My reading journey began during a particularly difficult time in my life. While pregnant with my second child, I was diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition that caused debilitating nausea and sickness throughout my entire pregnancy. Struggling with constant illness, I found myself unable to engage in the activities I once loved, leaving me feeling lost and disconnected from who I was.

It was during this challenging period that my sister-in-law gifted me a book to help pass the time. As I immersed myself in the story, I found a sanctuary. The world within the pages allowed me to momentarily forget my illness and rediscover joy. I fell in love with reading, and in doing so, began to reclaim my sense of self.

Since late 2023, reading has become a constant source of joy and inspiration. Each book has opened new doors—new adventures, perspectives, and lessons. Through literature, I’ve been able to experience lives beyond my own. Reading has proven to be a blessing, helping me through the darkest of times.