Here Are Some Badass Ways For Planning Your Next Read

By Emily Black, Senior Columnist

We’ve all been there… staring at the bookshelf wondering which bounded beauty we’ll emerge our mind in next. For some, this is an easy decision. For others (like me) the endless opportunities of fortuity are much more exciting than a discerning selection.

If you’re interested in spicing up your next reading adventure, look no further! Here are some ways to true bibliophilic spontaneity.

What Book Should You Read?

A Blind Date With a Book

Have you ever seen the mysterious brown paper-wrapped books? Usually, the only thing provided is a short description or keywords such as “For someone who prefers slow and thoughtful stories; a fan of female writers.” This book-selecting process is a fun way to discover something new and read outside your comfort zone. You can find your next blind date on sites such as Etsy, a monthly subscription box, or possibly at a bookstore near you! 

Book Roulette

This may be my personal favorite. I have SO MANY unread books on my shelf... Yet I keep buying more. It’s a malady called “Tsundoku,” which we recently explored in a feature article here at “Great Books, Great Minds.” 

Do you remember asking your mom to go to McDonald’s, often eliciting a response, “We have food at home!” I had to start telling myself, “You have unread books at home,” when I was tempted to purchase a new read. If you can relate, this next activity can help you take advantage of the unread books at your disposal. 

Ready? 

I want you to write down 5-10 titles that you’re interested in and place them in a bowl, hat, jar, whatever. Next, randomly select. Last step-- enjoy!

Go to Your Nearest Bookstore and Ask a Store Associate to Surprise You. 

Tell them about your interests and let them decide. Or, if you’re not a picky reader, give them total freedom. 

Ask Social Media

Ask Facebook friends for recommendations. Create a poll on your Instagram story and whichever title has the most votes is the next book for you. Talk to strangers on an online forum. The possibilities are endless!

Where Should You Read It?              

Coin Flip Navigation

Whether you’re walking or driving, this could be an interesting way to end up at a serendipitous location. Flip a coin at every turn. (Be safe and make sure you’re at a complete stop if you’re driving.) Heads = Left, Tails = Right. Repeat until you end up at an attractive reading destination.

Location Roulette

Similar to “book roulette” above. Write down peaceful locations around you and choose from a jar. 

Close Your Eyes and Scroll The Online Review Site Yelp

Search for your preferred reading location. I like parks, cafes, and patios. Close your eyes and scroll, whatever location your finger ends up on when you stop scrolling is where you should go. 

Ask Social Media 

Let your online friends decide where to spend your day reading. 

Now For A Bonus Tip: Are You Up For a Challenge?

Until next time, stay thirsty for a great book!

Emily