If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both a librarian and a lifelong reader, it’s this: life’s too short to read just one kind of book. Don’t get me wrong- I understand the comfort of a favorite genre. That cozy mystery where the cat solves the crime? Love it. That twisty thriller you can’t put down? Count me in. But if you’ve been reading the same flavor of fiction for a while, consider this your gentle nudge to explore a bit beyond the usual.
Reading across genres is like taking your brain on a series of mini vacations. One book might whisk you off to a medieval battlefield, while the next drops you into the middle of a 21st-century tech startup. The beauty of books is that they’re doorways- and there are so many doors to open. Why stick to just one hallway?
I read a little bit of everything: fiction, non-fiction, biographies, sci-fi, romance, historical fiction, memoirs, graphic novels, and more. Some days I want to fall in love, some days I want to learn something new, and other days I just want to laugh at an author’s quirky take on the world. Reading multiple genres keeps things fresh, engaging, and exciting. It’s like a literary buffet- and I always go back for more!
As a librarian, I often hear readers say, “I only read thrillers,” or “I’m just a fantasy person.” My follow-up is usually: “Have you tried this yet?” (insert my latest favorite book). Sometimes it just takes the right book to spark an interest in a genre you never thought you’d enjoy. I once recommended a non-fiction book about space exploration to a die-hard romance reader- and guess what? She came back asking for more science reads (and yes, she still reads romance, too).
Visiting bookstores is one of my favorite pastimes, and I treat it like a treasure hunt. I always explore every section, even the ones I think I know nothing about. I might leave with a novel, a memoir, a cookbook, and a graphic novel- and each one feels like a new adventure waiting to happen. And with the variety of reading formats out there- print, ebook, audiobook- there’s no excuse not to sneak in more reading wherever and whenever you can.
Audiobooks have become a game changer for me (Try Libby!). They let me “read” while I walk the dog, clean the house, or commute. Sometimes, a great narrator brings a story to life in a way that gives me a whole new appreciation for the book. Switching between audio and print also helps me work through multiple books at once without ever feeling bored.
Reading outside your comfort zone isn’t just entertaining- it’s good for your brain! Different genres encourage different ways of thinking. Non-fiction boosts your knowledge and critical thinking. Historical fiction gives context to the world around us. Sci-fi stretches your imagination. Memoirs build empathy. Comedy lightens the load. It’s like cross-training for your reading muscles!
So, if you’ve found yourself in a bit of a reading rut, give something new a try. Mix it up. Let your curiosity lead the way. You never know what book might become your next favorite read. And if it’s not your cup of tea? That’s okay. You can always try another. That’s the magic of books- there’s always another one waiting!
What about you? Are you a genre hopper or a loyalist? I’d love to hear what books pulled you into unexpected genres. Leave a comment and share your favorite surprise reads- I’m always looking to add to my ever-growing TBR list!