We’ve all been in a situation where we’re looking for a good book to read. Whether it’s because we want something to play on the beach, because we need a good book for our vacation, or just because we feel like reading is good for us, we often find ourselves looking at our bookshelves or online looking for a “good match.” The prospect of finding something can be quite intimidating and there are too many things to consider: genre, author, recommendations, price, etc.
This expert guide will explain how to choose the right book for you.
How to Choose the Right Book to Read
1. Read what you like
The first step in choosing the right book is deciding what type of books appeal to you most. Do you like to read nonfiction, fiction, or graphic novels? Do you like thrillers, mysteries, or romance? Do you prefer poetry or plays? Whatever kind of books appeal to you, start by reading those types of books.
2. Consider genres you enjoy
Fantasy and sci-fi are two genres that I enjoy reading a lot. But if I just picked up any random fantasy or sci-fi novel, I know I’d be disappointed because these two genres can sometimes be very hit-or-miss for me personally.
Instead of trying different genres until I hit one that worked for me (which could take forever), I found authors whose work fit my tastes and stuck with them for years at a time until their back catalogs were finished.
This makes it easier to find new books by them (after all, Amazon has good recommendations).
3. Discovering your reading tastes
There are so many things that go into choosing the right book, from pacing to characterization, from storyline to frame, and tone. The first step in choosing your next read is discovering these elements of literature so that you can better decide whether or not a certain book will be right for you.
Pacing. Are you the type who wants a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat? Or are you more comfortable with a book that takes its time? If you’re looking for a page-turner, try thrillers or mysteries. If you’re in the mood for something slower, stick to literary fiction or historical fiction.
Characterization. Do you like protagonists who are flawed but still sympathetic? Or do you prefer characters who are morally upright? If you’re looking for complex, flawed characters, try literary fiction and contemporary fiction. For straightforward characters, try science fiction and fantasy books.
Storyline. Do you prefer stories that have an element of mystery? Or do you prefer books that focus on relationships between people? For mysteries and thrillers, look at crime novels, detective stories, and suspense novels. For character-driven stories, look at literary fiction and contemporary fiction such as romance novels or chick-lit novels.
Frame: How is the story told? Is it written in the first person or third person? Is the frame linear or nonlinear? What perspective does the narrator use? How does this influence how we interpret events?
Tone: How does the author present their message? Is it serious or lighthearted? Does it evoke strong emotions or simply entertain us? What emotions does it evoke in us as readers?
4. Explore all kinds of books
If you’re looking for a new book, it can be tempting to stick with what you know. But don’t limit yourself to just one genre or author. Try reading something that’s completely different from what you usually read.
When you read outside of your comfort zone, it helps you expand your mind and learn new things about yourself and others. And who knows? You might even find a new favorite author.
5. Ask for recommendations
The easiest way to find a good book is through recommendations from friends or family members who have similar tastes in books as you do. If there are certain authors or genres that you like, ask people which ones they think would be worth checking out next.
6. Check out reading lists for inspiration
Reading lists can be a great resource when trying to find a new read. They’ll give you recommendations based on what other people have enjoyed reading before.
This can help narrow down your options so that you don’t have to waste time trying out every single book on Amazon.
7. Participate in a book club
Having to defend your opinions about what’s worth reading can help you find new favorites and learn how to articulate why you like something.
You can also ask other people in your life for recommendations, they might know things about books that you don’t know yet.
8. Shop your bookshelf
If you already have some books that you love, look at them again! You may find that they hold new meanings or insights now that you’ve changed as an individual since you last read them.
9. Read a book based on its cover
Sometimes all it takes is the right cover image or title to grab your attention. You may not know much about the book itself, but if it’s appealing enough, who cares? You’ll find out soon enough whether the story is worth your time or not.
10. Research online reviews and book awards
Many websites offer reviews by experts or other readers who have an interest in certain genres or topics (like science fiction or historical fiction).
You can also look at lists of award winners from organizations like the New York Times Best Seller List or the National Book Award Finalists list (for fiction).
Conclusion
The best book to read is one that meets what you’re looking for in terms of qualities. It’s true that most people don’t get to choose the type of books they want to read. But if you decide on what qualities you want beforehand, it’s easier to find a book that suits your preferences rather than scrambling through numerous pages, titles, and genres.
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