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Hide a Book with Goodreads on September 18th (with Updates)
-Hazel, The Fault in Our Stars
You have (at least!) one. That favorite book you recommend over and over again. You love it, and you want the rest of the world to experience it. Now's your chance to make that happen.
This year, as part of our Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration, Goodreads is teaming up with our fellow book lovers at The Book Fairies for a special Hide a Book Day on Monday, September 18.
Who exactly are The Book Fairies? They're readers who hide books around the world for people to find, read, and pass on. Anyone can take part. There are currently over 5,000 Book Fairies sharing books in 100 countries—one of them is Emma Watson, who has hidden copies of her Our Shared Shelf book club's picks in Paris, London, and New York City.
Join us on Monday, September 18 in hiding our favorite books for other readers to find and enjoy. Don't forget to ask a friend to do it, too! Here's everything you need to know to get involved.
Book Fairy Emma Watson hides
copies of The Handmaid's Tale in Paris.
Select Your Favorite Books
We know this is easier said than done. Take your time browsing your own shelves. What book would you want an unsuspecting passerby to discover? Will it be a beloved classic or an irresistible bestseller?
Order Your Stickers
We have custom Goodreads and Book Fairies stickers to put on the covers of each of your hidden books. Order them here! Update: Unfortunately, it is now unlikely that you would get your stickers in time for the official date (The Book Fairies are based in the UK). Some people are making their own bookmarks, and you're welcome to use our downloadable note, too.
Find Your Perfect Hiding Spot
Where will you hide your books? Keep the weather in mind for any outdoor locations (soggy books are sad books) and remember that the books should be hidden…but not too hidden (abandoned books are the saddest). Some of our favorite hiding spots: train and bus stations, national monuments and museums, and parks.
Share Your Books
Once you've hidden a book, take a picture and share it with your fellow Goodreads members and Book Fairies on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram using the hashtags #goodreadsturns10, #hideabookday, #ibelieveinbookfairies.
Decisions, decisions… What book will you leave for other readers to find on September 18?
We hope you'll join us on Monday, September 18. RSVP to our Facebook event here and invite your friends to participate! Invite your friends to participate and tell us what book you want to hide in the comments!
UPDATE: We can't wait to celebrate our inaugural Hide a Book Day with you on Monday, September 18! It's been wonderful seeing everyone's enthusiasm for the event and we look forward to seeing which books you share with the world in your social media posts—don't forget to use the following hashtags: #goodreadsturns10 #hideabookday and #ibelieveinbookfrairies.
Several commenters have suggested including a note with the book. To make things easier, we've created a simple note you can download, add a personal message to, and sign. (Of course, you can just use the note as it is too.) You can download it here.
Since we're a few days away, we've provided answers for some of your burning questions…
Q: "I would love to participate, but I don't think many people in Peru are going to participate."
A: We'd love for you to be the first! And who knows, you may find there are others hiding books too. We're seeing comments from people all around the world.
Q: "I love this idea and I would love to participate, but September 18th is a Monday and I have school. Is September 18th the only day we can do this?"
A: Monday, September 18th is the official event day, but you can still participate at a time or day that works for you. It's absolutely fine to go one day early or wait until the next weekend.
Q: "Where should I hide my book? Any suggestions?"
A: Chief Book Fairy Cordelia recommends interesting statues and monuments, as well as doorways, sheltered benches, and shopping centers. She says, "The list goes on and you can get really creative." The main thing is to choose somewhere people walk by often and that the book is still easy to find. And don't forget to keep the book out of the rain—some people are going to use a clear plastic bag as an extra precaution.
Q: "Is this a US-only type thing? I'm not sure if I ordered stickers today they'd get here in time."
A: This event is for everyone in all countries! That being said, it is now unlikely that you would get your stickers in time for the official date (The Book Fairies are based in the UK). Some people are making their own bookmarks, and you're welcome to use our downloadable note, too.
Q: "So, I have to get rid of my favorite book? What's up with that? I like my books. Or do we buy a new one to do this with?"
A: You don't have to buy a new book for this event, but you certainly can—after all, we know how hard it is to part with a favorite book. Whether it's new or used, just share a book you think another reader would love! It's all up to you!
Several commenters have suggested including a note with the book. To make things easier, we've created a simple note you can download, add a personal message to, and sign. (Of course, you can just use the note as it is too.) You can download it here.
Since we're a few days away, we've provided answers for some of your burning questions…
Q: "I would love to participate, but I don't think many people in Peru are going to participate."
A: We'd love for you to be the first! And who knows, you may find there are others hiding books too. We're seeing comments from people all around the world.
Q: "I love this idea and I would love to participate, but September 18th is a Monday and I have school. Is September 18th the only day we can do this?"
A: Monday, September 18th is the official event day, but you can still participate at a time or day that works for you. It's absolutely fine to go one day early or wait until the next weekend.
Q: "Where should I hide my book? Any suggestions?"
A: Chief Book Fairy Cordelia recommends interesting statues and monuments, as well as doorways, sheltered benches, and shopping centers. She says, "The list goes on and you can get really creative." The main thing is to choose somewhere people walk by often and that the book is still easy to find. And don't forget to keep the book out of the rain—some people are going to use a clear plastic bag as an extra precaution.
Q: "Is this a US-only type thing? I'm not sure if I ordered stickers today they'd get here in time."
A: This event is for everyone in all countries! That being said, it is now unlikely that you would get your stickers in time for the official date (The Book Fairies are based in the UK). Some people are making their own bookmarks, and you're welcome to use our downloadable note, too.
Q: "So, I have to get rid of my favorite book? What's up with that? I like my books. Or do we buy a new one to do this with?"
A: You don't have to buy a new book for this event, but you certainly can—after all, we know how hard it is to part with a favorite book. Whether it's new or used, just share a book you think another reader would love! It's all up to you!
Comments Showing 101-150 of 429 (429 new)
Cordelia wrote: "Haley wrote: "Cordelia wrote: "Haley wrote: "Just purchased my book marks and stickers! For those wondering it cost me about $11 USD from two sets of bookmarks with shipping. I'm excited to do thi..."
I just bought a tote from Daunt Books on my trip to London, but I still want the Book Fairy one so bad. I'll take it with me when I start going around town with my Book Fairy books <3
And: hi, Cordelia! :D I thought your name sounded familiar, I've seen it on Instagram so many times.
Suvi wrote: "Cordelia wrote: "Haley wrote: "Cordelia wrote: "Haley wrote: "Just purchased my book marks and stickers! For those wondering it cost me about $11 USD from two sets of bookmarks with shipping. I'm ..."
Hi Suvi! Nice to meet you. Not a bad choice - Daunt Books have so so so many goodies!
Zoë wrote: "Shana wrote: "Think i will hide my copy of Percy Jackson The lightening theif by Rick Riordan. It was one of my favorites by him but i has some good notes they hit on like believing in yourself but..."Its not like i really want to give it away i love it but if someone else who finds can get as much enjoyment out of it then it was worth it.
Shirley wrote: "Wouldn't it be better to promote Bookcrossing who have been promoting just this for ages? www.bookcrossing.com"Came here just to say the same thing! I've registered a few thousand books at BookCrossing! Maybe I should both labels on some books and release them at Little Free Libraries, which is another thing that's almost the same....
Shirley wrote: "Wouldn't it be better to promote Bookcrossing who have been promoting just this for ages? www.bookcrossing.com"I agree completely! Why is Goodreads horning in on this concept? Why not promote BookCrossing? And they have free downloadable labels!
Cheryl wrote: "Shirley wrote: "Wouldn't it be better to promote Bookcrossing who have been promoting just this for ages? www.bookcrossing.com"I agree completely! Why is Goodreads horning in on this concept? Why..."
Why not promote Book Fairies? I don't see a problem in giving attention to lesser known concepts as well, and it's not exactly a requirement to use the official labels. To each his own.
Well, it certainly seems to me that Book Fairies is plagiarizing Bookcrossing.But the ideas can be combined; each book released/ hidden could have both labels on it.
This is day is on my brother's birthday, oh my gosh!
Cheryl wrote: "Well, it certainly seems to me that Book Fairies is plagiarizing Bookcrossing.But the ideas can be combined; each book released/ hidden could have both labels on it."
They're slightly different in their execution (Bookcrossing is more about tracking books), so I wouldn't accuse them of plagiarism. But sure, if someone wants to release a book with both labels, by all means.
I just think there's room for everyone, including Books on the Subway and Books on the Underground. Releasing books isn't and shouldn't be a monopoly.
Just noting that there are 2 Cheryls posting here...although it appears we agree.I have wondered if leaving books around is a problem anywhere, such as leaving an unattended book in an airport waiting area, or if they are small enough not to cause alarm.
Suvi wrote: "Cheryl wrote: "Well, it certainly seems to me that Book Fairies is plagiarizing Bookcrossing.But the ideas can be combined; each book released/ hidden could have both labels on it."
They're slig..."
Yes, there are a few of us sharing books - and we know each other and work together :) In fact, book fairies and BookCrossing often do things together and have both stickers on. Even if someone simply wants to pop a post it on the front saying FREE BOOK! and write a note inside - that's great too :)
There is a public Bookshelf in a small park in my city. I love to go there and to browse through the books, leaving some of my own to find new readers.
Even if it's not hidden ;)
Nicole wrote: "There is a public Bookshelf in a small park in my city. I love to go there and to browse through the books, leaving some of my own to find new readers.
Even if it's not hidden ;)"
Ah you are so lucky! Those little bookshelves are fantastic and can open you up to new genres and books you might never have considered :)
I'm in! I have 21 books lined up of doubles, classics, extras that I received for reviews that I will share, share, share! Including:
Kay Hooper's Haunted
Lore's The Power of Six
Nicholas Flamel's The Alchemyst
Margaret Dickinson's Red Sky in The Morning
Linsay Sands' The Brat
Linda Howard's Dying to Please
Emily Bradshaw's Bounty Bride
Douglas Preston's The Monster of Florence
(2) Libba Bray's A Great And Terrible Beauty
Colleen Coble's Butterfly Palace
Philippa Gregory's The Favored Child
24 Karat Gold Bathroom Reader
Tami Hoag's Night Sins
Nevada Barr's Deep South
Erica Spindler's Cause For Alarm
Glenna McReynolds' Prince of Time
Dean Koontz's The Face
Dean Koontz's The Husband
Nevada Barr's Blood Lure
Virginia Henley's Notorious
Rose Quartz wrote: "Is there any way this could happen in South America?"there are many groups in bookcrossing.com that have been doing this for about 15 years. many in south america, i have released and chased books several times
Melissa wrote: "I love this idea, but would it be possible to have bookmarks that can be ordered or printed? I'm one of those people who hate to put stickers on books. Thanks!"With you on this one! Would love bookmarks instead of stickers.
this is such a neat idea....I love it !!!! I'm thinking of doing it and hope to come across one myself
the Artful Dodger ~{Even the Most Ignorent, Innocent Child Will Eventually Grow Up as They Learn What True Pain Is}~ wrote: "Gosh, the only problem is, I can't bear to part with the numerous copies I have of The Little Prince."www.thriftbooks.com
The first book I ever borrowed from the library.
I've participated in the book crossing program or something similar (my older sister forced me to part with several books this way)--where you write the date read, your name, and where you're from; then you pass the book to someone else, so on.But this idea is cute. One little problem, I'm very attached to my books and can't bear to part with them. Plus, I'm not sure if this will be a thing in Japan.
Isabella wrote: "I love this idea, but how high are the chances that besides me someone in Vienna would participate?!"
This was exactly my thought, Isabella!
I like the idea, but 5000 people around the whole world - how are the odds?
I use public bookcases a lot, with them you know the books you left will be 'found' by someone who wants to read instead of getting thrown away as trash
This was exactly my thought, Isabella!
I like the idea, but 5000 people around the whole world - how are the odds?
I use public bookcases a lot, with them you know the books you left will be 'found' by someone who wants to read instead of getting thrown away as trash
Andrea wrote: "Melissa wrote: "I love this idea, but would it be possible to have bookmarks that can be ordered or printed? I'm one of those people who hate to put stickers on books. Thanks!"With you on this on..."
There are bookmarks too :)
Jessika wrote: "I would participate but...In Japan the Japanese are so kind that they would chase after me and give me my book back thinking that I accidentally left it behind. Haha!"Yes we have found it is a little tricky - so instead we approach owners of hostels etc, to ask if we can leave the books there - and that seems to work!
Janet wrote: "I'm in! I have 21 books lined up of doubles, classics, extras that I received for reviews that I will share, share, share! Including:
Kay Hooper's Haunted
Lore's The Power of Six
Nicholas Flamel's..."
Wow!!!! Such a great collection!
Ladie wrote: "I bought my stickers!"whahooooooo!
instead of using stickers and bookmarks, can I just leave a note or something?
Melissa wrote: "I love this idea, but would it be possible to have bookmarks that can be ordered or printed? I'm one of those people who hate to put stickers on books. Thanks!"I just browsed the Book Fairy site and they do have bookmarks. I don't think they have the Goodreads stickers in bookmarks, though. But, I didn't look closely at them.
Michelle :)
Sonja wrote: "This is great! We actually have a take-a-book/leave-a-book stand at our favorite park and I am forever 'donating' to it! Do you happen to have any bookmarks or book clips to be used instead of a s..."
They have a lot of different products on their website, but I think if you want the "Goodreads" items you're stuck with stickers. But if you just want to use the "Book Fairy" items, there are things other than stickers. I didn't look closely, but I saw bookmarks.
I love the idea of a Take a Book/Leave a Book! Does your local library run the stand? Or another community program?
Michelle :)
Madhu wrote: "Would love to participate. How about making a download available for the sticker instead of having to order them."yes!
I suggest looking for copies of your favorite books at second-hand sources. For example, there is a flea market near me that has thousands of pre-read books!
Katherine wrote: "Every year when we take our two month road trip across the US, I pack a tote bag of books and leave them in our motel lobby or breakfast room or laundry--hopefully other guests or the staff pick th..."That's an awesome idea!! :D
This is a great idea. but I just visit the Little Free Libraries in my area and exchange one of my books for one in the library. No stickers required. Some of these libraries are in really out of the way places. I also leave books all over town. I don't like the idea of a sticker on my book so paper cliping them on sounds good to me as long as it doesn't damage the book. Some kind of a download sounds good also. Then I could print as needed all year around not just on one day.
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman :)
I love this idea! The books that I would want to hide/recommend are: The Little Prince (my favourite), The Alchemist (in my opinion one of the greatest stories ever) and 100 Years of Solitude.
Leo (velleochor) wrote: "instead of using stickers and bookmarks, can I just leave a note or something?"Of course! We find that the sticker means it is far more likely to be picked up, that's all :)
Aleksandra wrote: "I love this idea! The books that I would want to hide/recommend are: The Little Prince (my favourite), The Alchemist (in my opinion one of the greatest stories ever) and 100 Years of Solitude."Great choices!
Elaine wrote: "I suggest looking for copies of your favorite books at second-hand sources. For example, there is a flea market near me that has thousands of pre-read books!"That's the book fairy spirit!
Shirley wrote: "Wouldn't it be better to promote Bookcrossing who have been promoting just this for ages? www.bookcrossing.com"I agree. Bookcrossing doesn't get enough love.
You couldn't have picked a more perfect day. September 18th is my second sons birthday, and he LOVES books, he's always top reader in his class.
Wonderful idea. Happy tenth birthday goodreads!
Ryan wrote: "Melissa wrote: "I love this idea, but would it be possible to have bookmarks that can be ordered or printed? I'm one of those people who hate to put stickers on books. Thanks!"Me too. My favorite ..."
I just ordered and they do have bookmarks 😉
I think this is a great concept and want to participate. However, I need an idea or two as to where to hide my book. Suggestions???
Yes! Someone's trash might be someone else's treasure. I have a lot of books I feel indifferent about (partly because my tastes have changed over the years), so I'm going to reserve some of them for Book Fairy duties.