Challenges have been my go-to resource for getting through my massive To-Read Pile. I’ve relied on Goodreads’s annual reading challenge for several years to help track my progress, and while I love the handy counters and end-of-the-year statistics, picking a reasonable goal has always been a sticking point.
This year, I’ve decided to use tools that I know work for me — lists and colorful graphics! I’ll be setting my Goodreads goal for 10 books. When I finish those, I’ll bump it up to 20. Upon completing that, I’ll set the goal to 30. And so on, until we reach the end of the year.
In the spirit of trying new things, I’ve also decided to create a reading list to work from. Ideally, I’ll be getting through these and posting a brand new set around the same time I bump my Goodreads goal up to 20… but we’ll just have to wait and see. It’s always got to be mystery with us mood-based readers.
Cinders & Sparrows by Stefan Bachmann
I absolutely ADORED Stefan Bachmann’s dark Gothic storytelling in The Peculiar duology, so I know this witchy adventure is going to be an instant favorite. Critics are comparing it to Howl’s Moving Castle, so you know my expectations are sky high.
Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech
I’ve been working my way through Sharon Creech’s body of work and Walk Two Moons has been on my nightstand for months. I’m slightly embarrassed to admit it’s been gathering dust, but if this is like any of her other books, I’ll be finishing it in one sitting once I start.
All You Knead is Love by Tanya Guerrero
I was offered an ARC copy of this wonderful coming-of-age story and have technically already begun reading it, but it’s been sitting quietly on my Kindle through the holidays and I need to jump back in ASAP. Mouth-watering descriptions of yeasty dough, here we go!
The Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom by Chistopher Healy
This trilogy has been highly recommended based purely on the humor and cast of characters, and I’ve been pretty stubborn about starting because I’m so bad at getting through a series. Enough of this nonsense! I need a good laugh, and I believe this is a book that can deliver a good punchline.
The Quest to the Uncharted Lands
I’ve taken far too long to get to this third and final installment of the World of Solace collection, which is hilarious considering how much I adored the other two books. This science/fantasy hybrid is just the thing to kick off an adventurous new year!
Tune it Out by Jamie Sumner
I’ll admit, this is a book I want to read based entirely on the cover artwork. I’m not generally a fan of music-based stories, but I’m intrigued to see how it will tie in with the main character’s sensory processing disorder. It should be an eye-opening read!
The Evil Wizard Smallbone by Delia Sherman
I’ve joked in the past that my favorite reading genre is “books with a house on the cover” and this one has oh-so sweetly been calling my name. I’m a little shocked I haven’t gotten around to reading it yet, so this year I’m making it my number one priority.
The Inn Between by Marina Cohen
All I actually know about this book is that it’s quite scary, and frankly that’s all I needed to hear. I’ve been meaning to read more Middle Grade Horror, so bring it on!
Restart by Gordon Korman
I don’t believe I’ve read anything by Gordon Korman to date, and it’s high time I got an introduction! This one is about a bully with amnesia, and I’m really interested to see how that situation plays out.
All’s Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson
I’m always looking for a new favorite graphic novel, and I think renaissance-themed humor is just the ticket. This will be my first introduction to Victoria Jamieson’s work and I’m so excited to see what all the hype is about!
Are any of these reads on your 2021 TBR?
- Share what books you’re excited to read in the comments below!
- Recommend a book you think I’d like based on this round of selections.
- Have a Middle Grade book coming out soon? Send me an ARC review request via my contact page.
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Elza Kinde 
I’m always impressed with your graphics, especially since I’m such rubbish at them! I like your plan of meeting your goal and then going beyond it. A lot less anxiety all around.
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I’m really enjoying that Goodreads isn’t telling me I’m X books behind schedule, so I think it’s going to be a good change!
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