Another year, another Katrina’s Reading List. For those not yet aware of the fact, reading is my superpower. I read, on average, 65 published books a year (I keep score!) and numerous reports, journal articles, and non-book publications. You’ll find some of this content surfacing in my articles. However, I read for pleasure as well as for work, as evidenced by the Reading Lists I share with you every year. Here are some tips I use to curate my reading list.

Consult lists

Award Lists

A rapid way to find a likely book is to use a reliable booklist as a source.

There are many award competitions for books, covering every category. I find the finalists and winners of major awards like the Pulitzer or Booker Prizes to be reliable sources. I’ll dip into specialty awards like the Hugo and Nebula (for science fiction/fantasy) or the Edgar (for mystery) as well. Organizations like Phi Beta Kappa make awards for books in history, natural science, and philosophy. Even awards lists for young readers, like the Newbury and Caldecott Medals, have excellent and often quick-to-read titles.

Bestseller Lists

I recently learned there are three major bestseller lists: Amazon, which ranks by (Amazon only) sales or reader volume; the New York Times, which is a highly curated list “intended to reflect what to reflect what individual consumers are buying across the country” [1]; and USA Today, which is based purely on sales figures of books in both print and electronic format. You may not choose many books from this list, but knowing which ones are popular right now is great data for conversations with other book lovers (see below).

Literary magazines and book reviews

Keeping an eye on reputable literary magazines or book review publications can lead you to discover critically acclaimed or thought-provoking titles. Magazines like The New York Review of Books or Bookmarks regularly feature insightful reviews and literary discussions. Newspapers with wide circulation like The Guardian or Wall Street Journal have book reviews and lists tailored to their readership. If you frequently read a periodical, check it for such a list.

Browse Online

Engaging with fellow readers can offer insights into hidden gems. This is easier than ever with the many online tools available.

Online Book Communities

Joining online book communities like Goodreads or LibraryThing can greatly expand your search range or focus it to a few preferred topics. These platforms often have newsletter updates, user reviews, ratings, and personalized recommendations based on your reading history. One of my favorite online communities is BookBub, which offers regular discounts on books in your favorite categories.

Book Blogs and Video Channels

Many avid readers and literary enthusiasts share their thoughts on books through blogs or video content channels. Booktube is the sub-community on YouTube focused on books, with much of the content on Young Adult literature [2]. These content channels are often the product of outsiders to the book industry and can introduce you to diverse genres and titles that may not be in the mainstream spotlight.

Social Media Platforms

Twitter, Instagram, and even TikTok have vibrant book communities. You can follow authors, publishers, and fellow readers to stay updated on the latest releases and book discussions. Hashtags related to specific genres or reading challenges can also be fruitful in discovering new books.

Try a Book Event

The next level of engagement is a group event, which may be online or in-person.

Book podcasts

Tune into podcasts that discuss literature and recommend books.  This is a great way to connect with the reader community if you have a commute or tasks that keep your hands busy but you’re your mind needs engagement. Podcasts like “What Should I Read Next?” [3] or “The Book Review”[4] by The New York Times feature engaging conversations about various genres and authors, offering valuable insights into potential reads. Alice Orr published a 10-best list of book podcasts last December that’s worth a look [5].

Local book events and author talks

Attend book signings, author talks, or literary events in your area. Local bookstores, libraries, colleges or universities, and cultural institutions often host such events, providing opportunities to interact with authors, discover new releases, and get signed copies of books. Plus, you can network with others interested in reading.

Book clubs

Additionally, joining a book club allows you to explore titles collectively, gaining diverse perspectives on the books you read. Clubs are available online or in person and cover a range of age groups and interests. You can also find them via your local bookstore or library.

Ask Others

This tips category has you engaging with others In Real Life to find books.

Bookstore Staff Picks and Reviews

Local bookstores often have sections featuring staff picks or recommendations. Booksellers know various genres and may suggest hidden gems that align with your preferences. Don’t hesitate to ask for their suggestions based on your interests. A bookstore is also a great place to get lost for an hour or two of reading, and it is particularly pleasant if they have a café in-store.

Library Recommendations

If you have not already followed my earlier advice to get a library card, don’t wait to correct the situation. Your local library will have many resources to help you find new reading material. You can frequently find online tools that might otherwise cost you a paid subscription. Furthermore, librarians can provide personalized recommendations based on your interests, and your library may publish newsletters with reading lists. Libraries are also great places to find free author events (see above).

Ask Others

Asking people what they are reading is an excellent way to break the ice at networking events. Be ready to share your latest finds in return. I’ve also used this question successfully when interviewing (on both sides of the table). It’s a good way to help others relax and share a bit of what makes them unique as a colleague.

Mix it Up

Regularly changing what we read helps challenge our brain and be ready for new thoughts and opportunities. Here are some ways to think differently about selecting your next book.

Book subscription services

An old-school way to diversify your reading is using book subscription services. An example is Book of the Month, which curates a selection of new releases each month in both physical and audio formats. These services often tailor book choices to your preferences, providing a convenient way to explore titles you might not encounter otherwise. You also get to enjoy a special delivery just for you on a regular schedule.

Book-to-film adaptations

I have mixed feelings about books that have been adapted into films or TV series. Sometimes when I like a book, the adaptation is disappointing. More frequently, if I like the adaptation, I enjoy the book even more. Consider reading the source material if you enjoyed a particular movie or show. This can lead you to discover fantastic books that might not have crossed your radar otherwise.

There are many reasons to read, including for information, self-improvement, relaxation, or entertainment. Whether you are exploring other realities or investigating problem solutions, I hope you find these tips useful in expanding your book list. May your reading bring you as much enjoyment as mine does!

References

[1] Sophie Vershbow, “The Murky Path To Becoming a New York Times Best Seller.” Esquire, December 9, 2022. Accessed January 11, 2024. https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/books/a42189320/the-new-york-times-best-seller-lists-explained/

[2] “Booktube,” Wikipedia. Accessed January 11, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BookTube

[3] https://modernmrsdarcy.com/what-should-i-read-next/

[4] https://www.nytimes.com/column/book-review-podcast

[5] Alice Orr, The 10 Best Book Podcasts. Accessed January 11, 2024. https://podcastreview.org/list/best-book-podcasts/