Wow the people in the comment section are pretty judgy. Some people read as escapism. Some people haven't read a lot and are trying to get into it so the goal of 10 books for the year may be a lot. Some people set out to read 100 books for the year and then hit a rough patch, but finishing that goal would really make them feel good and give them incentive to keep reading. Just because people don't read the way you do doesn't mean it's not valid. Maybe make your judgy comments to your real friends instead of trying to make strangers on the internet feel bad.

Ooo, I didn't know Nothing But Blackened Teeth was so short! Going to use it to crush my reading challenge. Maybe I'll even get the audiobook version and listen to it on my way to work. Thanks for the list, Goodreads!

Neil wrote: "Is this the section where I put forth my outrage at the idea of people reading to complete a challenge, rather than for some other reason, so I can gain some unearned moral superiority?

If so,......"

LOL

So are we going to have the same debate this time next year when GR has the same article?

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."


Are we seriously gatekeeping reading now?

Caroline wrote: "I'm so glad there are people that want to read because they enjoy it, not to make a statement or finish a challenge. It has seemed like the fun has gone out of reading because it's another competit..."

Caroline, it has been a loooong pandemic so pardon my snippiness, but are you seriously implying that those of us who enjoy lists and motivational challenges must simply be reading to "prove" something? This can't be what you meant. That because we keep track of the books we read and because we find that enjoyable and fun, we must not also read for the love of reading. Come on.

It’s a bit of fun. Don’t play if you don’t want to.

Jim wrote: "Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out..."

Sorry - this is ableist nonsense. It's not to you to police how others read.

Some of these comments are trying to get on this list...

I find it ironic that commentary about a perhaps poorly considered headline, meant to be catchy, has spawned discussions about reading goals and reasons for them being the thing that diverts attention from the books; and in so doing is diverting attention from this list of books. Totally grin worthy, at least.

Every single one of us reads for our own reasons and every single one of those reasons are valid. Even if you're only reading to impress others (who spends hours and hours doing that if they hate it?) it doesn't matter, as long as you are reading. Of course this is my opinion and it's the way I do things and I wouldn't dream of telling someone else how they should read or whether their reasons are valid. Perhaps not MY reasons or right for ME, but the validity of others reading habits isn't mine to decide.

I find the ability to quickly sort and see a chronological, graphical presentation of my reading lists inordinately convenient for at least a half a dozen things I discuss, write about, look up, and sundry regarding books. So I set my goal low (for me) because the real goal is to get the badge (on the profile page) that makes it easy to go straight to the sorted page (so beautifully presented with bigger covers that I can actually see with my decrepit old eyes). I usually double to double and a half my set goal every year, but I count everything. Audiobooks, ebooks, hard copy, short stories, novellas, manga, graphic novels. I recently started listening to the audiobook version of an ongoing series that is published for free online. I'm pretty sure it's another one of those things that started out as fanfiction and kind of took flight. I COULD read the online version and just mark off the books, but I absolutely love the audiobooks, so I wait for them to be released and pay for them. The audiobook is a different way to experience the book, and in this case it's one that I enjoy.

Many of you would say I shouldn't count an audiobook at all. I'm all good with that if that's how you want to do it. But I actually like having the list to refresh my memory, the reviews to remind me about the book and what I liked or not about it, and a list close by to let me know how many in that series I've read so far. So I count them so that I don't end up re-reading things, and so I have quick access to info about the books I read.

But some of you may do the challenge because the numbers are important. I have to own a tiny bit of smugness when I look at my annual totals and know without a doubt that I am not really a tv person. ;) But there are several people on my friends list who out pace me by a mile every year. I WISH I could consume stories that quickly. As they say - so many books, so little time. But alas, my memory will only do so much.

We all have our own reasons for doing it the way we do it, and it's all valid.

ETA: If you need an example of exceptional short works, read The Murderbot Diaries series by Martha Wells (I think only one of the books is a full length novel). Perhaps the best character ever written. Just thinking about those books makes me smile.

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

Goodreads is owned by Amazon. Amazon wants to sell more books. Therefore they will push shorter books so you will buy more of them.

Neil wrote: "Is this the section where I put forth my outrage at the idea of people reading to complete a challenge, rather than for some other reason, so I can gain some unearned moral superiority?

If so,......"

Very on point. Their arrogance is astounding.

Caeru wrote: Are we seriously gatekeeping reading now?



Someone must save reading from these *kids these days* with their social media habits. :))))

Actually I planned to finish tbr list - frm e-books and physical copies . It's my bad that I didn't picked any of them this time because I always pick new books from the articles of goodreads !

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

500 books in a year? That isn't possible. Unless they are picture books?

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

I am right there with you on this subject. I set my reading challenge in order to push myself to read more often instead of picking up the phone. I don't need the stress of trying to tick another box. If anyone need a real challenge, start counting the pages one reads in a year instead of books.

How/why are we having this debate again? Wasn’t this the topic a week ago? *sigh*
My book awaits.

Michelle wrote: "Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out..."
Yes, that’s what I put in an earlier comment that people include books they have read to their children in their “totals”. I have one friend who has the ability (she doesn’t know how or why) to read and comprehend entire paragraphs at a time and she is so humble about this gift- she’s the only person I would ever truly believe could read 500 books in a year. Happy reading to you!

In response to Anna... Different motivations for different people.

Some are in this just for the numbers. And from watching lots of booktubers you realise many acquire books because they're trending, without knowing a single thing about the plot (many say this openly). It's mainly to gain followers, likes, etc. The general YA genre is a good way to rope in a new, young audience, which is why it's so popular on bookish social media, regardless of quality.

Others simply have a goal because they may have a large TBR list. Or they simply wish to read more. So it's like a personal goal or challenge, not reading just for the sake of increasing numbers.

GR knows the drill, and knows exactly what they're promoting. But it's up to YOU to utilise this forum in the way that benefits YOU. If others want to read 200-500 books for their own reasons, great. But you do you.

I dont know about any of that. I love to read. I am a avid reader. I read 100 books a year for the past 5 years. It seems to me I read the new authors. My reviews are really for me. If a friend gives me a book recommendation I can look up and say I read it. And if it was good for me. If they want book recommendations I can give them one. It keeps track of all my books I can look ahead or look back. To get a 5 star rating it has to be different and one I can talk about 3 weeks later. The 5 star books I remember why I read them and years later I still remember why. I dont ever read a book twice.

Mara wrote: "I can't believe there's an argument over this. Some of us like having reading challenges because it motivates us to read more. I find personal satisfaction in meeting my reading goal for the year. ..."

yep, agree!

Anna wrote: "Great list. I have a copy of How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House can't wait to read it."
Yep. This is exactly what I thought. Couldn’t agree more.

I enjoy articles like this because shorter books tend to help me get out of a reading slump and bonus points that I can add to my reading challenge quickly!

Goodreads is owned by Amazon. Amazon sells books. It's all about its having access to the largest social media book niche in the world. Anything that can be done to promote and push book buying is in the interest of their bottomless pocketbook. End of story.

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

Very important message. Reading is not about quantity-- I have fallen into this trap in the past, I'm sad to say. Rather, it's about quality-- not necessarily of the book, but the quality of your experience reading it and what you get out of it.

I think quantitative goals can be helpful in pushing you to read more frequently, but it's important not to lose sight of why you're reading in the first place.

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

You are not alone my dear. If you are on a different planet, I'm your neighbor.

Laila wrote: "People read for many different reasons and participate on Goodreads for different reasons. What does it matter if some people get excited about “crushing” their goal? Let them be excited. And that ..."
well said! I have my goal and I am kind of sure I am not going to make it and it is ok, I enjoy reading and this is the most important thing.

Wow. Some have forgotten to meditate before their morning coffee. I appreciate and understand a curated list. I do not have any anxiety from having received the list.

Look at all the book snobs, smh. Reading is reading, period. Genre doesn't matter, format doesn't matter, and length doesn't matter. DON'T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON AUDIOBOOKS. If you don't like audiobooks, cool, but don't think you're even an ounce better than anyone else. Stop gatekeeping. Also, I hardly doubt many people on GR are using the reading challenge for clout, like what? Is that a bragging point?

A lot of y'all don't listen to Reading Glasses and it shows. Just a bunch of trash babies.

Nicoletta wrote: "I have my goal and I am kind of sure I am not going to make it and it is ok, I enjoy reading and this is the most important thing.i..."

I am a slow reader and don't read nearly as many books as many people do (I am always impressed at people reading 50+ books a year!), so I always set my goal relatively low, at 25 books a year. I always try and read that at a minimum, and some years it is a struggle to read that many, some years I far surpass it (and then increase my goal in increments of five if I am able to read more than year). While I know it's alright to not make your goal, I always strive to finish, and sometimes I will look for short/easy reads to make my goal.

Peeps the under-200 section!

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

I decided to do the 100 books in a year challenge. Yes, I get what you're saying, but let me tell you, it has really helped me focus on reading and it has been WONDERFUL. I've forced myself to read books I've started long ago and books I've bought, but never got around to, and then I've read so many other books I've never even thought to read, discovered new favorite authors. It's been a thrilling year. Maybe you and some others have a natural habit of reading, or simply read when you want to, and I do not judge. But I'm really happy I was able to push myself to do this. I want to read all of the books all of the time. Doing this challenge may have fundamentally changed my mind to being an actively engaged reader of many books. It's exciting not becauses of some number, but because of the books I've absorbed into my brain. Not for everyone though, I understand. For me, it makes me accountable to myself to place a priority on reading.

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."
I think people are on Goodreads because they love books. Then they see there is a Goal challenge and they think, "Oh, OK. I'll put something in." Even if reading many books is not their object. But then, with a goal, they get caught up in it. That happened to me. I had never counted my yearly books before and it became sort of a craze. Not that I read short books to make numbers. But then, in Dec, if I was close to my goal, but might not make it, a list of short books to help accomplish it was welcome. It really doesn't mean ANYTHING! I still read good books for enjoyment, I am not reading trash just so I could say I did. If I pick short books in December, I still pick GOOD short books that interest me. What does it matter, it's all just a game! I admit, the phrase "crush your challenge" caught my attention and at first I thought, Whaaat? Then I realized what they were getting at. Anyway, your comment has merit, but people can do as they like and do what they enjoy, and if it's challenges that they enjoy, then, more power to them! I feel like I'm getting double enjoyment, reading books I love AND fulfilling a challenge!

After reading some of the comments I feel compelled to say thanks for putting this together! I'm an avid, but slow reader compared to others. It's been a goal of mine to complete the PopSugar challenge for years but always end up missing the mark by one or two titles, so thanks Goodreads!

I thought I was the only one looking for short books to complete my challenge! Grateful for this list - some really cool titles on here.

Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out of them. It’..."

Oh, Anna, I think this is our culture - i.e,. more is better. What nonsense! I feel that some people just run though a book and say they have read it. This was happening in one of my book groups - silly books and then we got there and silly talk. I don't attend anymore. Not much depth since the one woman who really thought about books and expressed her thoughts coherently is not there. Unfortunately, she died unexpectedly about a year ago. There is nothing there for me anymore. I am an old teacher - keep reading, keep thinking - I try to learn from everything. In my older years, I have had a lot of physical problems so I try to learn from it. For example, I now have to use a cane or walker to get around - arthritis and other stuff - but I now know how handicapped people feel - trying to open a heavy door when you are holding something: the other hand holding your cane to keep from falling down. Keep learning - think about what you are reading - how does it apply to you, to others. You are the smart one. Get a tee shirt that says: I read books so I know a lot. or something like that. Ignore that counting stuff. Although I do admit that I count how many books I read per year - it is somewhat of a measuring tool since I have retired. It is never the amount that Goodreads has for me. Don't know how we are different, don't care. My reading is what matters to me. I ignore the first of the year challenge thing, yet I end up with a goal of 100 per year. Maybe I put that down one year. I have no personal goals about how many books I read. I have personal goals to read a bunch of books and I chop away at that list when I read some on the list and them I read stuff that is just here and I want to reread it, e.g., The Sparrow.
You are one smart cookie - keep reading and thinking. Thinking is the hard part. That is why we are on goodreads and various lists, so we can see what others think and do our own thinking. Thanks for writing. peace, janz

Jim wrote: "Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out..."
I agree - read what your want. Think. Then post a review if you think others may want some info on the book. Or if your view is opposite the norm or if your view is the same as the one who has posted and you want to encourage them.
Also, you are absolutely right - listening to a voice reading a book while you are doing something else and seeing a movie are NOT reading! Reading is holding a book in your hand and THINKING. I discount anyone's view about a movie or listening to a recording. My recordings are music. Good thinking , Jim. Thank you for posting. peace, janz

Jim wrote: "Why is an opinion that is not yours immediately labeled an argument? The person asked a question and people have answered it in a variety of ways. Agreement was not requested, nor was consulting wi..."

Jim, Amen. Amen, Amen. You said it, brother. Thanks. opposite opinion is not argument, contrary to many people in politics. Thanks for this posting. peace, janz

For anyone who wants suggestions for short books, I read a couple of short story collections this year that I really enjoyed: Land of Big Numbers by Te-Ping Chen and Home of the Floating Lily by Silmy Abdullah.

Other short books I read and enjoyed over the past few years: Scarborough by Catherine Hernandez; That Time I Loved You by Carrianne Leung; and Floating in My Mother's Palm by Ursula Hegi.

I'd hardly call a nearly-300-page book a short story. Lots of regular-sized books on the list. Disappointing.

I don't think there's an "argument" here - some folks are certainly expressing that they hope people are getting more depth out of the challenge than checking a box. I hope so, too, while I do also enjoy checking a box and feeling accomplished (and meeting my reading goals).

Outside of the "what are other people reading and how fast" thing though... you're kidding yourselves if you think this list is somehow NOT marketing. GR is owned by Amazon. They want you to buy more books. They honestly don't care if you actually read them, or not.

Inna wrote: "Can't believe this has not even one Murderbot story... #inconceivable"

My sentiments exactly!

Gustavo wrote: "I'd hardly call a nearly-300-page book a short story. Lots of regular-sized books on the list. Disappointing."

I was thinking the same thing!

Viktoriya wrote: "Anna wrote: "I’m afraid I don’t understand the very concept of this list.
Why would anyone want to “crush” their reading challenge?
It sounds like people no longer read books to get something out..."

I don't care about reading challenges but I appreciate the list of shorter books. I dunno, sometimes I just like to read shorter books. This is a big argument about nothing.

Can I count some of these comments as books they are surely that long lol. I agree with you all though however. This year I challenged my self to read 50 books and by July I was over half way there and upped my number. Of course some of this is because I work at a preschool and read a chapter book during rest time everyday I include those books in my challenge. I also listen to audiobooks on my hour drive so those are included plus I read as I go to sleep just another book to add. I don’t question and analyze the books as I read to escape the world. Well that is what I do to each their own. And here I writing a book of a comment sorry.

I'm gonna read LATER by Stephen King

Deanna wrote: "Read what you want and stop stressing about what other people are reading to the point that you feel the need to write long-winded comments about it. Doesn't affect you! I think this list is great...." Absolutely true!

Viktoriya wrote: "Isn't it a bit neurotic of a message to make people read shorter (even if interesting) stories to "crush" the challenge and tick off more boxes for the sake of it? Let's start marking a 5-page maga..."

Anna wrote: "Great list. I have a copy of How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House can't wait to read it."

Well, you have to remember that GR is now owned by Amazon, hence the more you read, possibly the more you buy (unless you borrow from the library). ;-)

Mary wrote: "Viktoriya wrote: "Isn't it a bit neurotic of a message to make people read shorter (even if interesting) stories to "crush" the challenge and tick off more boxes for the sake of it? Let's start mar..."

Exactly. Hence my comment about the social media👌 bring on The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power

And then there are audio books…..