Emotional Investment

In almost all forms of entertainment, emotional investment seems to be key. I know I talked about American Idol earlier, and I'm not going to bore you with more American Idol details, but let's just say, I'm emotionally invested in one of the contestants (ANOOP!) and that's why I keep tuning in. Books are pretty similar. To keep turning the pages, or buying books in a series, you have to be emotionally invested in at least one character.

One series I was emotionally invested in--along with, like, half the world--was Harry Potter. While I, of course, was just as interested in Harry and his quests as everyone else, my most genuine emotional investment involved Hermione and Ron. I think it's because I could really relate to Hermione. I have the bushy brown hair and everything! Since book four or so, I've been on the edge of my seat, waiting for Ron and Hermione to finally be together.

Another book I was emotionally invested in was The Catcher in the Rye. Again, it was the relatability and sympathy of Holden that made me feel this way. I wanted him to not be so lost. I wanted things to be okay for him.

More recently, I just finished reading Jellicoe Road (which is the book I was talking about in my last post). In the beginning of the book, I was not as invested in the main character, Taylor, but by the end, I cared so much about her. I was outraged when she didn't get the information she deserved and was devestated along with her at a disaster towards the end. The book, overall, was very good by the way, and I highly reccomend it.

What are some books you all were emotionally invested in, and what do you think makes you emotionally invest in a book or a character?

American Idol!

I didn't mean to, but I can't help myself; I'm hooked again on American Idol.

I didn't plan on watching this season (I hadn't watched last season), but then there was nothing else on when the show first started...so I watched. Now I can't stop because I have to watch to see my favorite, Anoop Desai! Ever since his first audition, I liked him. He's the perfect combination of geeky, cute, and talented. The judges always mention how immensely likable he is, and I agree. I still don't think he's shown off his full potential, though, like he has in some YouTube videos with his college acapella groups. Anyone who's watching this season--and anyone who just might be curious--should check this song out, just as an example of some of his awesomeness. I can't wait until American Idol next week. He's been enduring some criticism for his performance this week, so hopefully he brings it. Their may be some big voices left in the Top 11, but when it comes to voices I'd like to listen to on the radio or on a CD, Anoop beats them all...at least for me.

Speaking of bringing it...someone who really knows how to bring it is the original American Idol, Kelly Clarkson. I've been a fan since that first season of American Idol. I even own the much mocked From Justin To Kelly. Her newest CD, All I Ever Wanted, just came out, and I'm loving some of the songs. There are some super catchy pop numbers. I especially like "Long Shot". Has anyone else listened to it yet? I think it's the type of CD that needs a couple listen before you really can appreciate it. What are your thoughts?