Reading More In 2024 – Top 5 Book Picks
When it comes to goals in the new year, maybe reading is on your list. Whether it’s romance, thrillers, autobiographies, or any other genre, you have so many great books to choose from. Below, I’ll share my 5 top book picks based on the books I read last year.
More Reading
The past few years, I’ve really made an effort to do more reading. It really happened randomly. I had been reading a lot of self-help, personal development type books. And I was spending a good bit of money on buying books. But, we had gotten a library card when my stepdaughter visited for the summer. So one day, I decided I’d check into some books for myself.
And after that first visit to check out some books for myself, I remembered just how much I loved to read. Now, I still love personal development books, but my passion for fiction was reignited. I’d check out 3 to 5 books each time I’d visit. And I really found out how much I love thrillers, not to mention anything true crime related.
Last year, I set a goal to read 30 books in 2023. I’m in a group on Facebook where many people share what they’re reading and their recommendations. It was there that I learned about the GoodReads app that helps you track the books you read. And in the app, you can set a reading goal.
Setting Goals
In 2023, I managed to finish 35 books, so I exceeded my goal. And honestly, I could’ve read a lot more, but I did slack off reading toward the end of the year when I got really busy. This year, I’ve set my goal at 40!
I started re-reading Lessons In Chemistry on January 1st. The reason I say re-reading is… I started it at some point last year, and never finished. I didn’t want to count it as a book read this year if I didn’t actually read the WHOLE thing in this calendar year. Maybe that’s just a mental thing for me.
So far, I am loving Lessons In Chemistry. Apparently there’s now a show based on the book on Apple TV. I might have to eventually check that out. But as for the book… I think I’ll have it finished before the weekend is over. If not before then! It really is a good book, and I’ve challenged myself to read at least a little bit each day.
But let’s take a look back at some of my top book picks from what I read last year!
- Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah: I read this one early on in 2023. And honestly, I’d already been watching the show in Netflix. I read this one really fast, and cried SO hard. Just be prepared with tissues.
- The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James: This one was really good and kept me guessing. It was one of the first few thrillers I read. It’s a spooky one.
- Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica: I borrowed this one from my sister. It’s another book that kept me guessing. I love when I want to keep reading to find out what’s going to happen.
- If You’re Reading This by Kiersten Modglin: Another thriller that had a surprise ending that I didn’t expect. I always try to figure out how it will end, but most of the time, I don’t actually guess right! But that’s what makes it so fun to read. What fun would it be if I could always guess the ending?
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelide: I read this in about 3-4 days. It’s a psychological thriller and had a lot of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages!
Other Books
I did read a few personal development things along the way too, but most of what I read last year was fiction. This year, I think it’ll be most of the same type of books too. Not long ago, I was in Target in Augusta and was making a list of all the books that looked interesting to add to my “Want To Read” list.
I did listen to some audiobooks this past year, but honestly, I prefer to have a physical book in my hand. I pay more attention. And it’s nice to unplug from technology for a bit. But if you’re looking to multitask while driving, exercising, etc., listening to a book can be great. And I didn’t know this until my mom brought it up, but my library has a lot of audiobooks. I can just open up the app and check them out! So easy and convenient.
Top Book Picks In 2024
Since I’m getting close to finishing up Lessons In Chemistry, I’m going to need to find my next read! A stop by the Nancy Carson Library might be in my afternoon plans today. I’d love see your top book picks! Shoot me a message on Instagram or email me!
And there’s also a new book club in Augusta, check out more on that HERE.
7 Planners, Calendars, and Journals to Help You Kick Off Your 2024
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