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    How to find a book you won't want to put down

    en-usDecember 25, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • What questions should I ask to find a good book as an adult?Asking questions about preferred TV genres, time settings, and desired emotions can help find a suitable book for adults.

      Finding books you'll love to read as an adult can be a challenge, but asking yourself the right questions can help. When you're not sure what to read next, consider reaching out to a book recommendation expert, like Tracy Thomas from The Stacks podcast. She suggested asking questions like what type of TV shows you enjoy, whether you prefer stories set in the past, present, or future, and how you want to feel while reading. By providing these details, she was able to recommend books that aligned with my preferences. Additionally, hosting a celebratory brunch can be an affordable and enjoyable way to spend time with loved ones, using wallet-friendly finds from Whole Foods Market. So, whether you're looking for a good book or a great brunch, remember that asking the right questions can lead to wonderful discoveries.

    • Trust your gut when choosing booksExplore reading as an expression of personal interests, trust your gut feelings and enjoy genres or books that resonate with you.

      Discovering and reading books that truly resonate with us can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. The speaker, who is a nonfiction reader, emphasizes the importance of trusting our gut feelings and interests when choosing what to read. She suggests starting with genres or specific books that we've previously enjoyed, and seeking guidance from booksellers or librarians if needed. The speaker also highlights the appeal of nonfiction for her due to its real-life basis and straightforward writing style. Overall, the key takeaway is to approach reading as an exploration of our interests and passions, and not feel pressured to finish books that don't capture our attention.

    • Strategies for Finding Books in a BookstoreExplore new releases, engage booksellers, consider cover designs, and stay open-minded to discover new favorites.

      Describing books based on their content, genre, and emotional impact can help in finding books that resonate with us. When visiting a bookstore, strategies such as looking at new releases, talking to booksellers, and judging covers can lead to intriguing discoveries. While covers are not a definitive indicator of a book's quality, they often reflect the book's genre and target audience. By noticing trends in the books we've enjoyed, we can make informed decisions based on cover designs. Ultimately, the key is to remain open-minded and willing to try new things, as some unexpected finds may become our favorite reads.

    • Considering genres or categories can help narrow down book optionsExplore new genres for a reading challenge, ask for recommendations, and don't be afraid to try new formats like poetry.

      When it comes to choosing a book to read, considering the genre or category can be helpful. Whether you're a fan of prose, poetry, plays, graphic novels, workbooks, or a combination, having a sense of what type of book resonates with you can narrow down your options. If you're looking to expand your reading horizons, trying new genres can be an exciting challenge. For instance, if you're a nonfiction reader and want to explore fiction, look for books with similar qualities to your favorite nonfiction. Consider genres like literary fiction or general fiction, which focus on realistic everyday life, as opposed to genre fiction like thriller, mystery, horror, or romance. When browsing, read the jacket copy and ask the bookseller for recommendations based on your preferences. And remember, don't be afraid to try new things, like poetry, which can offer unique perspectives and help break out of a reading rut.

    • Trust your reading preferences and connect with the materialRecognize the power to explore a book's content before committing, understand your mood and desired reading experience, and don't be swayed by popular recommendations if they don't resonate. If disengaged, consider moving on.

      Reading is a personal experience, and it's essential to trust your preferences and connect with the material on your terms. In the information age, you have the power to explore what a book is about before making a commitment. Additionally, understanding your mood and what type of reading experience you desire is crucial. Don't be swayed by popular recommendations if they don't resonate with you. It's okay to enjoy books that others may not, as there's an audience for every title. Conversely, if you find yourself disengaged from a book, it's important to recognize the signs and consider moving on. These signs may include falling asleep while reading, constantly checking your phone, or feeling a strong desire to do something else. Ultimately, reading is an art form, and your enjoyment and connection to the material are what matter most.

    • Find books that resonate with you and set a realistic reading goalSet a realistic reading goal, like 10 pages a day, and focus on books that you enjoy to build a consistent reading practice. Try 'Lucky Red' or 'Deep as the Sky, Red as the Sea' for adventure-loving readers.

      It's okay to put down a book if you're not enjoying it and focus on reading books that resonate with you. Establishing a realistic reading goal, such as 10 pages a day, can help build a consistent reading practice. Recommendations for adventure-loving readers include "Lucky Red" and "Deep as the Sky, Red as the Sea." These books offer exciting stories and historical elements, making them worth exploring. Remember, cultivating taste and making reading a pleasurable experience is essential. For more reading tips and recommendations, visit npr.org/lifekit.

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