How to Pick Your Next Book

When you finish your cache of books to read, it can sometimes be difficult to find another you enjoy. Here are some tips to make a good pick.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for books by the same author. If there is an author that you have particularly enjoyed in the past, chances are you will enjoy other works by them. At the library, bookstore or online book vendor, look for other titles by that author.

2. Take suggestions. A lot of book reviews and online book vendors will give suggestions for books you will enjoy given the books that you are searching for or reading about. It will read something like this, "If you enjoyed Author X, you will really enjoy Author Y." Rarely are these suggestions off base. You should also ask friends and family for their suggestions. Everyone has that great author or particular novel that they enjoyed and recommend.

3. Find a particular sub-genre that you enjoy. Within the genres of fiction and nonfiction, there are several sub-genres you can narrow your tastes to. Examples of these include: science fiction, romance, erotica, creative nonfiction, mystery, humor, classic, contemporary, essays, poetry, short stories, etc.

4. When all else fails, let yourself judge the book by its cover. If it jumps off the shelf at you, give it a shot. It never hurts to try!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to put down a book that's not keeping your attention. You don't have to finish a book you're not enjoying.