Every year I like to do a reading project. Normally, I try to read as many books as I am years old (which would be 45 this year). I continue to notice how my reading project will coincide with the rest of my life. In 2022, I was open to the abundance of life and possibility and that kind of carried over into 2023.  In 2024, I wanted to have a more focused approach around the things that I know I enjoy and indeed need to incorporate into my life. What I like matters and I have to let it matter. So this year, I am narrowing the scope down even further and I want to read 25 5-star reads in 2025. 

Here’s my rating system. I very rarely will give a book 1 or 2 stars. I generally DNF (did not finish) a book if I am not enjoying it. Three stars means I “liked” it. Four stars means I “really liked” it.  Five stars means I “loved” it. 

Twenty-five books turns out to be approximately two 5-star books per month. I am not married to the exact number of 25 or to the 5-stars. A 4-star read will work as well. So far, I am pleased with my progress. As of the end of March, I have read four 5-star reads and a 4-star read. 

A PSALM FOR THE WILD-BUILT by Becky Chambers ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I read this Monk and Robot novella, or its sequel, every New Year’s. It’s a lovely way to start my reading year. Dedicated to “Any one who could use a break”, I can’t think of a more appropriate book right now. 

THE RIVER HAS ROOTS by Amal EL-Mohtar ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This year, I am clearly having a thing for novellas and short stories. When I read the first line, I knew I was fully in. “The River Liss runs north to south, and its water brim with grammar.” The writing style put me in mind of an older text, beautiful but very accessible. But grammar as magic to this English major? Brilliant. It was delightful with a very satisfying ending.

HOW TO READ A BOOK by Monica Wood ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This March Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club pick was a complete and total 5-star surprise.  I was not expecting to love it as much as I did. If you liked Lily King’s WRITERS & LOVERS, I think you will enjoy this one.  Serious stuff happens but it is heartwarming and hopeful. 

MARBLE HALL MURDERS (Susan Ryeland #3) by Anthony Horowiotz ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I enjoy Horowitz’s Susan Ryeland series. And while this one wasn’t my favorite, I am always thrilled to spend more time with Ryeland and Pünd. I was introduced to MAGPIE MURDERS by a lovely listener to the What Should I Read Next? podcast. Releases May 13. 

THE KNIGHT AND THE BUTCHERBIRD by Alix E. Harrow ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I read every short story by Alix. E. Harrow writes. This one explores the lengths we will go to be with the ones that we love.  Beautifully written. 

What great book have you read recently?

enjoy life…