My Reading Year 2024 And My Goals For 2025

 Hello, fellow book lovers!

2024 was a good year for my reading life. After my overambitious reading goal in 2023, I set out to read 20 books, and I’m thrilled to say that I mostly reached that goal (I ended up reading 17 — close enough, right?). The biggest highlight of my reading year was the variety of genres I read. Some of my favourite reads from last year included Love Letters: Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West and Sunburn.

I made an effort to tackle my TBR pile—though let’s be honest, it’s never really "tackled." I still haven't read any of my beautiful Fairyloot books, but I bought a bunch of new books (which I all read!). All in all, I did make progress, and that feels like a win!

Now that 2024 is behind me, it’s time to set my sights on 2025. Here’s how I’m planning to shape my reading year:

1. How Many Books Will I Read?

In 2025, I’ve set myself the goal of reading 20 books again. I think part of the reason why I didn't reach my goal in 2024 was that I was stressed with work and didn't have the energy to read when I got home in the evening. However, at the end of the year I started reading on the bus to work, which seems to be the best reading time for me. 

2. Exploring New Genres

One of my big goals this year is to explore genres I don’t typically read. I’m hoping to step out of my comfort zone and try:

• Science Fiction: I’ve read a few sci-fi books here and there, but I’d like to dive deeper into some classic and modern sci-fi.
• Self-Development: A new addition to my list this year is a focus on self-development books. I want to read more books that challenge me to grow personally, whether it’s about improving productivity, mental well-being, or finding motivation in all aspects of life. I’ve already compiled a list of some books I’ve been curious about, and I’m excited to learn more this year.
• Thrillers and Mysteries: I’ve always enjoyed a good crime novel or a thrilling plot, but I want to challenge myself with darker, more intense stories that keep me on the edge of my seat.

Do any of these genres excite you too? Let me know in the comments if you have recommendations in these areas!

3. Tackling the TBR Pile

Ah, my TBR (To Be Read) pile… It hasn't grom much as I immediately read the new books I added to my collection., However, it’s time I take control of it. I have so many books I’ve been meaning to read for months (or even years), and I want to finally give them the attention they deserve. I want to read at least one book from my TBR every month. To stay organized, I select a set number of books each month to read, based on what I’m most excited about. One of these books has to be from my TBR pile. Hopefully, that will help me focus on the books I own instead of wandering off to the bookshops.

4. Reading More Queer Books

I think this will be the easiest goal for me because I tend to prefer queer books. However, this year, I’m aiming to read even more queer literature, whether it's contemporary fiction, memoirs, or fantasy novels. I want to immerse myself in stories from queer authors and those that explore LGBTQ+ experiences and identities.

What Are Your Reading Goals for 2025?

I’m so excited to start 2025 with these goals in mind, but I want to hear from you too! What are your reading goals for the year? Are you challenging yourself to read a certain number of books, or are you exploring new genres too? Share your goals in the comments—I’d love to hear them and maybe even add a few books to my own TBR!

With Love, Maxi