On Her Nightstand: Jane Janovyak

FEATURE | On Her Nightstand On Her Nightstand

By Wendy Stein

What are you currently reading?

I usually have at least two titles going at the same time, one fiction, one factual. Right now, the novel is “Intimacies” by Katie Kitamura. It’s a chronicle of events in the life of a woman who is an interpreter at the international court at The Hague. The writing is very spare, not showy. But Kitamura builds an atmosphere so masterfully, the story moves like a thriller. Her consideration of what intimacy is in human experience is all done with light touches, but it is making me think. It’s really good.

The non-fiction title I’m into right now is “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” by James Nestor. I’ve just started it, so I haven’t formed an opinion yet. It sure did get a lot of attention when it came out, so I want to know what he’s got say about breathing.

What’s your favorite book of all time?

Favorites are hard for me, but I will go with “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It’s one of the few that I’ve read repeatedly, and it speaks to me every time. I know that this book has lost favor with some in recent years, but it remains powerful to me. And Scout still feels so authentic. I don’t often re-read, but a couple of years ago, I ended up reading Paulette Jiles’s “News of the World” three times for different discussion groups, and it held up impressively.

Jane Janovyak has lived in Fort Wayne for more than twenty years. She is a secretary for Fort Wayne Community Schools’ Psychological Services department. Jane has five daughters, all of whom are readers.

Is there a book you’ve always meant to read but haven’t gotten around to?

Oooh, there are so many of these. Let’s go with “Great Expectations.” My never having read it was a running gag with my late husband. One of these days, I am going to get around to it.

How about a book you like to give as a gift?

I like to give “The Philharmonic Gets Dressed” by Karla Kuskin to young kids. For grown-ups, there’s no one title. I just try to make a good match.

Real books or e-reader? Or audio books?

Real books, all the way. a

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