The Power of Reading: Unlocking Your To-Read List with 12 Bookish Tips
Escape the Monotony: For many of us, the local library was a sanctuary during our suburban childhoods. I fondly remember borrowing stacks of well-loved hardcovers by authors like Beverly Cleary and Alvin Schwartz. However, as I grew older, social media took over, and my reading habits waned.
A Lonely College Student's Journey: In 2021, amidst the solitude of the Covid-19 pandemic, I sought new ways to fill my time. That's when I discovered the Kindle, and my reading journey took a turn for the better.
Beyond the Kindle: While the Kindle has been a game-changer, there are other strategies that have helped me become a dedicated reader. Whether you're a busy professional or a student, these tips can help you achieve your reading goals. Here are 12 of my favorite ways to read more and enjoy every moment of it, including a free and legitimate way to access new releases.
My Reading Journey:
Amazon Kindle: A game-changer for my reading goals, priced at $89.99. I'm a night owl, and the Kindle's soft backlit screen allows me to sneak in a few pages before bed without disturbing anyone.
Papier Reading Journal: A stylish way to track your reading progress, available at Revolve for $32. It provides space for 32 titles, a reading wishlist, and book reviews, making it easy to stay organized.
Book of the Month Subscription: A cost-effective way to get your hands on new hardcover releases for just $5 per month. I love the exclusivity and early access it offers.
Kindle Unlimited Subscription: Perfect for e-reader enthusiasts, offering a free trial and access to 4 million titles, including audiobooks, for $11.99 per month. It's a great way to download multiple titles without breaking the bank.
Creating the Perfect Reading Environment:
Set the Mood: Small changes in your environment can make a big difference. For me, it's about creating a relaxing atmosphere. I love sipping tea, snuggling under a fuzzy blanket, and even lighting a scented candle. These simple pleasures help me associate reading with relaxation, not a chore.
Peppermint Tea: A refreshing beverage to accompany your reading sessions. Available at Walmart for $9.92 for a pack of 4, or $18.85 at Amazon.
Amazon Throw Blanket: A cozy companion for your reading nook, priced at $54.99.
Anthropologie Striped Mug: A stylish mug to hold your tea, available at Anthropologie for $14.
Voluspa Scented Candle: A delightful scent to enhance your reading experience, priced at $16 from Voluspa or Anthropologie.
The Power of Subscriptions:
- Monthly Book Subscription: Think of it as a literary gym membership. The investment holds you accountable and keeps you engaged. I've enjoyed Book of the Month, which offers a new hardcover each month for $17.99. It's a cost-effective way to indulge in the joy of a crisp new hardcover.
Reading on the Go:
- Read or Listen on the Move: Find a medium that fits your lifestyle. Whether it's reading on your Kindle during your commute or downloading audiobooks for a long drive, make reading a part of your daily routine.
Making Reading a Challenge:
- Turn it into a Challenge: Even peaceful activities like reading can benefit from a competitive edge. I participate in Goodreads' annual challenge, where I track my goals alongside other readers. It's a fun way to stay motivated and replace mindless scrolling with reading sessions.
Planning and Tracking Your Reading Journey:
- Plan Your Reading List: Goodreads is a great tool for organization. Add books to your 'to be read' list and plan your monthly reading goals. Hold books at your library and download titles to your Kindle for easy access.
- Channel Your Inner Book Critic: Write mini reviews and rate books on Goodreads. It's a fun way to engage with the books you read and connect more deeply with the stories.
- Join a Book Club: Book clubs are a great way to connect with fellow readers and hold yourself accountable. You can find local book clubs on Eventbrite or join virtual options on social reading platforms like Fable.
- Attend Book Events: If you're a fan of a particular author, consider attending book signings or panel discussions. It's a great way to engage with the literary community and discover new books.
- Put Your Phone Away: Create a tech-free, calming space when you have some downtime. It's easier said than done, but putting your phone out of reach can help you focus on your reading.
Bonus Tip: Borrow Online from Your Local Library:
Libby is an online book database that connects to your local library's catalog. You can download books directly to your smartphone or e-reader, saving you money on book purchases. With features like 'smart tag' notifications, you can be the first to know when a new release is available at your library.
What's on the Filter Team's Shelves?
- Play Nice by Rachel Harrison: A horror novel following a stylist and influencer's decision to remodel her mother's haunted house. Available at Walmart for $23.29 or Amazon for $23.49.
- Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston: A thrilling January pick from Book of the Month. Available from $5 with a subscription or $20.98 at Amazon.
- Herculine by Grace Byron: A novel about a woman's escape from New York City to an all-trans commune in Indiana. Available at Amazon for $24.36 or Barnes & Noble for $25.
- The Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell: A depiction of the clash between divergent schools of thought during World War II. Available at Walmart for $9.78 or Amazon for $13.02.
So, there you have it! With these 12 bookish tips, you can unlock your to-read list and discover the joy of reading. Whether it's setting the mood, joining a book club, or finding the perfect subscription, reading can be a transformative experience. Happy reading, and don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments!
