There’s an old Schopenhauer-attributed quote that notes that we buy books but can’t also buy the time to read them. Every December I wonder if I will ever make a dent in the inventory of books I have obtained (through purchase or gift) but have yet to read. The lot includes How to Swim with Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive and Lorrie Moore’s Self-Help. If I were a betting person, I’d lay odds on the latter better than the former.

I’m not ashamed of this situation. I think that cooking, cleaning, crafting, and The Nightly Show are more productive uses of my personal time than reading a used book I bought as mental broccoli, but the potential benefit of that brain bran nags at me.

How about you? Do you have a top three list of books you own but have yet to read? It could be print or e-book—doesn’t matter. It’s okay. You’re safe to share here.