2024 reading wrap up (+ 2025 reading resolutions)

Last year was incredible for my reading journey! As my StoryGraph summary showed, I managed to read a fantastic 25 books, devouring 6,862 pages. My average rating was a solid 3.93, proving I really found my stride in choosing books I loved. My top genres were Thriller and Mystery, but I also ventured into some incredible speculative fiction, which brings me to my absolute top book of the year: 'I Who Have Never Known Men' by Jacqueline Harpman. This book was a phenomenal discovery, truly a 5-star read! It's a speculative fiction novel that felt incredibly cinematic and thought-provoking. If you're looking for something unique and deeply moving that stays with you long after the last page, I cannot recommend this enough. It’s definitely one of those "books to read" if you want to expand your horizons beyond typical thrillers or contemporary fiction. Finding those hidden gems or even well-loved classics can sometimes feel overwhelming with so many options out there. While I didn't read the "top 10 most read books in the world" last year, I focused on finding books that genuinely interested *me*. My strategy often involves checking out Goodreads reviews, browsing BookTok, or even asking friends for their personal recommendations. Don't be afraid to try new genres; you might just stumble upon your next favorite author! For instance, diving into speculative fiction was a game-changer for me. Now, for my 2025 reading resolutions – I'm really excited about these! Read at least 2 nonfiction books: This is a big one for me. I tend to stick to fiction, but I want to broaden my understanding of the world. My plan is to pick topics I'm genuinely curious about, perhaps something related to history or personal development, to make it less daunting. Have you found any nonfiction books that changed your perspective? Document more in my reading journal: Last year, I tracked my books, but I want to go deeper. This year, I plan to write down short reflections after each book, note down favorite quotes, and really engage with what I'm reading. It's not just about finishing a book; it's about processing it. This also makes creating my "reading wrap up" at the end of next year so much easier and more meaningful! Intentionally read more books by Black women: This resolution is incredibly important to me. I want to actively seek out and support diverse voices in literature. There's a wealth of incredible talent, and I'm committed to discovering more of their stories. If you have any recommendations for fantastic books by Black women authors, please share them with me! I'm always looking for my next great read. Setting these goals helps me stay motivated and intentional about my reading. Whether you're aiming for a specific number of books, exploring new genres, or focusing on diverse authors, having a "resolution reading" plan can truly enhance your experience. I'm already looking forward to my 2025 reading wrap-up and seeing how these resolutions play out! What are your reading aspirations for the new year?