I’ve always loved books. But as I got older, I found I had less time (or more excuses) not to read. In 2020 when the world slowed down, I got back into it and started tracking the number of books I read just for fun. Toward the end of the year, I heard about the Goodreads Reading Challenge, so I made reading 40 books my 2021 New Year’s resolution. It took up until 9:30 pm on December 31 to hit that goal, but I made it. I loved the challenge so much I continued the challenge in 2022 with a goal of 41 books.

I love the way books transport you into a different world and require your brain to imagine the characters and setting. I like how people can read the same book but visualize how the characters look in their own unique way. I find reading works my brain in a different manner than watching TV and helps me relax after a long day.

I tend to gravitate toward mystery/thriller/suspense novels, but also enjoy an occasional sci-fi or coming-of-age story. The page-turning books you can’t put down are the best! I get a lot of my recommendations from Reese’s Book Club. I follow her on Instagram, and each month there is a new book suggestion. I also use the Goodreads app which recommends books based on other books you have read and enjoyed. I’m also a fan of book-to-screen adaptations.

In honor of National Reading Month, I encourage everyone to rediscover or discover their love for reading. Head to your local library, the used bookstore, brush off the dust from that book on the shelf or download an audio book.  And let reading open your world.