I don’t know about you, but I am not the best at keeping my New Year’s resolutions. There is something about the excitement of a new year that causes me to severely overestimate just how much I can get done in twelve months. As a bookworm in university, I also tend to overestimate how many books I can read in one year as well. Right around this time of year is when I and other bookworms look at our Goodreads reading goal and have the realization that we are way behind.
For those of you who don’t know, Goodreads is an app and website used to keep track of books you are reading, have already read, and plan to read. Goodreads allows users to do a variety of things, such as create their own virtual bookshelves, give books ratings on a 5-star scale, and leave book reviews. Like any other social media platform, one can follow friends and see each other’s book-related updates. It’s also a great resource for finding new books to read. Basically, it’s social media for people who like to read.
Another one of Goodreads’ great features is the yearly reading challenge users can set up for themselves. Users choose a number of books they plan to read for the year and it keeps track of these books. At the end of year, Goodreads gives users an overview of all the books they’ve read. This includes statistics on the number of pages read as well as the shortest and longest book read. Goodreads even gives you book recommendations after each book you read, bringing you closer and closer to your reading goal.
So now that we are all on the same page (pun kind of intended), here are some of my tips for trying to reach your reading goal:
1. Listen to Audiobooks
Who says audio books aren’t real books? Audiobooks are perfect for people who don’t always have the time to sit down and read for a couple of hours. Audiobooks are a multitasker’s best friend. I like to listen to audiobooks during my commutes to school but they can also be listened to while cooking, doing laundry, or going to the gym. Really, the possibilities are endless.
My recommendation: The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater (available on Spotify)
2. Read Poetry Books
Poetry often gets hated on, but it can be some of the most thoughtful and beautiful literature you’ll ever read. Plus, there’s no denying that usually there’s a smaller word count for poetry books compared to novels, meaning they’re quicker to read. Sometimes less is more; you can learn a lot from poetry. So maybe take a break from reading the big plot-filled books and try some quiet introspection instead.
My recommendation: The Witch Burns in This One by Amanda Lovelace
3. Read Graphic Novels
Who doesn’t love looking at pretty pictures? Graphic novels offer readers a unique experience where stories are supplemented by visual components. These illustrations can often convey messages words can’t. Plus, they’re easy and quick to read, perfect for getting ahead on your reading goal.
My recommendation: Heartstopper by Alice Oseman.
4. Adjust Your Reading Goals
If worse comes to worst and you just can’t reach that goal of 50 books in a year, that’s okay. There’s certainly no judgement from me. Adjusting your goal on Goodreads is super easy and can be done at any time. You should be proud of what you have already accomplished and keep reading even if you don’t reach this goal.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and pick up a couple new books.
Happy reading everyone!