I mentioned recently that I really struggled to read this year. My ratio of books checked out from the library to books actually read is EMBARRASSING. In 2015 I want to get back to it, but I feel a little out of practice — you know what I mean?
I was hoping if you are a reader (and I am using that term very broadely to describe all people who read books for pleasure — there are no “number of books read” pre-requisites or anything) that you would do me a solid and answer the following questions just for fun:
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
7. Any other helpful advice, I’m all ears!
*****
You are not being graded on this I promise, I’m just curious how you all are getting it done. š Thanks, friends!
I read 12-15 books a year in a good year. I get many recs off social media and from there when I put the book on a What To Read amazon wish list, I see what other books are recommended from that book. I still love actual paper books but often buy the kindle version because I use that when traveling. I mostly read before bed and on weekends.
Garrett is always hounding me to put things on my Amazon Wish List (I mostly just “add to cart” and then “save for later” when I want to make a purchase which is so super lame, I know. But I completely overlooked the benefit of amazon algorithms recommending books. Cool! Thanks for the tip.
I’ve had reading on my mind, so I’ll play!
1. I’m trying to make it a practice to read a little bit every night – but I’ve also been known to stay on the couch all (weekend) day to read.
2. I do set goals around reading, and then it feels too much like homework – so I’m going to fly by the seat of my pants this year.
3. GoodReads, and bloggers (especially Modern Mrs. Darcy)
4. Both. I pay for a membership to the big library in a neighboring town. I start there when I’m looking for a book. I do buy a lot of books, and I normally try to buy used.
5. I have a Nook (probably one of the original models). I also use the Kindle app on my phone/computer. I’ll pick up inexpensive ebooks, and I also download ebooks to review from NetGalley.
6. I’m terrible at keeping track!
7. The one piece of advice that I’m trying to follow myself – it’s okay to bail on a book.
That is really good advice. In fact, what killed my reading this year I think was The Goldfinch. I started it and just COULDN’T get into it (it just felt so loooooooong) but I wouldn’t give up on it. Then it had been so long and I was totally out of the habit of even making time to read. I should give myself a 50 page rule or something. š PS – I also love Modern Mrs. Darcy. I’m always impressed by how many books (and good ones) that she is able to finish!
I am a died-in-the-wool reading addict & a recently retired school librarian. I’m having a great time re-discovering books for grown ups! Can’t go to sleep at night without reading. My preference is print and I really, really try to borrow from the library vs buying. I’m a former bookstore employee who “worked for books” until I got a grip on my buying habits. We have fantastic inter-library loan here in NYS. I borrow a Kindle from my sister for travel. Now that I don’t have access to professional sources, I’ve been relying on bestseller lists, GoodReads, my book club… I keep a running list in my planner.
I once challenged myself to read 1,000 non-children’s books. Once that goal was achieved, I quit writing down what I’d read. Wish I hadn’t stopped…
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)
>> Evenings. Weekend mornings when it’s not football season.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?
>> Fly by the seat of my pants, but usually my goal is if I find myself channel surfing or on my 3rd episode of an HGTV show, it’s time to read.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
>> Goodreads.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
>>Buy. We just moved to a new county though, so I plan on checking out their e-lending library once I get my card.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
>> Kindle, exclusively.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
>>I usually try for at least 5 ‘good’ books. I’m at 10+ crappy spy/suspense/Jack Ryan/Jack Reacher books right now.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
>> I keep my Kindle in my purse, that way I never use it and have it handy for sneaking in a few pages while in line at grocery store or waiting for a friend.
3rd episode of HGTV = Read. I mean, I feel like that rule could apply to SO MANY activities in my life. hahahaha
1. Every night in bed – I read until I fall asleep. I also read in the mornings before getting out of bed (if I wake up early).
2. No goals – reading is something I so enjoy so I wouldn’t want to try to box in.
3. Goodreads, social media, I look at books at stores too.
4. Buy
5. Kindle
6. 40ish
7. No advice – sorry!
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc) I read during my lunch break and before bed. I also often read just after waking on weekends if we don’t have plans right away.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? I usually shoot for a book a week, or around 50 books a year (and other than this year, usually reach that amount)
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? Friends, Goodreads, Amazon
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? I use to be completely opposed to libraries and felt like I NEEDED to own my books. But we plan to reduce our dwelling size significantly once our kids are grown, and so I started the process or purging. Which means, more time at the library. And I’ve enjoyed what that has done for my wallet (although some books, I wish I owned after borrowing them).
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Yes, but mostly for library books.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? See above.
7. I suggest just finding 15 minutes a day to read, or set a goal of a certain number of pages a day. And always have your book with you. You’ll be surprised at the number of times you can get that 15 minutes in (doctor’s offices, etc).
I used to pretty consistently read a book a week, so this year’s four books is RIDICULOUS. I am coming to realize though that quitting reading before bed and not being able to give up on books I’m not enjoying seem to be my biggest habit killers. 15 mins a day seems doable. Thanks for the insight!
I completely fell off the wagon, too. I read about a third as many books this year as I did in 2012, the last year I set a reading goal. I spend too much time listening to podcasts š
1. I don’t read at any certain time. If I can get myself to pick up a book I generally read it really fast, devoting a lot of time to reading for a couple days, then going a week or more without reading again.
2. I didn’t really like the feel of a ‘this many books’ reading goal, but I would REALLY like to read at least the books I request from the library! That’s probably my goal for next year.
3. Blogs. Elizabeth (though she isn’t reading as much, either…), Jenna at http://cluelessbuthopeful.blogspot.com/
4. Library. But I find I read more when a book is on my phone, so I do buy ebooks occasionally. I check out library ebooks, too, but the selection isn’t great.
5. Yup! I have a plain e-ink Kindle, but usually use my phone or iPad, just because they’re usually with me.
6. I’m allll over the place. 121 in 2012, 76 in 2013, 47 this year.
7. Not really…
That blog is new to me, thanks!
1. I started a new routine to help with sleep that surprisingly actually brought me back to reading. Super exciting unintentional result. I shut down my computer at 9pm, no matter what. I spend about 10 minutes straightening up the house then get ready for bed. Once I’m in bed I read until I’m sleepy, about 30 minutes. Love that I’ve worked reading back into my daily life AND I’m sleeping better because I’m not on my phone or computer until the second I jump in bed (or even while in bed).
2. No more reading goals. I’m trying very hard not to view my self worth by the crosses off on my to do list / number of goals met per year, so for things like reading I’m just doing it.
4. Library unless it’s nutrition related (future client lending library) or recently pregnancy/baby (I’m purposely reading very few of these and am picky about which ones, so bought them assuming I’ll want to read again for round 2 someday).
5. Only on vacation (bottom of the line kindle that’s 3 years old or my iPad).
Number 2 is the STORY OF MY FREAKING LIFE. Not sure how I will ever overcome that. š
1. I read the most before bed and on my lunch break at work.
2. I’ve tried reading goals before, but they don’t really work for me, for the same reason that I’ve grown to dislike book clubs. I don’t like pleasure reading on a schedule.
3. I get all my book recommendations from Goodreads.
4. I am wholeheartedly a library person. I own lots of books but for some reason once I own it, I feel like, “ehhhh, I could read that anytime” and often don’t get around to those books. But I get excited about new library books! It’s weird, I know.
5. I don’t use an e-reader yet but I’d like to get one, and then I might try Oyster.
6. I usually read around 20-25 books. Let’s just skip over the fact I only read 7 this year, ok?
I’m with ya that doing anything for pleasure on a schedule sort of sucks the fun right out of it. I need to find a good balance between making sure I’m prioritizing reading and setting a down right goal. I’m thinking maybe I’ll pick 10 books I want to make sure I read this year and then let the rest of the books come as they are!
1. For physical books, in the evening before bed or on the weekends. I also listen to audiobooks on CD in the car and on my phone when I work out, do housework, during cooking.
2. Goodreads.com usually allows you to set a goal at the beginning of the year and track as the year goes along. I like to set a goal but I am usually 10-15 books short every year (even when I lower the expectation every year!)
3. Goodreads, People magazine, and other people
4. Library all the way. I usually read/listen to a book in 5-10 days, it would get way too expensive if I had to purchase them!
5. I have a Kindle and I barely use it for reading, I just love real books
6. 2014- 87 books. In years past I usually get a smidge over 100
7. Try audiobooks! they are amazing for making roadtrips less annoying and housework more fun. I find young adult and/or mysteries the best, because if you get distracted from the book for a minute (like while driving) you don’t lose the entire plot
I’m so terrible with audio books, but I’m not super discerning about them so maybe trying YA could help. Never thought of that. Thanks! š
I suck at reading consistently. I need to be super into the book! I’ve been so busy lately that it just hasn’t been on my radar, but now that the holidays are over and it’s freezing outside I may get some reading done. My sister has a huge collection of books so I usually rely on her to recommend something good. Right now I have The Help and Orange is the New Black next on my list!
Ooooh, both of those are so great! I especially loved Orange Is The New Black (Ah, 2010 — when I not only READ books, but I WROTE ABOUT THEM haha: http://hollywouldifshecould.net/2010/10/book-review-orange-is-new-black/ *spoiler free* if you’re interested.)
1. I read every night before going to sleep, at least 30 min. This weekend, I sat down and read a book during the afternoon which is rare. I’d like to do more of that.
2. My unofficial goal is 52 books a year. I have a lovely blank book which sat around forever until I decided to actually, you know, write in it and I list my books by title, author last name, F or fiction, NF for non-fiction and an abbreviation for the language if other than English.
I don’t number the lines and I might count them mid-year. (Yes, I’ve been a librarian…how can you guess?)
3. All over – friends (I am also in a book club), internet, NY Times, New Yorker, NPR, what’s at the library.
4. Library! Our state also has a program where you can borrow e-books. I belong to libraries in two towns.
5. I have a Kindle app. on my tablet and I use that a lot when traveling, but I prefer a book.
6. Looking at my lists that I started in 2010 – 25 in 2010, 22 in 2011, 52 in 2012 (yay me!), 48 in 2013 and so far 50 in 2014. I credit keeping a list with increasing my reading. For me, it’s fun.
I freaking LOVE a good list. I used to keep track here on the blog, some years I have it in journals. I agree it’s totally fun to see and encourages reading. I need to bring that back, I think. Thanks!
1. I usually read on my lunch at work – in my car away from everyone! Or if I am waiting for something – Dr. appt, etc. I hardly read at home (um…TV) š
2. No goal, but I always have the book I’m reading and make sure to have the next one ready – I hate getting caught with my pants down (aka, no book)
3. GoodReads
4. Library 100% – I love the queue and my husband picks up my books for me since he gets off earlier than I do. I Hate buying books now – why?? I don’t mind waiting in line for the big ones.
5. No – haven’t joined the eReader club yet.
6. Probably 20-30. GoodReads just emailed me about my books this year, but some of them were ones I didn’t finish because I didn’t like them.
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)
I read every night before bed and sometimes on weekend mornings before I get up. Also, if I have a bad night and wake up in the middle of the night, I sometimes read then, too. I also read during breakfast and lunch if I’m eating by myself. When I worked in an office, I ALWAYS packed my lunch and read during my lunch break.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?
Seat of my pants. Totally. For me, it’s 100% enjoyment with no goals attached.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
The New York Times Book Review and the magazine The Week.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
Guilty of buying because…
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
I’m addicted to my new Kindle. The amount of light adjusts to the room you’re in, so it’s dim when I read in bed at night, which is lovely. I also wear amber goggles when I use it at bedtime. I was committed to print books until I used a Kindle during our 6-week trip to Europe. Now I’m hooked. I use it in the tub and everything. It’s much lighter to hold in bed and I love that I never have to worry about running out of books.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
60ish
I read The Miracle Morning last December and immediately started implementing some of the suggestions, one of which was to read every morning. I used to watch the Today Show but I started waking up early a few days a week and reading a little bit. On other days I would read with my breakfast. On the weekends, this would turn into an hour or more of reading. I read non-fiction in the mornings when I’m most alert and fiction at night before bed. The fiction goes in fits and starts when I find a good book. The non-fiction is daily. I read about 60 books this year, give or take.
I get my recommendations from blogs, Good Reads, my mother and the Amazon recommendations. Sometimes I go to Barnes and Noble and spend a good hour reading the backs of books and making lists. I manage books I plan to read with my Amazon wish list and books I’ve read with a spreadsheet.
I read on my kindle almost exclusively, but I plan to start buying hard copies of books I love to rebuild my library. I gave my cousin’s little girl all of my children’s books for Christmas, and it was physically painful to part with them. I plan to replace them with some of the more artistic versions that have been recently published,
My reading really increased when my library started offering ebooks on Overdrive. I can’t really afford to buy all the books I want to read and having them digitally (for free!) means I can try something and then if I don’t like it I don’t even have to worry about returning it to the library (I’m so lazy). I sometimes find it hard to get to the library but I have no excuses if all I have to do is open my iPad.
I read every evening as part or my winding down to sleep. Gets my mind off the treadmill. Plus I read when I find myself having time to kill like when waiting for a meeting to start.
I don’t do goals. I read for pleasure.
I read on my iPad and get my most of my books free from ManyBooks.net. These are mostly books where the copyright has expired so I live in another time when reading. I do sometimes buy books from Amazon. I read a LOT so would totally blow my budget if I bought all my books. (I’m retired so I get to read more than most people.) I was a library patron before I started reading ebooks. My library has ebooks, too, but I’ll never make my way through all the books on ManyBooks so haven’t even checked to see what my library has.
OK this is going to be embarrassing but let me first qualify this by saying I don’t have a TV! I have a laptop where I watch Netflix, but I cancelled my cable and gave away my TV last year… which explains at least a portion of my insane amount of reading!!
1. When do you do the most reading? I read ever night before bed. It helps transition my brain from day craziness to night (and hopefully sleeping!).
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? No goals. I read because it’s my passion!
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? I like to ask on Facebook and also take recommendations from bloggers I follow. I’ve read a few of your recommendations!
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? I was a committed library person until I got my first Kobo e-Reader. Now I do a combo – some buying (OK a lot of buying) and some taking e-books out of the library.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Kobo Aura. I’m on my thrid e-book. Didn’t think I’d like e-readers but the first time I bought a book while laying in bed – bam I was sold!
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? OK here’s where it gets embarrassing. Since Cyber Monday 2013 I’ve read 87 books on my e-reader PLUS a few actual books. I’ve spent 591.1+ hours reading. Oy vey!
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears! Find authors that you like and read everything they have written. Get hooked on a series. Read about anything you are interested in. Right now I’m reading Charles Montgomery’s Happy City, before I read Brene Brown’s Daring Greatly, and before that everything by an author named Maia Sepp. Whatever strikes my fancy š
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)
Before bed! I’m a night shift nurse so I read in the AM after I get off work, or on nights off while my fiance can’t sleep. I also try to sneak reading in at work here and there if I have downtime.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?
Nothing too complicated. Currently, I am focused on trying to finish the Sword of Truth series because I started it two years ago and never finished but it is SO GOOD. And not something I would have normally picked up.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
Usually word of mouth. I have also tried to read Time Magazine’s top 100 book list, but I just can’t get into all of the classics.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
Buy! I love Half Priced Books (do they have those in California?) Every book is like $1-5 and already a little worn so I don’t feel bad lugging them everywhere. I also do the Kindle app on my iPad/iPhone.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
I use the Kindle app on my iPad/iPhone. iPad if I plan to read somewhere or am at home, and iPhone when I have downtime randomly. It’s super awesome because the Cloud automatically takes you to wherever you were on your other device. Totally a sucker for convenience and not keeping track of bookmarks. But it really has helped me read more since I always have my phone!
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
Wellll I was probably at like 3 due to being in nursing school for 2 years BUT since graduation in May I’ve read like 6 or so already and I am falling in love all over again with reading. Hopefully my stats will be better during my first full year not being a full-time student.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
Clearly I’m working on goals as well. But I have to say I’m a sucker for a good series. Part of the reason I love Sword of Truth is because there is over 10 books so it will be awhile before I have to be sad it’s over.
I use the kindle app on my phone, tablet and ereader. I read everywhere, whenever I can as I always have a book available on whatever device I have in my hand.
I read about a book every 2-4 days. I use a Kindle and get recommendations off Amazon, NY Best Sellers list, and sometimes magazines and/or blogs. I also tend to get self help and cook books hard copy. I routinely read for about 30 minutes before bed. If I can’t get into a book, I move on. I carry my kindle with me, so waiting in line, waiting for appointments, any down time is reading time.
1. When do you do the most reading? –> Weekends, breaks at work, some evenings.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? –> usually seat of pants…3 yrs ago I had a goal to read 40/year and I hit that, so did 50 the next year, found it a bit less enjoyable, but got it done. Since then I just read when I can. I do love lists and goals though, so it is tough to not have something to work towards… Organizing reading lists on Goodreads really amuses me, so I should maybe get back to that for 2015!
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? –> Goodreads, blogs, NY times, Amazon/Chapters(in Canada) recommendations, a friend who is a librarian
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? –> loved the library as a kid, but now love to buy; either on my iphone or real books
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? –> iphone/ipad – ibooks, kindle app, a new-to-me app called overdrive (and a site called tuebl.ca – can sometimes get free books, not sure if it still works…)
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? –> hit or miss here – 20-50 on average, but 2014 was abysmal with less than 10!
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears! – I try not to worry about “what” I read – I’ll read whatever interests me at the moment – YA, quick read fiction (Jack Reacher, Nora Roberts, etc.) and try not too worry too much about “literature”. That sounds terrible, but I read for enjoyment. Sometimes it is Shakespeare, other times Danielle Steele. lol.
This year I’m planning to read more news type stuff – maybe the Economist magazine, history books, etc. I feel like all of the straight fiction isn’t enough.
Love reading all the comments on tips! I’m such a book-nerd at heart! š
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc). I’ve been bad about this goal too! So I have a goal in 2015 to unplug one night a week and read! Also, spend more time on the weekends reading. I have too many good books just staring back at me right now.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? Fly by the seat of my pants, I have too many goals already and reading needs to be fun! (insert Lavar Burton’s voice from Reading Rainbow)
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? Friends, Good Reads, and Amazon.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? I buy books, when they are really good I feel like it’s a trophy and a memory all in one.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Yes and love it for traveling.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? 4
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)
Usually evenings….my husband also brought his playstation upstairs because I signed up for a holistic nutrition course and we thought if I couldn’t watch TV it would encourage me to be more dedicated, but sadly I have just done more unrelated reading haha.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?
No goals. I just read when I feel like it. Generally once I start a book, I have to finish it ASAP because I get totally absorbed. If I don’t get absorbed, I generally move on to another book (that very rarely happens).
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
Friends, my dad…I don’t have any specific sites I look to for recommendations. I have specific authors I love and I work my way through their collections.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
I buy all my books…..if/when hubby and I buy a house, my goal is to have a library of sorts in the house š I actually do re-read most of them years down the road because I forget what happens exactly haha.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
Nope
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
15-30? I don’t really keep count.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
Find characters you like and stick with them š
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc): Evenings, at the laundromat, or on a plane.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? Fly by the seat of my pants! There have been times when I’ve started something and then set it down for MONTHS, and then I’ll grab it when I’m traveling and finish it.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations?
GoodReads, blogs and from friends/family.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books?
I buy most of my books. I’d like to be a library person, but my erratic reading schedule makes that hard. I also like to be able to pass them on to friends/family.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle?
I use the Kindle and Nook apps on my iPad but not for everything. I prefer printed books, but there are times when I’ve got a gift card and I can make $25 go further by buying ebooks.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year?
I just checked GoodReads, and it looks like I average around 6 books/year. There are some years where it’s been 2, but this year I was in the double digits (some of them were graphic novels, but I think that counts).
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
I try not to beat myself up about it if I haven’t read much. And I try to pick stuff I’m pretty sure I’ll like because there’s a better chance I’ll finish it. I’m usually reading for fun, so I just pick what I like and try not to worry if I’m reading too much of one genre or not.
I read before bed, on the weekends and when my husband is watching something on tv that I am not interested in. I also read almost non-stop on vacation.
I don’t count and really try not to keep track. I don’t need to feel pressure about reading. I track what I eat, when I workout, the number of hours I work (billable hours, ugh) . . . I really don’t need to add more.
That said, I would guess that I read about 50 books this year.
By reading so much, I start to realize what I like and what I don’t. Unless I am sure I will like it or I have somebody in mind to pass the book along to, I have started using the library exclusively. Our library has a wonderful e-loan program so I don’t have to leave my couch. I also check out paper books if the waiting list is shorter or if it isn’t available electronically. The key for me is to only check-out one book at a time. If I have too many books waiting for me, I don’t read anything.
I am trying to be better about allowing myself to quit a book. It’s very hard. I probably quit 2 books this year but I should have quit several more.
I keep a running list of books to read in the notes section of my phone. I add to it whenever I hear of something I might like from a friend, on NPR or from a blog. If none of the books on my list are available, I will google “the best books of 2006” or 2007, etc. That way the chances of the book being good but also being available are quite high.
As a mom, I only have the brainspace to read in bed right before falling asleep, but I do listen to a LOT of audiobooks – mostly while exercising and walking as transportation, but also in the car on my work commute. Love them!
Goodreads says I read 34 books this year (including books I read to my son) + two I’m in the middle of (The Bone Clocks and The Signature of All Things).
My favorite subject-books and reading!!
1. I do most of my reading at night, but it really depends on how into the book I am. I have been known to read while brushing my teeth and blow drying my hair! I’m currently unemployed, so I have lots of time to read.
2. Reading and books are my passion, so I have never set a goal, I would rather read than do almost anything else.
3. I get recommendations from friends, amazon, I read every book review I come across. I used to work at Borders and had access to Publishers Weekly magazine-what a great source. You can still get some info free from them online, so I like to read their reviews. When I find an author I like, I read every book they’ve written-so that keeps me occupied. I also go to bookstores and browse. I belong to a book club and they are a great source of recommendations.
4. I am a big library goer. I will go to B&N-find books I am interested in, and then come home and go to my library website, to put books on hold. I buy books in hardcover by my favorite authors-I want to support them. I have lots of favorite authors, so I do buy plenty of books. We have a really good used bookstore in town, and I am able to turn in my old books for credit, and bring home more.
5. I do have a kindle, and I probably use it for 20% of my reading. I find real comfort and satisfaction in physical books, but you can’t argue with the convenience of the ereader. It is great for instant gratification-like if you read the first book in a series, you love it-voila you can download the rest of the books! Great to travel with, I no longer have to tote 6 books with me. I always bring one though, just in case š
6. I probably average 2-3 books per week-so over a hundred or more in a year.
7. Reading is an absolute pleasure for me-if a book doesn’t grab me in the first 50 pages-I have no problem setting it aside. Life is too short, and there are too many good books out there-to waste time on a book I don’t enjoy. I think people can get caught up on the “I should finish this…”, and unless you are going to be tested on it-set is aside for something else. Also-other people have mentioned this, but always have a book or your ereader with you-in the car, in your purse-you never know when you might have time to read.
I love reading all the comments!
1. Most of my reading takes place during my commute. I’m on a train for 45 minutes twice a day. I also read on weekend mornings when the dogs get me up early.
2. For the past couple of years I’ve set specific reading goals on goodreads of 100 books a year. I’ve only achieved that once.
3. I am in 2 book clubs so get a lot of recommendations there. My mom is also a big reader so adds suggestions. I will also google best reading lists to get ideas.
4. I love the library. With the amount I read I am so grateful that such an awesome institution exists. I constantly have items on hold and very rarely mind waiting for a book.
5. Actual books are my preference but I love the convenience of my kindle (especially for commuting when I’ m reading a 500 page book). My library lends ebooks so I always have books on hold that way as well.
6. I read about 65 books a year. Without my commute I would not hit that number, but I have always loved to read so I always have a book on the go – I feel ‘off’ if I am not reading something. I used to have to read before I could fall asleep but have dropped that habit in the last couple of years.
7. Read what you enjoy – I absolutely love the feeling I get when I start a book and know in the first few pages that I am already sucked into the story…then I can’t wait to get back to the book. I read almost anything and adore the YA genre because that is some seriously good and more importantly entertaining stuff right there. I suffered through the Goldfinch and still regret it -a waste of many days of my life.
1 – I always read before bed so this is my most consistent reading time. How long depends on how tired I am! Days I’m off work I will frequently read in bed while my husband sleeps in first thing in the morning. Also, if he’s on the computer we like to be in the same room so I’ll read then too. We don’t have a TV so to veg it’s either FB,a book or recipe planning š
2- I have no reading goals whatsoever. I download as many books as I think I’ll read and reserve books and be surprised and make extra time when I get the email “the book you requested in is”
3 – I keep track of recommendations from others, but mostly I look up favourite authors on my library lending site and it gives recommendations based on my choices. Also, this woman I work with is a speed reader and reads approx 12 books per week so she’s always good for a recommendation.
4/5 – I have a Kobo Vox and I used this almost exclusively for a couple of years. Our library is part of the Overdrive app and so you just log in and can borrow whenever! This past year I downloaded the app to my smartphone and am forever changed! It means I can always have a new book whenever I want. I just downloaded the Kindle app to my phone too which is great but I don’t tend to buy many books anymore,either print or e-books as compared to my old tendencies.
6 – I have no idea… somewhere between 1-8 per month depending on the month,what I’m doing, etc…
7 – I like print books better before bed. I just downloaded the blue light filter app for my phone so we’ll see if it’s the blue light or the books keeping me reading longer when I use it š I have tons of books that I have bought and haven’t read yet and don’t stress. Also, I am over reading books that are depressing. I appreciate things that make you think, but life is hard enough that usually I want something light and fluffy and I have no shame for that!
PS I like when you post. I don’t think I’ve ever commented before but I definitely missed your thoughts on life when you were “gone”.
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc) – I do a little bit all day. Even when I had a regular job, I would read while I ate my lunch. It always felt better than shooting the shit with co-workers.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? Sometimes I set goal, but mostly I fly by the seat of my pants. I find I actually read MORE when it is loosey goosey.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? I love hearing what my friends are reading. I also get lots of recommendations from pinterest.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? Me and the Library are very close friends.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Yes for travel.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? 30-50
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears! I set a daily goal of reading for 30 minutes for pleasure some time during the day that isn’t at bedtime. And I read every night before bed. “Stealing” time in the middle of the day to read – especially a good novel makes me feel very indulgent and rich with time and luxury.
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc)–at bed/in bed and in kids’ beds when I’m rubbing their backs. When I’m doing something else (ie waiting for something)
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants?–set a goal in 2012 and tracked it on goodreads. This got me back into reading and haven’t set a goal since.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? Goodreads, blogs (Swistle.com sometimes), podcasts, my niece for YA
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? 95% library, mostly ebooks and some audiobooks from the library. Selection isn’t great but you can reserve and get them eventually. A very few paper library books. I buy some trashy ebooks.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Kindle and 3M Library apps on my phone.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? This year only 23 per goodreads but I only tracked through August at which point I started reading total smut which I don’t always track on goodreads š So probably about 30ish. That included some very short non fiction and a good bit of YA.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears!
I know some folks think reading on the phone is terrible but I always have my phone with me and it’s lit so I can read in bed without bothering the kids/hubby too much and i can download books instantly for free so…. what’s not to love?
Also, e audiobooks while working out/jogging. free from the library!
Bookmarking this page ā these comments are wonderful!!
1. When do you do the most reading? I read on public transit when I don’t walk to work. I read at night before bed. I read on the sofa while my partner is watching his basketball team (ie: not my team) – this is actually a great time for me to read, and I can read even with the game on in the background. I also read on the weekend, usually for a few hours at a time.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? I set a goal on Goodreads every year (it used to be a spreadsheet). I also will have goals that are based on lists: ie: the BBC Big Read list, and this year I attempted to read a good percentage of the Man Booker Long List.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? From a friend, the NYTimes, and a few of the literary prize nominations.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? Library. I purchase cookbooks, and don’t have room for any others. I also heavily make use of the library for lending of ebooks and audiobooks.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? Yep. This is the easiest way for me to read on the go. I also read on my phone. I still might take around a physical book here and there, but usually those are reserved for the nightstand.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? Between 30 and 70.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears! I like listening to audiobooks on my walks. Definitely helps increase my pure volume of reading. I also like listening to audiobooks in the bath (with the phone a safe distance from the tub).
If I’m feeling really stuck (be it with a huge book, a book I don’t like, or just not wanting to read, I will: a) read a **SHORT** (re: 275 pages or less) non-fiction book. Or, I will read a Young Adult/Kids book that I can breeze through. (Wonder was one of my favorites this year! As was Howl’s Moving Castle).
1. I take public transportation to work. It’s about a 17 minute train ride and a 10 minute shuttle ride, but it adds up to an hour of reading a day. I read at night after dinner and things are cleaned up, and I try to read at least an an hour each day on weekends/holidays. I was a big reader as a kid, and I’m finally back to it. Uninstalling Candy Crush Saga helped, too.
2. No goals. What killed my love of reading I had as a kid were the assigned readings in school and college. Pleasure reading is for my own pleasure and nothing more. I don’t do reading challenges, either. I love when others do, though.
3. I’m a fan of the Book Riot site/blog. I also grab recommendations from Goodreads and other bloggers.
4-5 I have a Nook SimpleTouch with Glow that I keep in my bag. Once I got into my library’s Overdrive system, I started borrowing ebooks like it was my job! I love the ereader because I don’t have to worry about dropping, bending, losing, or spilling coffee on an actual book. Plus, no more lost bookmarks! If I love a book to death after reading the electronic version, I’ll buy it in print to reread it later. Borrowing the ebooks incents me to read different books, because I’m not putting out the money for them.
I use the Luzme website to sync with my Goodreads “to read” list and email me price drops in ebooks. Unfortunately, the B&N store is usually the most expensive of the online bookstores, so I downloaded the Calibre software that lets me buy books from Amazon, Apple or Kobo and convert them so I can read it on my nook.
6. It’s increasing. The more I read, the more I want to. I read 16 books in both of 2011 and 2012, 29 in 2013 and 44 in 2014.
7. The overdrive/calibre/luzme processes intimidated me at first, and I (used to) consider myself techy. But there are a bunch of youtube videos and/or written tutorials on how to do it all.
Oh, you’re soliciting me for my OPINIONS?! Well since you asked…
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc) I mostly read at night before bed, but occasionally if I don’t walk at lunch, then I’ll read a bit then.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? I mostly fly by the seat of my pants, but my rule of thumb is ABR (Always Be Reading.)
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? Twittah.
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? Library, books that my mom gives me when she’s done reading them.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? I buy cheap books on the Kindle app to read in bed when Chris is asleep, but I don’t do my primary reading from an e-source because I am not a heathen, Holly.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? Last year it was 18 I think. That’s pretty much the high. I would like it to be like 30 or so, but that’s a little ambitious.
1. Evenings, for sure. When I used to work an office job, I’d read during my breaks. I’m a teacher now, so if I’m having a really bad day, I’ll read during my prep as relaxation.
2. I used to have reading goals but realized that they only succeeded in making me feel like crap. The only goal that I have this year is that when I start a book, I have to finish it before I start another. I am a serial book-starter but not finisher. Ugh.
3. Friends and Amazon.
4. Both. I’ve definitely left the library with a stack of books that I never end up actually reading. Fraud!
5. Yes and no. I prefer paper, but Kindle is nice for some books.
6. Every year has been different. I’m at a serious low now though – probably around 4 or 5?
7. Book clubs are good at forcing you to read in a timely manner. Also: http://whatshouldireadnext.com/ This website gives you recommendations based off of previous books.
I’d love if you could write a follow-up post with all of the cool advice!
1. When do you do the most reading? (Mornings, evenings, weekends only, etc) lunchbreaks at work, right when I get home and the kids are playing but before dinner prep, while I’m waiting for water to boil during dinner prep, in the car when my husband is driving … pretty much any time I have a spare minute.
2. Do you have reading goals or do you just fly by the seat of your pants? I go back and forth. I had a goal for 2012-2013, but I was unhappy with my reading so I gave myself leeway to do all re-reading I wanted to in 2014 and read more than ever before.
3. Where is your favorite place to get book recommendations? twitter, other reading friends, NPR
4. Are you a library person or do you buy most of your books? library, all the way. There are a couple favorite authors who I can’t get at the library and I’ll buy those, but otherwise between the actual library and Overdrive, I’m all about borrowing.
5. Do you use an eReader/Kindle? I use my ipad. I had a Nook, but I stopped using it when I got my ipad and eventually I gave it to a friend.
6. How many books, on average, do you read every year? probably 100. I read 155 this year, and of that 99 were new and 56 were rereads.
7. Any other helpful advice, Iām all ears! Read what you like. Don’t worry about if other people would care what you’re reading. Find a style, a genre, whatever and go crazy. Also, if you are really not enjoying a book, give it another 20 pages and then trash it. Life’s too short for bad books.