The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Toronto MU chapter.

Winter break is on the horizon, so I finally have free time to make a dent in my TBR (to-be-read) book list.

My friends who aren’t big readers often tell me they wish they could get into reading as a hobby. However, now, with the break fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to pick up a book!

Reading is a great way to relax and take time for yourself. If you want to enjoy reading, here is my guide to becoming a book lover!

Choose a “Goodread”

Becoming a book lover requires the right reading material. A great place to start is Goodreads, a platform to rate and review books, track your progress, and set reading goals.

Once you’ve created an account, you’ll receive recommendations based on your ratings. You can also browse genres and categories based on your interests. Once you’ve found a book you enjoyed, check out the author’s other works or the “readers also enjoyed” recommendations on the site.

Find your favourite format

Every avid reader has their preferred book format, with several options: hardcover, paperback, ebook, or audiobook. I used to think I could only ever read physical books, fearing I would miss the feel of paper and pretty covers. However, this changed when I got a Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition. There are pros and cons to consider for each, which I’ve compiled based on my own experience.

stack of books — Photo by Florencia Viadana from Unsplash

Physical book (hardcover or paperback)

Pros:

Looks nice on a shelf or display.
Collectable editions.
Feel more responsible to finish reading because of the price paid.
No screen = less overall screen time.

Cons:

Can be price-heavy.
It’s thicker and not as easy to take on the go.

Ebooks and audiobooks (specifically Kindle)

Pros:

Typically cheaper than hardcover and paperbacks.
Lightweight and easily portable.
Subscription-based payment options.
Can store hundreds of books in one place.
Read for free on the Kindle app without a Kindle device.
Prime Reading (included in Prime membership): You can borrow up to 10 books from the Prime Reading library.

Cons:

Can’t display covers on a bookshelf.
Adds to screen time if reading on a phone, tablet, or computer.
Buying a Kindle/e-reader is expensive.
The Prime Reading Library has a limited selection.

Create the perfect reading environment

Once you have your book, get comfortable with a cozy blanket, a hot drink, and your favourite candle. Put your phone on “do not disturb” to minimize distractions and create a relaxing environment just for you and your book! You can also bring your book to a cafe or library to see if reading in a different setting helps motivate you. It also provides aesthetic content for your Instagram story!

Add reading to your daily routine

I like to read before I fall asleep, to reduce screentime before bed, and to relax and wind down from the day. Consistently reading each day, even just for 20 minutes, is a great way to plan time for yourself after an exhausting day.

Tracking my progress on the Goodreads app encourages me to keep up with my reading routine. You can update your progress after each reading session and set yearly reading challenge goals. Tracking my progress and logging the books I’ve read has motivated me to beat my goal from the previous year, reading more books than ever!