As book lovers, we’re often faced with the exciting but overwhelming task of curating our To-Be-Read (TBR) book lists. Whether it’s because of an ever-growing pile of books or an overabundance of new releases, it can be tricky to decide what to read next. The key to navigating this challenge lies in creating a TBR book list that not only keeps you motivated but also reflects your personal reading preferences and long-term goals.
In this post, we’ll explore strategies to help you build the ultimate TBR list that works for your reading habits, preferences, and personal goals.
Step 1: Know Your Reading Preferences
Before you even start building your TBR book list, it’s important to understand what you truly enjoy reading. While it might be tempting to add books just because they’re popular or on a best-seller list, your TBR should reflect genres and themes you love, or want to explore more deeply. Knowing your reading preferences will help you create a list that’s both enjoyable and motivating.
How to figure out your reading preferences:
- Look at past reads: What books have you enjoyed most? Are there recurring genres, authors, or themes?
- Note reading patterns: Do you prefer series or standalones? Fantasy or thrillers?
- Explore sub-genres: If you love romance, do you prefer historical, contemporary, or fantasy romance?
- Consider moods and settings: Do you gravitate toward feel-good books, high-stakes thrillers, or something more introspective? Do you read seasonally?
This will guide you in narrowing down the types of books that should top your list.
Step 2: Set Reading Goals
Setting clear reading goals for the year can provide a sense of direction for your TBR. Whether you want to read a certain number of books, explore a new genre, or discover a specific author, having goals in mind helps you focus your TBR list.
Goal-based categories to consider:
- Numerical goals: How many books do you want to read this year? Setting a target helps you stay on track and prevents your TBR from becoming overwhelming. (I love joining the GoodReads Reading Challenge every year.)
- Genre exploration: Want to step outside your comfort zone? Dedicate a portion of your TBR list to genres you’ve never tried before.
- Backlist books: Include older titles you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t gotten around to yet.
- Author discovery: Make room for books by authors you’ve heard a lot about but never read.
By breaking your TBR into smaller goal-oriented sections, you’ll feel more motivated to tackle it throughout the year.
Step 3: Add Books That Align With Your Current Mood
Your reading habits might vary depending on your current mood or situation. The best TBR book list adapts to these fluctuations. For example, if you’re feeling nostalgic, you might want to add books that evoke a sense of comfort, or if you’re in the mood for something light, a romcom might be the perfect pick.
Mood-based suggestions for your TBR book list:
- Feeling adventurous? Add fantasy or sci-fi books that transport you to a different world.
- Need a pick-me-up? Go for feel-good contemporary novels or memoirs.
- Looking for suspense? Choose thrillers or mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Your TBR list should feel flexible, allowing you to choose books based on your changing moods.
Step 4: Diversify Your TBR List
A well-rounded TBR list is one that includes variety. This ensures you won’t get stuck in a reading rut and helps you explore a broad range of voices, stories, and genres.
Ways to diversify your TBR:
- Try different genres: Instead of sticking to just one genre, throw in a few genres you wouldn’t typically read. For instance, if you’re a fantasy lover, consider adding some contemporary or historical fiction.
- Non-fiction titles: Non-fiction can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Add biographies, self-help, or books on subjects you’re passionate about to keep things interesting.
- Poetry, short stories, and novellas: Sometimes a short story collection, a short novella, or a book of poetry can give you a refreshing change of pace from full-length novels.
- Use a variety of formats: To make your reading experience more flexible, mix up the formats you use. Audiobooks, digital eBooks, and physical books each offer unique advantages. Audiobooks are great for multitasking, eBooks provide convenience, and physical books offer a tactile experience.
Example of a wide-ranging TBR:
- Gothic Fantasy: One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
- Contemporary Romance: The Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams
- Non-fiction: 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
- Novella: The Glass Mermaid by Melanie Karsak
Step 5: Embrace New Releases and Backlist Gems
While new releases can be exciting, don’t forget about backlist titles—books that have been out for a while but have flown under the radar. A balanced TBR book list includes a mix of both.
Balancing New Releases and Backlist Books:
- New releases: These books often generate buzz and can introduce you to fresh voices or exciting trends in the literary world. Subscribe to newsletters, follow book bloggers, or browse bestseller lists to stay on top of new books.
- Backlist gems: Sometimes older books are the best-kept secrets. Consider exploring novels that might have been overlooked or passed by, and dive into classics you’ve missed.
This combination of the fresh and the familiar will keep your TBR book list dynamic.
Step 6: Prioritize TBR Organization
With so many books to choose from, it’s easy for your TBR book list to become chaotic. Whether you use a physical notebook, a spreadsheet, or a digital app like Goodreads, organizing your TBR list can help keep you focused and prevent overwhelm.
TBR organizational tips:
- Create a TBR playlist: Categorize your list by genre or theme, or prioritize books you’re most excited about. You can also color-code or use tags for easier navigation.
- Set a “Must-Read” priority: Mark books that you’re most eager to read. These can be your focus but don’t feel pressured to read them all at once.
- Update regularly: TBR lists are living documents. Reassess and update it periodically. Remove books you no longer feel interested in and replace them with new ones that spark your interest.
Step 7: Get Social With Your TBR
Building a TBR book list doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Sharing and discussing your TBR book list with fellow book lovers can introduce you to new ideas and recommendations, while also keeping you motivated.
Ways to socialize your TBR:
- Join book clubs: Online and in-person book clubs are fantastic for discovering new books and reading with others.
- Follow Bookstagram/Booktube: Platforms like Instagram and YouTube are filled with book reviewers and influencers who frequently share their own TBRs and recommendations.
- Ask for recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask friends, family, or social media followers for their book suggestions. This can help you vary your list and discover hidden gems.
Step 8: Keep Your TBR Book List Flexible
Life happens, and sometimes you won’t feel like reading that book you had planned. The beauty of a great TBR book list is that it’s flexible and can evolve with your preferences.
Make space for spontaneity:
- Ditch the guilt: If you’re not in the mood for a book on your TBR book list, move on to something else. Your list should be fun, not stressful.
- Add books on-the-go: Sometimes, you’ll discover new books while you’re reading others or in a conversation with a friend. Allow space for these “spur of the moment” additions. Or if you find a highly anticipated book from the skip-the-line feature on the Libby library app.
Step 9: Review and Reflect Regularly
Your reading tastes evolve, and so should your TBR book list. Take time each month or quarter to review and reflect on your progress.
How to review your TBR:
- Track your progress: Use Goodreads, The StoryGraph, or a reading journal to track the books you’ve read, as well as the ones you’re still interested in. This can help you stay focused on your goals.
- Reassess your interests: As your tastes change, some books might no longer appeal to you. Regularly remove titles that no longer excite you and replace them with new ones that align with your current reading desires.
- Celebrate milestones: If you’ve reached a reading goal or checked off a book you’ve been excited to read, take a moment to celebrate! Recognizing achievements will keep you motivated.
Wrap-Up
Building the ultimate TBR book list is about more than just choosing the next book to read. It’s about creating a list that motivates you, aligns with your reading goals, and reflects your ever-evolving tastes. By understanding your preferences, setting reading goals, diversifying your list, and maintaining flexibility, you’ll build a TBR book list that brings excitement, variety, and joy to your reading journey.
Also, remember to always take care of yourself as you’re tackling your TBR book list. Here are some self-care tips to help you on your journey.
Remember, your TBR book list should be a tool for enjoyment, not a source of pressure. Happy reading!
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