One of the goals I set for 2018 was to read more. Specifically, I wanted to read 50 books.
Where did that number come from? I couldn’t tell you. When I set that goal, I didn’t spend any time thinking about how exactly I would go about achieving it. In fact, I half suspected this goal would end up like most of the others on my overly ambitious 2018 to-do list: incomplete, despite initial gusto to make it happen.
So I was surprised to not only reach this goal, but surpassed it. In 2018, I read 70 books.
I used to be a huge reader. Growing up, we spent a lot of time at our local library, browsing the shelves and taking home stacks of books every week. If I wasn’t reading a library book, I had my nose buried in one of the dirt cheap paperbacks my grandparents found at yard sales and flea markets (which were gold mines for Babysitter’s Club and Sweet Valley High books).
What changed? I started writing more. I still read often, but my preference shifted toward creating my own stories.
This year, I wanted to find more balance between reading and writing. I firmly believe the best way to become a better writer is to read – so that’s what I set out to do in 2018.
Is reading more on your goal list for 2019? Here are some tips on how to reach your reading goals – without breaking the bank.
What I Read in 2018
Before I get into my tips, I wanted to talk a bit about what I read in 2018.
The simple answer is: a lot of things! My preference is generally young adult contemporary, but in 2018, I tried to stretch myself and try new things – and am I ever glad I did! I picked up books I likely wouldn’t have even considered before – and I really loved some of them.
Did you set a reading challenge? If you’re looking for ideas, here are some of the books I rated five star:
- Beartown and Us Against You by Fredrik Backman
- Ragged Company by Richard Wagamese
- Illuminae and Gemina by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff (I highly recommend audiobook if you can. They’re full cast and incredible)
- A List of Cages by Robin Roe (not for the faint of heart!)
- Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Budget Bookworm: How I read 70 books on the cheap
There are four things I did to increase my reading in 2018 without breaking the bank.
I (sort of) went to the library!
I didn’t visit the physical library in 2018, but I did download OverDrive – and to say it changed the way I read would be a massive understatement.
OverDrive is, without question, the single biggest reason I was able to exceed my reading goal in 2018.
I’ve written about OverDrive before, but the idea is this: you download the app, put in your local library card number and voila! You have access to all the eBooks and audiobooks your library has to offer.
Although I did take out a few eBooks to read on my phone, most of my reading this year was done through audiobooks – and I anticipate this will continue in 2019. I love being able to pop on a book while I go for a walk or do chores around the house. Two birds, one stone, you know? If you want to read more in 2019, I highly recommend checking out OverDrive!
Cost: FREE
I browsed the digital sale rack
There were a few times during the year where I was waiting for a book on OverDrive and wanted something new to read. In those instances, I popped onto iBooks to look through the options. Most of the books I bought here were romance novels, ranging in price from $0.99 to $4.99.
I also purchased a couple books via Amazon. Most of these books were purchased used for a couple bucks a piece. If you are willing to cope with some wear and tear like I am, you can find some great deals on Amazon.
Cost: $0.99 – $4.99 ish
I borrowed (and inherited) from friends!
I didn’t do as much of this this year as I have in the past, but I did borrow a couple books from friends. My best friend also sent some books my way when she was done with them. This is a great way to try out new things – especially when you have a friend who knows your taste and has an idea of what kind of books you might enjoy!
Cost: FREE
I bought a couple books!
I did spend some money on books this year – I couldn’t tell you how much, but I do know this: it was a lot less than it has been traditionally.
Instead of buying ever book that looked interesting, I only purchased ones from authors I know I love. I also made a point to sell some books taking up space on my shelf that I know I won’t read again. I don’t – and won’t – have the biggest book collection, but the ones I am keeping are ones I really love. I’m OK with that.
Cost: ~$15.00-$25.00
Looking ahead: How many books will I read in 2019?
Good question! I considered setting another reading goal, but in the end, I decided against it.
One thing I do know I want to do in 2019 is read a little more for personal development, so I will try to do that. I’m also strongly considering a subscription to a service like Audible or Scribd for those times when I can’t find an audiobook to read on OverDrive, but we’ll see.
Ultimately, my reading goal for 2019 is simple: I want to keep doing it!
Final Thoughts
If reading more is one of your 2019 goals, you are in luck! There are so many great options out there that make reading a totally affordable hobby! I had an awesome reading year in 2018 and I’m excited to see what amazing books I’ll discover in 2019!
What’s your favourite book? Did you set a reading goal for 2019?
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