For passionate readers, choosing the next book to read can be as exciting—and sometimes as difficult—as the act of reading itself. With so many amazing books out there, finding the one that matches your mood, interests, or even a specific theme you’re curious about can be overwhelming. Whether you have a towering to-be-read pile or you’re just feeling indecisive, taking a moment to consider a few key strategies can help you make a satisfying choice.
If you’re looking to broaden your reading horizons or just hoping to find a story that perfectly suits your tastes, having some go-to methods can make the process much easier and more enjoyable. Here are some brilliant ways to choose your next book to read, so you can keep your reading life fun, purposeful, and perfectly suited to you.
1. Reflect on Your Mood or Interests
One of the simplest ways to choose your next book to read is to think about your current mood or interests. Are you in the mood for an uplifting story, a thought-provoking piece, or a gripping thriller? Letting your feelings guide you can lead you to books that resonate with you more deeply. For example, if you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, you might choose a classic novel, or if you’re in need of a laugh, a witty, light-hearted novel might be the way to go.
This approach works particularly well if you’re feeling indecisive because it narrows down your options and brings you closer to a book that aligns with how you’re feeling. By matching your book to your mood, you’re likely to have a more fulfilling reading experience.
2. Check Out Recommendations from Communities
Another great way to choose your next book to read is to tap into the power of community. Whether it’s friends, family, or an online book club, recommendations from others can introduce you to genres, authors, or themes you might not have considered. Book communities like Goodreads, social media book clubs, or even a quick #BookRecommendation search can reveal countless options.
Recommendations often come with personal insights that can give you a better idea of what to expect. So, if a friend raves about how much a book impacted them, it might be worth picking up. Plus, it’s always nice to chat about books with others, and having a shared reading experience can make the book feel even more special.
3. Pick from Your To-Be-Read (TBR) List
If you have a list of books you’ve been wanting to read, the next choice is closer than you think. Go through your TBR list and see which titles still excite you. Sometimes, a book that’s been on the list for ages suddenly feels right, or maybe you’ll rediscover a title you forgot about that sparks new interest. Picking from your TBR is a fantastic way to whittle down your reading goals and get through those books you once felt eager to read.
Organizing your TBR by genre or by priority can make it even easier to choose. Try categorizing your books by the mood they suit, the genre, or even a theme. This organization can help you find the right match when it’s time to choose your next book to read.
4. Try a Bestseller or Award-Winning Book
Bestsellers and award-winning books are popular for a reason, and diving into one of these well-loved titles can be a great way to get out of a reading slump or try something new. Books that have won literary awards, like the Pulitzer Prize, Booker Prize, or Hugo Award, often offer unique perspectives and high-quality storytelling. Similarly, bestselling lists, like those from The New York Times or Amazon, feature books that resonate with a large audience.
If you’re unsure about a specific genre, a bestseller or award-winner in that genre can be a safe and satisfying place to start. You can feel confident knowing that these books have been widely enjoyed and appreciated by other readers.
5. Follow an Author You Love
If there’s an author whose style or storytelling you really enjoy, why not read more of their work? Following an author’s other books is a wonderful way to choose your next book to read because you’re likely already familiar with their voice and themes. Authors often explore different ideas or genres throughout their careers, and their other works might surprise you.
Following an author’s journey can also lead to a deeper understanding of their themes, growth, and creativity, giving you a richer reading experience. And if they have an upcoming release, even better! You’ll have something to look forward to in your reading lineup.
6. Explore a New Genre
If you’re feeling adventurous, choosing a book in a genre you haven’t read before can open doors to new reading experiences. Exploring a new genre is a great way to shake up your reading habits, as each genre offers unique storytelling styles and themes. For example, if you typically read romance, try out a mystery or sci-fi novel next. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy the change.
Exploring new genres is also a fantastic way to expand your reading comfort zone and discover books you may not have picked up otherwise. You might find a new favorite genre or author along the way!
7. Choose a Book with a Theme That Resonates with You
Books cover just about every theme imaginable, from personal growth and love to resilience and adventure. Choosing a book with a theme that resonates with you personally can be deeply fulfilling. If you’re interested in self-development, try a motivational memoir or a guide on personal growth. Or if you’re passionate about environmental issues, pick up a novel or nonfiction work about nature and conservation.
Books with themes you relate to offer a special connection, making it easier to immerse yourself and feel inspired. Themes can make a book feel particularly meaningful, as they often reflect experiences, values, or dreams that are close to your heart.
8. Use a Reading Challenge or Prompt
Reading challenges are all over the internet, offering prompts to guide you in choosing your next book to read. These prompts could be as simple as “read a book by an author from a different country” or “choose a book with a blue cover.” By following prompts, you’ll be encouraged to try new books and maybe even venture outside of your usual reading patterns.
Reading challenges also bring a sense of accomplishment and structure to your reading journey, making it fun to keep track of your progress. They can be a great way to engage with others in the reading community, too, as many challenges are shared on social media.
9. Read the First Few Pages of Several Books
Sometimes, you need to get a little sample before you commit. Grab a few books you’re interested in, read the first chapter or a few pages of each, and see which one pulls you in. By sampling different books, you’ll get a feel for each author’s style and the story’s tone, making it easier to decide which one you’re most excited to continue.
This method works wonders when you’re torn between several options. Whichever book grabs your attention the most will likely be the best choice for your current reading mood.
Final thoughts
Choosing your next book to read can be an exciting journey in itself. With so many options, these tips can help you find one that feels just right, whether you’re in the mood for a new adventure or a familiar story. Embrace the process, try different methods, and soon you’ll be curled up with a book that feels like it was meant just for you. Happy reading!