If you're not an avid reader, or you feel like you've exhausted your genre of choice, finding a new book to enjoy might seem like a daunting task. But whether you're looking for a way to relax during your holiday time off, or need some entertainment for a long flight or car ride to visit relatives, there's really no better time to pick up a new read.
The end of the year is also a great time to look for a new book because most book review sites will be compiling lists of "the best books of the year." Here are a few resources to guide you to your new favorite title.
1. Goodreads
Goodreads is one of the best places to find your next favorite book. You can search for books, read reviews, and find out where to buy certain books—this especially comes in handy if you find a book published by a small press.
They'll also offer suggestions based on the books you've read in the past. In addition to looking for books you want to read, you can also research books for friends and recommend titles.
2. The NY Times: Book Reviews
Interested in best sellers, but eager to branch out past that? Then you may want to check out The New York Times book reviews . You can find reviews of everything from memoirs and non-fiction to novels and short story collections.
The NY Times also offers a book podcast you can add to your listening list, where the Book Review editors discuss various titles.
3. Amazon Recommended for You
If you've ever purchased a book from Amazon, you were a few scrolls away from their very helpful recommendations. Amazon tracks what you buy and then uses that information to suggest new purchases. While not always right on the mark, Amazon often gets it right, and can help you expand your library.
4. Rumpus: Book Reviews and Author Interviews
The Rumpus is a great resource for finding new books and reading about authors, but it's much more than that. The Rumpus has content on everything from books and art, to politics and author interviews.
Those interviews are often a great way to find out if you'd be interested in that particular author's book. The Rumpus focuses more on content that is off the beaten path—and they even accept writing submissions from readers.
5. Esquire: Books Reviews
Esquire magazine, though mostly known for articles on other topics, actually has some very good book reviews, though usually geared toward a male audience. In addition to reviews for novels, short story collections, and poetry collections, Esquire also publishes articles on certain authors that will probably assist you in determining whether or not you'd like their work.
6. Oprah: Books
The elusive "Oprah's Book Club" sticker is often joked about in television shows and movies featuring authors who are trying to make it to the bestseller's list. But making it on Oprah's list didn't become popular for no reason—her website features tons of great books.
Read through the reviews, find a few reading lists, and get reading. You'll probably like at least some of the books recommended.
7. NPR: Book Reviews
A great resource for finding both best sellers and other, less-publicized books is NPR's website. NPR reviews all kinds of books including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, photography, and more. It's also possible to find articles or recordings of interviews with authors.
