How Does This Challenge (And Others) Help?

[Karol]

Now that we're several months into the year, I'm curious - how does it help you to take part in a challenge like the 75 book challenge? Are there other challenges you are taking part in, too?

And, since this is my first time to moderate a group, do you have any suggestions on things I can do better or differently to make this an even better space for you?

[Merri]

I think it makes me think before I put on the boob tube- maybe I should read! Personally I doubt I will make 75 books since I pretty much lost almost 2 months with my move! However- I read 49 last year so i will at least try to beat that.

The problem i am having is that I think twice before i start a really big book because i know it will take time to finish.

[Fiona (Titch)]

I like to know how many books I get read in a year and my monthly reads are not always high. Depends on what I have read or listened to that month.

[Michelegg]

I'm loving this challenge Kay. And you're doing a great job moderating it. Thank you.

I have my plan all mapped out in my head, how many I need to read every month and I'm enjoying that. I get towards the end of the month, like now, and realize that I still have two more books I need to read to reach that goal and that's very motivating.

Thanks again Kay!

[Karol]

Well, thanks for the compliment, Michele! Merri and Fiona, thanks for the comments . . .

[Stacie]

I like seeing what I've been reading... it keeps me from feeling like I'm wasting my weekends, lol. Plus I really appreciate being able to read what others are reading and what their impressions were; I've added several books to my to-read list based on recommendations from people here :) I appreciate the way you are supportive and welcoming to everyone.

[Karol]

Thanks, Stacie. I'm glad you feel welcomed here! And like you, I keep adding to my "To Read" list many titles from this group!

[Andrea, Moderator]

Kay, I think you are doing a fantastic job! The challenge has helped me to read even when I felt like I was heading towards a slump. Like Stacie I really enjoy reading what others have read and adding their recommendations to my own list. I think I'm at 19 book read and I was hoping to be at 25 by 4/1 and 50 by 8/1 which would put me at 75 by 1/1. I figure I'm about 7 books behind right now and to catch up I will have to read about 1.5 books per week which is manageable. A good beach weekend and I can easily read 2-3 books, so I'm not worried about falling short yet!

[Jackie]

I agree with the others- you're doing a great job Kay. I really like this challenge because it does make me think twice about turning on the TV and think about how I'm spending my time. I'm not sure if I will make the 75, but it's nice to keep track of what I'm reading and having my reviews all in one place. I also like to see what others are reading and getting recommendations. It makes me more selective of what I'm reading and not just reading junk or books with pretty covers.

[Margaret]

I have always wanted to keep a list, and this Challenge makes me do that. Makes me smile.

[Karol]

I'm smiling too, Margaret!

[Amanda]

You are wonderful Kay, and I think you go beyond what a lot of other moderators do!
I didn't join very long ago so I don't know if I'll get to 75 by the end of the year, but I love keeping track of what I read wish I had done this years ago.
I know next year I'll be right here to start at the beginning of 2010, God willing

[Meghan]

I think it's a great way for me to keep track of what I'm actually reading. I have put little reviews next to each book as well, so that I have a record of if I liked it (or not) and why. My only question is - when we reach 1/2/10, will we start over in a new group? I would hate to lose my thread with all my valuable reading info!! :):):)

[Penny]

This challenge has inspired me to keep track of what I'm reading and know that I am accountable for sharing my reviews. I find goals are an effective tool for me. And it's great to hear what other people are reading!

[Karol]

Thanks for the comments . . . I've been a bit "absent" from the group the last couple of weeks as I've been adjusting to a new work schedule. But hey - I think I'm getting a handle on all that now.

Meghan, that's a great question. I had initially envisioned starting a new group each year - but I guess that could make it inconvenient for everyone. Perhaps what I'll do is take the "2009" out of the group name, and then give members the option of starting a new thread for their own 2010 challenges, or continuing with the one they already have.

Towards the end of the year, I'll start a topic to get a better feel for what folks would like to do.