My 5 Reading Hot Takes

We should all be reading more

If you didn't know, reading a lot and like constantly is a pretty big requirement for an author (and thus, an aspiring one too). Not only does reading help writers find inspiration, grow in their craft, feel better about their writing because if this book can get published then so can mine! etc. etc. But reading is also the best way to stay informed on the current book market.

Yes, capitalism ruined even this.

Writers are expected to know what's working at the moment, what's not as common to see, and be knowledgeable about a wide variety of books in their genre. There's a reason agents usually have a list of favourite or comparable books to what they want to see--being able to connect with them over those same books because you've personally read them is a nice way to write a personalized query letter.

Even if you aren't a writer, I think we all agree that reading is good for you, and makes you look very sexy. So with that in mind, here are my five tips on how to read more:

1.      Schedule a time

Even if it’s only half an hour before bed or the fifteen minute train ride you take to school/work, reading for any amount of time consistently will finish the book. Build it into your routine somewhere that ensures you always have some sort of time to spend putting pages behind you.

2.      Turn to digital content less

If the choice is between an easy to put on and turn your brain off TV show over a book… how often are you going to choose the book? Try powering off your phone/other devices when you’re looking to get some reading in. I found I started reading a whole lot more the less time I spent on social media.

3.      Join a club or pair up with friends

Book clubs or finding another person to read with you is a great way to hold you to finishing a book. Plus, some of the best parts of reading are connecting with others over a story, and sharing theories, artwork, head canons, etc.

4.      Try other formats

If physical books aren’t your style, try an e-reader or an audio book. I sometimes get a bit car sick reading a book on the bus, but I can listen to it on my phone and finish it far faster. It doesn’t matter how the book gets done if the book gets done.

5.      Don’t be afraid to DNF

If you’re not enjoying a book and coming back to read it is a chore—you don’t have to finish it. It’s okay to put down a book and choose something new if it’s not grabbing you. Reading, while important for the reasons we already talked about, is also supposed to be fun. Put it down and move on if you aren’t having fun.

Don't know where to start? I send out a book recommendation every month in my newsletter. Consider signing up ;-)