Reading Resolutions for an Incredible 2018
[Movie still from Beauty and the Beast, Walt Disney Pictures]
It’s no secret that reading completes us. Studies have shown that reading fiction increases our capacity for empathy, reduces stress levels, and might just help us live a little longer. For 2018, we’re challenging you to reach outside your reading comfort zone – and we’ve come up with a few ideas to get you started. Think of us as your bookish guides on this literary quest.
1. Read a book with a plot centered on immigration to the United States. Challenge yourself to choose a book written by an immigrant author or the child of immigrants.
2. Read a book written by someone who lives in your state.
3. Read a classic by an author of color.
4. Read a book that centers on a religion you’re unfamiliar with.
5. Read a non-fiction book that explores a political party opposite your own.
6. Read a book that’s unapologetically feminist.
7. Read a young adult book with a protagonist who’s a person of color. Extra points if it’s a romantic comedy.
8. Read a collection of poetry by a living poet.
9. Read something by our incredible Poet Laureate, Tracy K. Smith.
10. Read a comic with a hero who’s a person of color.
11. Read a novel about a trans protagonist, written by a trans author.
12. Read a book about something you know nothing about.
13. Read a book where all point of view characters are people of color.
14. Read a debut novel.
15. Read a romance novel about an interracial relationship.
16. Read a collection of essays or short stories by a debut author.
17. Reread your favorite book from last year.
18. Read a book about sports. Extra points the book is written by a female sportswriter.
19. Read a book in translation.
20. Read a book recommended by your best friend.
