each of his books, he explores the concept of SuperPower and the choices that come with it. The stories present a deep question: If you had the SuperPower to either fly or become invisible, which would you choose? More than just a hypothetical scenario, this question is the foundation for a narrative that delves into human nature, morality, and the impact of possessing extraordinary abilities. Each book follows individuals who develop superhuman powers through secretive government projects and genetic experimentation. However, rather than focusing on traditional heroism, the stories challenge readers to consider the ethical consequences of such abilities.
Throughout the third novel, he examines how different characters respond to their two unique SuperPowers. Some embrace their abilities for personal gain, while others struggle with the responsibility that comes with them. The book does not present clear heroes and villains but instead portrays characters in shades of moral ambiguity. This complexity allows readers to see their reflections in the story, as it raises questions about ambition, justice, and the cost of power.
The theme of identity is another central aspect of the book series. As the characters face their newfound abilities, they must confront who they are and what they stand for. This struggle mirrors real-life experiences where people define themselves amidst societal expectations and personal desires. The books also highlight the influence of institutions, particularly how governments and organizations attempt to control those who possess extraordinary abilities. This dynamic presents a broader commentary on authority, surveillance, and the ethics of scientific advancement.
Readers who pick up the SuperPower series will be immersed in each story that challenges them to think beyond the surface. The books are not just about action and adventure but about introspection and moral choices. The dilemmas faced by the characters resonate with actual struggles, making the books deeply relatable. In their own lives, many people encounter moments where they must decide how to use the influence and opportunities available to them. Whether in their careers, relationships, or personal aspirations, the concept of power and responsibility is something everyone can connect with.
Beyond its philosophical undertones, the book is also relevant today, where technological advancements continue to blur the lines between science fiction and reality. With discussions about artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and government surveillance becoming more prevalent, Pedersen’s novel serves as both an entertaining and thought-provoking reflection on the future of human potential.
As an author, Pedersen is not stopping with this book. He is already working on the next installment in the book series, promising even more intrigue and deeper explorations of human nature. In addition to his writing, he is also considering expanding his work into other media formats. Whether through film adaptations (on StoryRocket.com), television series, or interactive digital experiences, he constantly seeks new ways to bring his stories to life.
His engagement with readers extends beyond his books. Through interviews, podcasts, and discussions on storytelling, he continues to share his insights on the creative process and the themes that drive his work. His ability to merge his background in video game design with his passion for writing gives him a unique perspective that sets him apart as a storyteller.
Roger E. Pedersen’s journey from game designer to author proves his commitment to storytelling in its purest form. His latest books have narratives that go beyond entertainment to explore the complexities of power, identity, and moral responsibility. Through his work, he challenges readers to reflect on their values and decisions, making his stories exciting and meaningful.
With more projects on the horizon, he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, ensuring that his work remains impactful and thought-provoking. His writing invites readers to question their perspectives, encouraging them to think about what they would do if given extraordinary power. As he continues to evolve as a writer, his ability to create compelling and introspective narratives solidifies his place as a significant voice in both the literary and gaming worlds.
The SuperPower book series is available as an eBook, audiobook, and paperback from Amazon, Google Play B&N, Kobo, Target, Walmart, Waterstones, and 100s of local bookstores.
I love your suggestion about using the front matter for notes because I can do this with library books and large post it notes. I always felt as a library user I couldn’t annotate, but once I started with large sticky notes in the front, then wanted to also use smaller sticky notes for margin notes. More note taking!
I’m so glad you brought this up because there is definitely library reader erasure happening in this post. That is a fantastic idea to use large post it’s! Do you do anything with your post it’s after reading? I’m thinking that if the book is something special you could gather them into a notebook or something!
I do save them, but I can’t imagine them useful in the future! Chicken scratch and without a whole lot of context. That first big one might tell me a little of what I was thinking, but it wouldn’t give me much to build on. I take lots and lots of notes and I sometimes journal and I NEVER go back to any of it. The purpose for me is always the thinking and memory building of the pen to page. I’ve stopped even trying to make my journaling readable.
Yes I have the same experience! Thinking and remembering improve with a pen in hand.
I love the post it note suggestion as well, mainly because I struggle with wanting to mark up a book I own if it's the first time I've read it or if it's an author I've not read before since I don't know if I'm going to enjoy the book. I tend to only keep the books I really enjoy after I've read them and the rest are either sold to a local used book store or donated, and I don't want to mark a book up if I don't know if I'll be reselling it or not! The post it idea just might solve that issue for me!
This is so insightful! I annotate sometimes but can certainly get caught up in the “aesthetics” rather than the reason why I am highlighting that line in the first place. I find it makes me a more mindful reader!
Beautiful annotations are so beautiful! But for me personally, they’re a trap 😂 Maybe once I get into more of a rhythm I can reintroduce highlighters though. It’d be nice to involve some color!
Love these tips!! I’m a middle school reading teacher but I don’t have an English degree, so I sometimes worry I don’t have all the best close reading tricks up my sleeve. I’ve been learning more about and practicing more annotation in my own reading life, and it’s led to really useful translations into my reading teaching as well. I’m excited thinking about the way I can use your index idea to support my students work in their books too!
I’m sure you are doing great work! How lucky for your students to have an English teacher with a different background who can help them approach reading in a different way from other LA teachers! I hope you find something in here that’s helpful for your students! I think even tracking characters and how they change throughout a book could be a good use for the index!
1 and 2 are exactly how I annotate my books, right down to the tabbed bookmark/straight edge. I like to use a pencil. I remember questions as a reading tool from school, I might have to circle back to this! I do not at all understand aesthetic annotation. I occasionally come across these videos and they're super satisfying to me as a reader, but also... it just seems to me like one more reading as an aesthetics thing, less reading to read. I'm sure the people who do it would push back on my opinion, and that's fine.
Your process is so interesting to read about Sara - and I’m checking out those pens! I love that you’re zeroing in on actions that work for you to read well this year and you’re inspiring me to think more deeply about what helps me be a better reader:)
This is so helpful Sara!! I feel like I’ve completely forgotten how to annotate, and all the empty aesthetic annotating has kind of turned me off of it entirely in recent years. But it really does add to your reading. I might still be too lazy for a ruler but I want to try anyway!!
Thank you for these ideas! I prefer to take my notes in Notion because it’s ever-present and searchable later (and because it’s faster to speak my thoughts via text dictation), but I have also been playing around with my note-taking, looking for the right balance between engagement and labor. I love the idea of a personal index and may borrow that!
Roger E. Pedersen: The Journey of a Visionary Author and Game Designer
Roger E. Pedersen’s journey to becoming an author is one of passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of storytelling. From a young age, he was drawn to books and video games, which fueled his imagination and love for creating new worlds. He was fascinated by how stories could take people to different realities, allowing them to experience emotions, conflicts, and adventures beyond everyday life.
As he grew older, his interest in storytelling expanded into the world of video game design. The ability to create interactive experiences where players could engage with narratives uniquely intrigued him. Over time, he became famous in the gaming industry, developing games that blended compelling characters, immersive settings, and strategic gameplay. However, while video games offered a way to tell stories interactively, he felt the medium had limitations. There were deeper themes and philosophical questions he wanted to explore, and he realized that writing books would give him the freedom to do so.
Transitioning from game design to writing was not an easy decision, but it allowed him to embrace his vision as a storyteller fully. The ability to craft intricate plots, develop characters with depth, and explore intense ideas without constraints was a challenge he was eager to take on. This shift led to the creation of his latest book, SuperPower: The Ability to Fly or to Become Invisible: The Golden Eagle Has Yielded (Book #3), a novel that reflects his unique approach to storytelling, combining elements of adventure, science fiction, and moral dilemmas.
In each of his books, he explores the concept of SuperPower and the choices that come with it. The stories present a deep question: If you had the SuperPower to either fly or become invisible, which would you choose? More than just a hypothetical scenario, this question is the foundation for a narrative that delves into human nature, morality, and the impact of possessing extraordinary abilities. Each book follows individuals who develop superhuman powers through secretive government projects and genetic experimentation. However, rather than focusing on traditional heroism, the stories challenge readers to consider the ethical consequences of such abilities.
Throughout the third novel, he examines how different characters respond to their two unique SuperPowers. Some embrace their abilities for personal gain, while others struggle with the responsibility that comes with them. The book does not present clear heroes and villains but instead portrays characters in shades of moral ambiguity. This complexity allows readers to see their reflections in the story, as it raises questions about ambition, justice, and the cost of power.
The theme of identity is another central aspect of the book series. As the characters face their newfound abilities, they must confront who they are and what they stand for. This struggle mirrors real-life experiences where people define themselves amidst societal expectations and personal desires. The books also highlight the influence of institutions, particularly how governments and organizations attempt to control those who possess extraordinary abilities. This dynamic presents a broader commentary on authority, surveillance, and the ethics of scientific advancement.
Readers who pick up the SuperPower series will be immersed in each story that challenges them to think beyond the surface. The books are not just about action and adventure but about introspection and moral choices. The dilemmas faced by the characters resonate with actual struggles, making the books deeply relatable. In their own lives, many people encounter moments where they must decide how to use the influence and opportunities available to them. Whether in their careers, relationships, or personal aspirations, the concept of power and responsibility is something everyone can connect with.
Beyond its philosophical undertones, the book is also relevant today, where technological advancements continue to blur the lines between science fiction and reality. With discussions about artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and government surveillance becoming more prevalent, Pedersen’s novel serves as both an entertaining and thought-provoking reflection on the future of human potential.
As an author, Pedersen is not stopping with this book. He is already working on the next installment in the book series, promising even more intrigue and deeper explorations of human nature. In addition to his writing, he is also considering expanding his work into other media formats. Whether through film adaptations (on StoryRocket.com), television series, or interactive digital experiences, he constantly seeks new ways to bring his stories to life.
His engagement with readers extends beyond his books. Through interviews, podcasts, and discussions on storytelling, he continues to share his insights on the creative process and the themes that drive his work. His ability to merge his background in video game design with his passion for writing gives him a unique perspective that sets him apart as a storyteller.
Roger E. Pedersen’s journey from game designer to author proves his commitment to storytelling in its purest form. His latest books have narratives that go beyond entertainment to explore the complexities of power, identity, and moral responsibility. Through his work, he challenges readers to reflect on their values and decisions, making his stories exciting and meaningful.
With more projects on the horizon, he continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, ensuring that his work remains impactful and thought-provoking. His writing invites readers to question their perspectives, encouraging them to think about what they would do if given extraordinary power. As he continues to evolve as a writer, his ability to create compelling and introspective narratives solidifies his place as a significant voice in both the literary and gaming worlds.
The SuperPower book series is available as an eBook, audiobook, and paperback from Amazon, Google Play B&N, Kobo, Target, Walmart, Waterstones, and 100s of local bookstores.
Website: PSIPublish.Com (link to StoryRocket.Com)