The Reading Obsession: Books, Java, and Living Through the Pandemic

As the world grapples with the ongoing spread of the coronavirus, many of us have found ourselves adjusting to a new normal. The global pandemic has not only disrupted daily routines, but it has also provided us with the opportunity to focus more on personal interests. For me, this has included an intense reading spree, with a side of programming and a daily routine of exercise to maintain a balance.

In April 2020, I embarked on an enriching journey through various literary works, each offering a unique perspective and a different kind of escape, all while grappling with the realities of a global crisis. Below, I share a detailed look at the books I read that month and some insights on my daily life during the pandemic.

April Reading List

This month, my reading list included a mix of classic literature and contemporary fiction:

Notes from the Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky The Geography of You and Me by Jennifer E. Smith Six of Crows and The Crooked Kingdom duology by Leigh Bardugo Golden in Death by JD Robb The Silent Widow by Sidney Sheldon The Dead List by Jennifer Armentrout King Henry IV Part-I

These books, each with its unique style and content, provided a variety of narratives and characters, ranging from psychological thrillers to historical drama. The variety kept my reading experience engaging and fulfilling, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Programming for Boredom

With a steady increase in free time, I naturally turned to various forms of programming, which has not only kept me occupied but also equipped me with practical skills. Previously, I had been reading Java: A Beginner's Guide as part of my curriculum. Now, with a revised and comprehensive 8th edition, I feel much more confident in my Java programming skills. Recently, I started studying Java - The Complete Reference (11th edition), which offers a broader and more advanced understanding of Java, and I find it incredibly helpful for both my academic and professional growth.

Java programming is not just a hobby; it is a valuable skill in today's digital age. My college professors highly recommended both books, and the solid foundation they have provided me with is invaluable. Whether it's coding a simple application or contributing to complex software projects, my programming skills are now much more robust.

Living Through the Pandemic

Living through the pandemic has been challenging, to say the least. The social distancing norms and remote work setups have significantly impacted daily routines. Being confined to home has given me ample time to focus on personal interests, such as gardening and yoga. Gardening has been a cherished activity, providing a sense of tranquility and a break from the monotonous life of work and screens. On a typical day, after a brief stint of gardening, I dedicate time to yoga, which helps me maintain both physical and mental well-being.

Being a student of Electrical Engineering, I find it rewarding to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects. Beyond my course work, I also engage in Java programming, which has become a regular part of my routine. The language's extensive functionality and versatility make it a favorite among professionals and hobbyists alike.

Looking back, the past few months have been a mix of challenges and opportunities. Through books and programming, I found ways to stay engaged, learn, and grow, even in the midst of a pandemic. If you are also looking to enhance your Java skills, I highly recommend both Java: A Beginner's Guide and Java - The Complete Reference. Both books are comprehensive and well-recommended by experts.

Thank you for asking the question, and here's to many more enriching reading experiences and continued learning!

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