When I started 2024, I never imagined I’d end the year with 402 books under my belt. What began as a casual challenge turned into an unforgettable literary adventure that shaped my days and expanded my worldview. As an avid reader, who found her love for reading again at the end of 2023, 2024 has been a remarkable reading journey is all about expanding horizons and deepening connections. Last year, I aimed to prioritize books by BIPOC authors, diving into diverse narratives that reflect unique cultural experiences and voices. With a busy schedule, audiobooks continued to be my go-to for staying on track. I made it a point to include more South Asian and BIPOC authors in my fun reads. Seeing my culture reflected in characters’ lives or exploring narratives I hadn’t experienced before brought a sense of connection and joy that was uniquely fulfilling, following stories that delved into the complexities of identity, culture, and belonging. From gripping novels to thought-provoking memoirs, books have become a bridge to understanding the myriad human experiences that shape us.
I started the year off with a South Asian author, and it is only right that I ended the year on the same note! Without even trying, I balanced non-fiction with my fiction books, 1 out of four. While I love my fiction books, I am a lifelong learner and constantly looking for ways to educate and improve myself. For me, the magic lies in the balance. Some days, I crave the comfort of a cozy read. Other days, I’m eager to dive into something thought-provoking and educational. The key is variety. Alternating between genres, topics, and tones keeps my reading life dynamic and fulfilling. Reading for fun brings me joy; reading for education fuels my growth. Together, they create a rich, rewarding experience that goes beyond turning pages. They help me stay curious, connected, and engaged with the world around me.
Some amazing authors that I happen upon or found on social media (in no particular order) and their genres:
- Sajni Patel - South Asian - Contemporary Romance
- Tiffany Jackson - African American - YA, Thriller, Mystery
- Angeline Boulley - Native American - YA, Thriller, Mystery
- Tracey Deonn - African American - YA, Fantasy
- V. Castro - Mexican American - Horror
- R. F. Kuang - Chinese American - Fantasy
- Nisha Sharma - South Asian - Contemporary Romance, YA
- Claire M. Andrews - White - YA, Fantasy, Greek Mythology Retelling
- Freida McFadden - White - Thriller, Mystery
- Stacey Abrams (Selena Montgomery) - African American - Crime Thrillers
My favorite reads (again, in no particular order)!
Here are some of my reading stats (all metrics through StoryGraph):
As I plan my 2025 reading goals, I’m committed to continuing this balance. I’ll keep discovering books that make me laugh, cry, and think. And I’ll remember that no matter what I pick up next, there’s always something to gain—whether it’s a smile or a new perspective.
I have also chosen not to read/listen to books be Colleen Hoover and Sarah J. Maas. Seeing all the discourse and negativity surrounding Justin Baldoni trying to make a movie about DV and the author/Blake Lively, and the rest of the cast bullying and getting him booted off his passion project that he has been working on for the past 5 years. I've read three of her books and that was enough for me to know she's not my cup of tea. In regards to Sarah J. Maas, I have no desire to read ACOTAR due to her incorporation of Breonna Taylor's murder on the cover release of A Court of Silver Flames, as well as her lackluster inclusion of BIPOC and queer representation in her books.
How do you approach your reading life? Do you lean toward fun or educational reads, or do you try to mix both like I do? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear about your favorite books and what they’ve taught you!
Here’s to a new year of growth, discovery, and unforgettable stories!
Until next time...
