There are few things in life more comforting than getting lost in a good book. Picking up a brand new paperback bestseller or re-reading a careworn old favorite is a fantastic way to escape from reality and explore new worlds. Simply put, reading what you love makes you feel good. And it’s for this reason that most people tend to stick with their preferred authors and genres. You know exactly what gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling, so you intentionally seek out similar works that will replicate it. If you’re a sucker for a feel-good romance, you may not have explored the dark works of horror authors like HP Lovecraft and Anne Rice. And if you like to read autobiographies of your favorite celebs, you probably haven’t delved much into the world of classic fiction.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this, as there is no correct and proper way to read. Reading is a wonderful thing, and you should enjoy it however you see fit. However, sticking to a narrow spectrum of reading material prevents you from enjoying so many of the brilliant books out there. There is so much to be gained from expanding your reading habits. You will discover new favorites, learn more about the world, and become a more curious person as a result.
To get you started, here are five ways to broaden your literary horizons.
Try new genres
If you have your preferred genres, try to mix things up by throwing yourself a curveball. Make an effort to read something from a completely different genre that you’ve never explored before. There are masterpieces to be found in every single category of novels; you just need to seek them out.
Read unfamiliar topics
Fiction is fantastic for sparking your emotions and helping you to escape into worlds of fantasy. But non-fiction is just as worthy of praise, as it can teach you about the world and make you a more knowledgeable person. Whether you’re learning about the ancient Greeks, delivery truckloads, or the history of cinema, try to read books about new topics that you know little about.
Read diverse authors
Most people have a limited worldview and little understanding or empathy of the lives and struggles of authors. Choosing to read works from a diverse range of authors is one of the best ways to expand your mind and empathize with different viewpoints. Read more books from authors of different backgrounds, genders, ages, and political standings.
Join a book club
Joining a book club is a fantastic way to broaden your literary horizons, as you will mostly be reading the choices of others. Each week or month, you will gather with fellow bibliophiles to discuss the book you’ve just read and hash out different opinions and interpretations. Although you might not enjoy every book you are assigned, you are guaranteed to try something new.
Ask for recommendations
What better way to find new reading material than to ask your friends and family for recommendations? And the best bit is if you ask nicely, they might let you borrow their own copy!
Here are a few Mocha Girls Read recommendations
Mocha Girl Alysia
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