If I’m not reading something, I’m restless, probably eating ice cream directly from the fridge. So, having a stack of books is important to me.
My mom used to be my best source for good reading. She and I shared similar tastes. Rarely did we disagree on a book. Unfortunately I lost her late last year. Now, I have to find my books on my own. This is a scary prospect for someone who must have a book at the ready.
Here are some of my tips for finding new books to read:
Most of my friends are readers. Of course some read genres that I don’t enjoy and others don’t like what I like. But, by asking them and finding out their likes and dislikes, I’ve discovered several friends who share the same reading tastes. They have become my go-to reading sources. Of course, I also want to find books for them. That’s only fair. So whenever I read something I think one of my friends would like, I tell them.
I don’t always enjoy the books my book club reads, but nine times out of ten I find a new book or a new author. If I don’t enjoy a particular month’s choice, I simply don’t read it. Use your book club to help you find new reading material. If you usually ready fantasy, venture into new territory with your book club.
That’s how I found out about The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (BTW, a series I loved but my mom hated). When I heard about the book and the fate of the author, I ordered it. I did so long before the book became famous in the US. Author interviews give you a deeper perspective of the book than the general reviews you get on Amazon.
Sometimes, they suggest a book that is perfect for you. Goodreads gives you a chance to select the genre you prefer to read. When a friend reads a book in that genre, those friends pop up. I’ve often gotten a good recommendation that way. And, I make recommendations to my Goodreads friends.
I don’t give too much weight to the stars because that could bemisleading. But, if there’s a book that appears interesting from the book jacket and a few of the reviews, I purchase a sample. There have been times when I’ve been misled by the sample. The book starts with a bang but the rest is awful. But, most of the time the sample gives you a good feel for the book. Just like in the old days when we read a bit of the book in the book store.
They can whet your appetite. But, I’d suggest that you order the sample if you see a book trailer that intrigues you.
As you can see from the tips, there’s no method for one-hundred percent success. Even my mom and I didn’t agree every single time. But, if you work at it, you can compile a method that will keep the books lining up.
What tips do you have for finding new books to read?
Check out this #booktrailer. And if you like the looks of the book, order a sample on Amazon.
Thanks for the tips for choosing a new book to read. I’m so sorry you lost your mom. Sounds like you must have enjoyed reading some great books together. My mom was an avid reader, and I’m certain that sparked my love for books when I was a little girl. As she’s grown older mom doesn’t read as much as she used to and it takes her much longer to finish a book. With so much digital information available to us today, it isn’t always easy choosing a novel, but I agree with you- when in doubt download a sample to your Kindle! As a matter of fact, I will go and download your novel e-Murderer right now!