It's Book Count Season!!

Hey bookworms! It's officially Book Count Season, and I'm so excited to dive into my reading stats for the year. The original post got me thinking: how many books did you read, and crucially, how many of those amazing stories were penned by Black authors? I truly believe that tracking our reading isn't just about showing off a big number; it's about understanding our reading habits, challenging ourselves, and intentionally broadening our perspectives. For me, book counting has become a rewarding ritual. It helps me see patterns in what genres I gravitate towards, discover new authors, and even realize if I'm falling short on my reading goals. It’s also incredibly motivating to see that number tick up throughout the year! There are so many cool ways to do it. Some of my friends swear by dedicated reading apps like Goodreads or StoryGraph, which automatically tally everything and even provide fun statistics. Others keep a simple bullet journal or a spreadsheet to log their progress. I even know someone who uses a CapCut video montage at the end of the year to showcase all their reads – it's such a creative way to celebrate! Whatever your method, the act of reflecting on each book you've finished is incredibly satisfying. But beyond just the sheer quantity, the quality and diversity of our reading lists are what truly enrich us. The question, 'How many of those were written by Black People?' really hit home for me. It's not enough to just read; we need to actively seek out and amplify voices that are often marginalized in mainstream publishing. When I started intentionally diversifying my reading, my world opened up in ways I never expected. I've discovered incredible narratives, unique perspectives, and powerful insights that have deeply impacted my understanding of the world and myself. This year, my personal reading goal was to ensure at least 30% of my reads were by Black authors. It's a conscious effort that has led me to some absolute gems. For instance, while I enjoyed diving into epic sci-fi series like Star Wars Legacy by Madeleine Roux – which, by the way, has some fantastic world-building and is perfect for a deep dive into an expansive universe – I always make sure to balance it with powerful works by Black writers. Think about critically acclaimed authors like Brit Bennett, Colson Whitehead, or Octavia E. Butler; their stories are not just entertaining but profoundly important, offering reflections on history, identity, and the human condition. If you're looking to expand your reading to include more Black authors, here are a few tips based on my own experience: Check out literary awards: Look up winners and nominees for awards like the Hurston/Wright Legacy Award, the National Book Award for Fiction, or the Booker Prize to find acclaimed works by diverse authors. Join a diverse book club: Many online and local groups specifically focus on reading works by Black authors or authors of color. It's a great way to discover new books and discuss them in a supportive community. Follow diverse book reviewers: On platforms like Lemon8, Instagram, or YouTube, seek out reviewers who champion diverse literature. They often have fantastic, authentic recommendations that you might not find elsewhere. Visit independent Black-owned bookstores: These stores are often vibrant community hubs and treasure troves of amazing books. The staff are usually incredibly knowledgeable and can offer personalized recommendations. Explore different genres: Don't limit yourself! Black authors excel in every genre, from romance to fantasy, historical fiction to non-fiction. There's a whole world of stories waiting for you. So, as we wrap up this 'Book Count Season,' I encourage everyone to not only tally their reads but also to critically examine whose stories they are consuming. Let's make sure our bookshelves reflect the rich, diverse tapestry of human experience. What's been your favorite diverse read this year? Share your thoughts below!