Chapter 1: The Importance of Recommendations

If you’ve ever spent time with me, you’ll likely hear me ask, “What are you currently reading?” My curiosity doesn’t stop there—I’m eager to learn about your preferred genres, other books you enjoy, favorite authors, and whether you lean towards physical books, eBooks, or audiobooks.

The responses I receive often catch me off guard and reveal a lot about the person. For instance, while at the doctor's office, I asked the nurse, who mentioned that she had just finished Lessons in Chemistry. At one of my local libraries, I learned that Abigail, a Gen Z librarian, is a fan of fantasy novels.

The women I volunteer with at the library book sale are incredibly well-read. They recommended Boys in the Boat to me a year ago, and I regret not taking their advice sooner. We all agreed that the film adaptation didn't do the book justice. Perhaps they should be the ones curating best-seller lists, which often reflect sales rather than genuine reader enjoyment.

My husband’s book club makes some interesting selections; they’re currently diving into Sapiens, having recently read Nudge. These are the type of people I’d love to have on my trivia team—they’re all deep thinkers, which can be quite challenging for my brain!

Seeking Your Community

The reason I emphasize asking about others’ reading habits is simple: word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to discover new books.

People tend to select their next read based on recommendations rather than relying on best-seller lists, Amazon searches, or even browsing bookstore shelves or bargain sales.

My best tip? Seek out suggestions from those you know. If you share similar tastes in movies or Netflix shows, trust their judgment. How often have you chosen to watch a film based on a friend’s recommendation? Or opted out of a movie like Dune: Part Two because your circle didn’t enjoy it?

When it comes to bookstores, the recommendations from booksellers can be spot on. Instead of pondering which best-seller might suit your taste, approach a bookseller and say, “I need a book for my vacation.”

Bookseller: “What type of books do you enjoy?”

You: “I’m a fan of Frieda McFadden's dark mysteries.”

Bookseller: “In that case, you might enjoy xxx and yyy.”

You can also have a similar conversation with a librarian at your local library.

The Power of Algorithms

Amazon utilizes a recommendation system based on your browsing history. When you’re on Amazon, you’ll notice sections like “Frequently Bought Together” or “Customers Who Bought This Also Bought” on book pages.

Keep this in mind—Big Brother is aware of your reading preferences! Amazon even sends tailored emails based on your past searches.

Choosing your next captivating read isn’t as complex as it seems—unless, of course, you’re a fan of mystery and thrillers. Engage with your community and reliable sources to enhance your "To Be Read" list.

Join me each month in this column, Between the Lines, as we explore the art of editing. Feel free to reach out if you have any pressing editing questions.

Sandra Wendel is a nonfiction book editor, book coach, and author of the award-winning Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to Know about Editing. She also judges book awards and teaches college courses on writing. Sandra enjoys kayaking and is looking forward to the upcoming 18th edition of the Chicago Manual of Style, which is a bit eerie when you think about it.

Chapter 2: Engaging with Your Reading Community

In the spirit of discovering what others are reading, consider joining in discussions that can broaden your literary horizons.

The first video, What are you reading? A group discussion about books - YouTube, dives into various perspectives on reading choices.

Another insightful video, What Are You Reading? - YouTube, offers additional thoughts on the significance of sharing reading recommendations.