Looking back on my first Goodreads Reading Challenge in 2016, I can't help but feel proud of myself. While a lot of the books were favorites that I re-read, the 30 books I managed to read while balancing school and part-time work proves how much I desperately need the consolation good stories provide. The three years I have been in college have been consistently rough. I haven't much enjoyed my experience and have found that escaping reality has been the only way to maintain sanity. I've often felt alone on my campus, secure only with a book in hand. I suspect I will feel this way for the rest of my life, but it doesn't sadden me like it used to. Reading brings me great joy, and I can only hope to impress myself again with the 2017 Reading Challenge. So far I am five books ahead of my goal, so it's looking good!