January is an excellent time to set up a reading goal for the year.
Kristen Caschera, public service librarian at the London Public Library’s central branch, says any reading goal, is a good reading goal.
“Whether it’s 10 books, 52 books, or 100 books, as long as you’re realistic in the time you have to read, it’s good. Any kind of goal will get you motivated to read,” Caschera added.
Choosing out the perfect book to start off the year can be a difficult task with so many options in the market. Caschera says most people are leaning towards reading non-fiction works. “Historical fiction, biographies, memoirs, self –help books have all gained a lot of popularity in the last few years,” she added
Caschera’s top picks of 2018:
- Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover
- Fire and Fury by Michael Wolff
- Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
- The Library book by Susan Orlean
Most anticipated books of 2019
If you are interested in reading some of the best books 2019 has to offer, here are some of Caschera’s recommendations:
The Water Cure by Sophie Mackintosh
- Release date: Jan. 8, 2019
- Genre: Dystopian fiction
- Brief synopsis: Imprisoned on an island, three sisters, who were raised to fear men, encounter a surprise. They embark on a cat-and-mouse game with some interesting characters.
The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker
- Release date: Jan. 15, 2019
- Genre: Dystopian fiction
- Brief synopsis: A fictional town is overtaken by a sleeping sickness. The Dreamers explores what happens to people when their loved ones never wake up.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
- Release date: Feb. 5, 2019
- Genre: Historical fantasy
- Brief synopsis: The first book in James’ African history/fantasy trilogy. Follows the story of a mercenary tracking down a missing missing child.
Days by Moonlight by Andre Alexis
- Release date: Feb. 19, 2019
- Genre: Absurdist fiction
- Brief synopsis: What is real? Almost a year after his parents’ death, botanist Alfred Homer embarks on an unusual road trip.
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Release date: March 5, 2019
- Genre: Literary fiction
- Brief Synopsis: A gripping novel about a 1970s rock band’s rise to fame and dramatic breakup.
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi
- Release date: March 5, 2019
- Genre: Literary fiction
- Brief Synopsis: Explores the relationship of a family bound together by a fantastical gingerbread recipe.
Whether you choose to start your reading journey now, or in a few weeks, Caschera urges you to set up a goal.
“Reading is one of those things people love to do, but it’s also something that can easily fall in the backburner, especially when you’re busy…Setting a reading goal is a great way to keep reading at the forefront of your mind,” she said.
“You’ll be left with a sense of accomplishment when you reach your goal,” Caschera added.
