1. Know What "Standing Out" Means to You
The first step in figuring out how to choose a book to read is to define what “standing out” actually means to you. Everyone has different tastes, so a book that resonates deeply with one person might not hit the mark for someone else. Ask yourself what you enjoy: Do you love fast-paced thrillers or prefer slow-burn literary fiction? Do you look for books that evoke strong emotions or challenge your worldview?
Knowing your personal preferences can help you zero in on books that align with what you find engaging. For some, a standout book is one that offers a fresh perspective or takes a unique approach to a familiar theme. For others, it’s about powerful characters or vivid world-building. Identifying your literary sweet spot is key to making a good choice.
2. Recommendations Are Helpful, But Not Everything
Let’s face it—recommendations are everywhere. Whether from friends, book clubs, or social media influencers, everyone has an opinion on what’s a good book to read. While suggestions can be helpful, they shouldn’t be your only guide.
Think about the person giving the recommendation: Do they share similar reading habits to you? If yes, their advice might be spot on. If not, it might not be as useful. Additionally, don’t fall into the hype trap. Just because a book is a bestseller doesn’t mean it will necessarily speak to you.
For a more curated selection, explore niche communities like specific genre blogs or online forums. These sources often dig deeper into lesser-known books that could be perfect for your taste.
3. Check Out the Author’s Background and Writing Style
Before diving into a book, it can help to get familiar with the author. Understanding an author’s background or previous works can give you clues about the themes and perspectives they bring to the table. If you’re new to their writing, try reading a sample chapter to get a feel for their style.
Do you like lyrical, descriptive prose or something more straightforward and to the point? This small preview can make a big difference when learning how to choose a book to read that feels right for you.
4. Read Reviews - But Be Critical
Reviews can be a valuable resource, but they should be taken with a grain of salt. Instead of just scanning the star ratings, try reading both positive and negative reviews. This will give you a balanced view of the book’s strengths and weaknesses.
One tip: Watch out for extreme reviews. Sometimes overly glowing or harsh reviews can be misleading. Look for thoughtful feedback that breaks down the book’s plot, themes, and style. Also, remember the difference between user reviews and critic reviews. While critics provide professional insight, user reviews often come from fellow readers who might share your tastes.
5. Stick to Genres and Themes You Love (But Try Something New)
If you’re unsure how to choose a book to read, start with genres or themes you already know you enjoy. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, start there. Love sci-fi? Look for something in that realm. Sticking with familiar genres can make the selection process easier.
However, stepping just outside your comfort zone can also be rewarding. Maybe try a different sub-genre, like a historical mystery or a sci-fi romance. This gives you a chance to explore something new without veering too far off course.
Reading the book’s synopsis carefully can also help. A strong hook or interesting premise will give you a better idea of whether the book will keep you engaged.
6. Pay Attention to Awards
Books that win major literary awards often do so for a reason. Awards like the Booker Prize, Pulitzer, or National Book Award can signal books with unique themes, powerful writing, or cultural significance. These are often standout reads.
At the same time, genre-specific awards—like the Hugo Award for sci-fi or the Edgar Award for mystery—can help guide you if you’re a fan of certain types of books. While awards aren’t everything, they can be a helpful indicator when you’re trying to figure out how to choose a book.
7. Judge the Cover, but Don’t Let It Decide for You
Yes, we’re often told not to judge a book by its cover, but the truth is, cover designs can give hints about a book’s tone or genre. Bold, colorful designs might hint at lighthearted or adventurous stories, while darker, more minimalist covers could signal something deeper or more serious.
Along with the cover, take time to read the back cover or dust jacket blurb. A great blurb should intrigue you without giving too much away. If the premise grabs your attention, it’s probably worth a closer look.
8. Read the First Few Pages or a Sample
One of the best ways to know if a book will stand out for you is to actually start reading it. Whether at a bookstore or through an online sample, check out the first few pages. Do you like the writing style? Does the story pull you in right away? If it does, that’s a great sign.
Sometimes you’ll know within a few pages whether you’re excited to keep reading. Trust those instincts!
9. Explore Non-Fiction and Hybrid Genres
If you mostly read fiction, consider switching it up with a non-fiction book. Sometimes, a true story can be just as compelling as a novel, offering real-life insights that might stick with you longer. Alternatively, hybrid genres like memoirs or creative non-fiction can provide the best of both worlds—narrative storytelling with real-world context.
If you’ve been asking yourself what is a good book to read next, you might find a hidden gem in these genres.
10. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, the best way to figure out how to choose a book to read is to trust your instincts. If a book speaks to you, gives you that “I have to read this” feeling, it’s probably worth diving into.
Sometimes, the connection you feel with a book before you even open it is the best indicator that it will be something memorable. So don’t overthink it. Let your curiosity guide you, and you’re likely to end up with a book that sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
How to choose a book to read - final thoughts
Choosing a book that stands out doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing your preferences, reading reviews, exploring different genres, and trusting your instincts, you’ll be well on your way to finding books that truly resonate. Next time you’re wondering how to choose a book to read, just remember these simple tips, and you’ll have no problem finding a standout read.