We all do it. We look back at the books we read and the shows we watched as kids and smile fondly. These are the things that helped shape who were as kids and even who we are now as adults. I know people who say they aren't big on re-reading or re-watching things, even things from their childhood, but I just don't understand it. Whenever I find the time to revisit my favorite childhood stories, I feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia.
When I pick up an old favorite book, I am remembering a time in my life where I enjoyed these types of stories. Even if reading the books fills me with a simultaneous sense of, "oh God why," I still find myself full of nostalgia. For example, years ago I loved reading the Mortal Instruments books, which are admittedly horrible stories. Currently, I love watching the Shadowhunters series, which is the much better book-to-screen adaptation of these books. Even just the show gives me that same feeling of when I first curled up and read those books. After the show's first season, I decided to reread the books. It was so great to read those stories I used to love.
For my birthday, I received the Percy Jackson and the Olympians boxset from my Grammy and Poppy. I was over the moon. I still love these books with no shame and am still a giant Greek mythology nerd. I immediately began rereading them and was taken back to a time where reading was my only escape from the world (middle school). I can't wait to fill my future classroom with books like this to show my students how fun reading can be.
Books like The Series of Unfortunate Events shaped my darker sense of humor. Stories like Harry Potter shaped my sense of wonder and hope. Every time I sit down to watch a Disney movie, new or old, I can't help but sing along with a smile on my face.
My challenge to everyone is this: try taking time to revisit your childhood. Watch your favorite Disney movie. Read that children's book. Listen to a 90's bop. Buy a Putt Putt game on Steam. There's a certain peace that nostalgia can bring you. It's finals week, treat yourself to childhood.
