Your Ultimate Book Checklist: Because Reading Shouldn't Just be a Hobby

Let’s face it, folks! We live in a world where the average person claims to have read an astonishing 27 books a year—but how many people are actually reading or finishing those books? In this digital age, between TikTok videos and Instagram reels, our attention spans are shorter than a goldfish’s! So today, I’m bringing you the ultimate book checklist that'll help you navigate the wild jungle of books out there and finally, FINALLY, get you reading like the literary beast you were meant to be!

1. Set Your Reading Goals

First things first: What do you want to achieve by reading? Are you trying to sound smart at parties? Impress that cute librarian? Or are you on a quest to enhance your vocabulary to insult your friends more creatively? Jokes aside, setting clear goals can keep you focused and motivated.

2. Genre Exploration

Life is too short to stick to just one genre. Spice it up! From romance to horror, science fiction to memoirs, your book checklist should encourage you to explore different realms. You never know, you might just discover that you love reading about existential crises while cuddled up with a plush unicorn (don’t judge!).

3. Book Recommendations

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry! Ask friends, family, or, heck, even your cat for recommendations. But be warned: for every Harry Potter, there's a Twilight. So choose wisely! Use platforms like Goodreads to find highly-rated books or check out blogs dedicated to book reviews. That’s where the real magic happens!

4. Read Reviews

Before you dive into a book, read reviews. If a book has more mixed reviews than a reality TV show, it might be time to reconsider. But hey, if it’s a guilty pleasure, grab your popcorn and get to reading! And who knows? You might find yourself writing a passionate love letter to that book on your own blog someday.

5. Make a Reading List

Create a list of books you want to read. This is your book checklist! Check things off as you go—it’s oddly satisfying and helps you see your progress. Consider adding books that are getting buzz on social media, or that have been turned into movies (because who doesn’t love a cinematic adaptation?).

6. Join a Book Club

Find a community! Book clubs are like Tinder for books—swipe right on titles and left on bad recommendations. Plus, discussing books with others can help deepen your understanding and put your reading into context. And let’s be honest, nothing beats a good bookish debate over who is the ultimate villain!

7. Set Aside Time to Read

Make reading a part of your daily routine. Whether it's sipping coffee on a lazy Sunday morning or sneaking in chapters during your lunch break, dedicate time to read. Remember, even if it’s just 10 pages a day, it adds up. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can cross off titles on your book checklist.

8. Avoid Distractions

This is a tough one, but it’s crucial. Turn off the notifications, hide your phone (or better yet, leave it in another room), and dive into your book. Trust me, those cat videos can wait. Nothing ruins a reading flow like the constant ding of social media alerts!

9. Embrace the Art of DNF (Did Not Finish)

If a book isn’t doing it for you, toss it aside like yesterday’s pizza! Life is too short to suffer through a boring read. Your book checklist is meant to bring you joy, not to become a chore that makes you dread reading.

10. Celebrate Your Achievements

When you complete a book, celebrate it! Whether it’s a mini dance party or treating yourself to a new book (because let’s be real, you can’t have too many), reward yourself for your reading accomplishments. You deserve it!

So, there you have it! Your ultimate book checklist to help you embark on your reading journey. Remember, in the world of literature, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Every book you read adds a new layer to your understanding of the world, and who knows, you might even find the love of your life through a shared passion for books (or at least a fun conversation starter). Happy reading!

Rachel Foster, Blog Writer, antiland Team