May - Pattern Play

[TerryJane, Challenges]

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

For May's theme of Patterns, we will seek a variety of distinct patterns on our bookshelves -- geometric, floral, abstract, stripes, and more! To share your covers with fellow challengers, follow the instructions in the spoiler tags when you edit your original sign up post.
(view spoiler)[
- Edit
- Click "add book/author" above the comment box (only on website, not app)

- Search for your book.
- If needed, click "other editions" to find a different cover. You may need to scroll multiple pages to find the right one.
- Click the "cover" button at the bottom of the list.
- Click "Add" to the right of the correct cover.
- Click "Edit post" to save your changes.
(hide spoiler)]

To join, post a message telling the challenge leader how many books you plan to read. If you are new to our group and/or our group challenges, take a moment to check out the Yearly, Quarterly, Monthly Challenges - Start Here thread for more information on how our challenges are run.

Badges
Badges are optional. If you wish to save yours, follow these steps: (view spoiler)[
▪ create a badge tracking thread in your Member's Corner
▪ right-click on the badge
▪ select "copy image link"
▪ paste the link into your tracking thread using the below html format
▪ [img src=LINK]
▪ change [ ] to < > (hide spoiler)]

Earn these badges for challenge participation and/or completion!



Examples


1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

Many thanks to Marielle for volunteering to lead this challenge and to Angelinabvby for designing our badges! We appreciate you both!

[Marielle]

🟠Welcome everyone to this May Challenge ***Pattern Play*** 🔴
🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈
1st-31st May 2026

📚 To sign up, please post a comment below and include the number of books you plan to read for this challenge! 📚

To have your challenge updated on the participants list, please post an update comment. Be sure to include both your original message number and progress:.
Example: Updated msg #10: 2/8

If you decide to drop out of the challenge, please don’t delete your original sign-up post. Just update and let me know

Thanks and good luck with your challenges

Participants List
Amy (# 21) - 7/5 Completed!✨
angelinabvby ۶۟ৎ (# 7) - 0/5
Brianna (# 19) - 0/10
Brianna Rachel (# 8) - 10/10 Completed!
Caraina (# 9) - 5/5 Completed!
Carrie (# 32) - 10/10 Completed!
Ciara (# 12) - 10/10 Completed!
Janine (# 31) - 5/4 Completed! ✨
Jenn (# 20) - 0/10
JennH (# 5) - 5/3 Completed!✨
Jennifer (# 27) - 0/10
Kristina (# 10) - 7/5 Completed!✨
Lisa Marie (# 37) - 0/5
LoDo (# 24) - 5/5 Completed!
Marielle (# 3) - 6/6 Completed!
Sarah (# 13) - 10/10 Completed!
Shari (# 16) - 6/5 Completed! ✨
Susan (# 14) - 10/5 Completed! ✨
Susan (Games&Events) (# 6) - 5/5 Completed!
Susanna (# 22) - 7/8
Suzanne (# 41) - 0/10
TerryJane (# 17) - 10/10 Completed!
Vanessa (# 36) - 0/4
Whitney (# 4) - 2/2 Completed!
(# ) - /

STATS
Participants: 24
Books Read: 120
Book Goal: 162
Completed: 16

Updated on June 5, 2026, message 77

[Marielle]

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

I will try for 6 books!
Progress 6/6

1. Polka Dots: Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.
📚Irish author: John Boyne - A traveller at the gates of wisdom (bookcase)

3. Stripes: Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.✅

4. Animal Prints: Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
✅Animal on cover:

5. Geometric: Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.
✅Set in Africa, Botswana: Tea Time for the Traditionally Built

6. Floral: Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
✅

7. Abstract: Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.
📚Underrepresented group: A Snake Falls to Earth by Darcie Little Badger

8. Nature: Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.
✅

9. Art Motifs: Read a book with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.
📚Murder at the Fitzwilliam or Rock Bottom (both cosy mysteries at a museum)

10. Gradients: Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book
✅Sad Girl Hours

[Whitney]

I'd like to join for 2!

Progress: 2/2

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.
Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson (Completed 5/23/26)

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures by Anne Fadiman (Completed 5/12/26)

[JennH, Cheerleader]

Please sign me up for 3.

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

5/3

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.
Figgs & Phantoms by Ellen Raskin 5/12 - tap dancing

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds 5/16/26

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik 5/1/26


5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
Gingerbread Danger by Amanda Flower 5/19/26

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.
Booking for Trouble by Jenn McKinlay 5/26/26

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[Susan, Games & Events]

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

Progress: 5/5

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.
Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh Set in Scotland - Finished 5/5/26

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
by Lisa Jewell - Finished 5/14/26

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
by Laura Hillenbrand - Finished 5/28/26

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.
by Alice Walker - Finished 5/16/26

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides - Finished 5/26/26

[angelinabvby ۶۟ৎ {rest in peace estie}]

🌈🧮🎨 ℙ𝔸𝕋𝕋𝔼ℝℕ ℙ𝕃𝔸𝕐 🌈🧮🎨

0/5

[✨ Brianna Raquel ✨]

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

10/10

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.🪻
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.
Nine Liars

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.🪻
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.
The Last Letters of Sally and Walter

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.🪻
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
Trust Issues

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.🪻
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
Assist

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.🪻
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.
Love by the Book

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.🪻
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
The Merriest Misters

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.🪻
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.
The Science of Breakable Things

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.🪻
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.
The Storm

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.🪻
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.
Too Close to Home

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.🪻
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.
Missing Sam

[Caraina]

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1, 2026 - May 31, 2026

Completed: 5/5

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author. Hidden River: A Novel - Adrian McKinty 5/13/26

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title. Wild Horses - Linda Byler 5/14/26

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting. A Spell of Good Things - Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀ 5/9/26 (Set in Nigeria, Africa)

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy. A Rose in The Shadows - Angela White 5/6/26

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book. Home Front - Kristin Hannah 5/2/26

[Kristina]

PATTERN PLAY
May 1, 2026 - May 31, 2026
Progress: 7/5

Sign me up for 5!

Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
✅ 1. Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance: The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow

Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
✅ 3. Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book: Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
✅ 4. Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title: Sula by Toni Morrison

Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
✅ 6. Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy: Hemlock & Silver by T. Kingfisher

Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
✅ 7. Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group: Sula by Toni Morrison

✅ Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
8. Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment: A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske

Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
✅ 10. Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book: Spread Me by Sarah Gailey

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome angelinabvby ۶۟ৎ , Brianna Rachel, Caraina, JennH, Kristina, Susan and Whitney to this may challenge!

Have fun reading and if you have any questions? Shoot!

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[Ciara]

I will go for all 10 prompts!

[Sarah]

Sign me up for 10 books

10/10 - COMPLETED

✅1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.
From Girls to Grrrlz : A History of Women's Comics from Teens to Zines (29/5/26)

✅2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by a Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.
The Clique (17/5/26)

✅3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (4/5/26)

✅4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
Mog on Fox Night (5/5/26)

✅5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.
The Museum of Modern Love (5/5/26)

✅6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
A Red, Red Rose: The Love Poems of Robert Burns in Original Scots and Modern English (30/5/26)

✅7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.
Little Eyes (6/5/26)

✅8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.
Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening (7/5/26)

✅9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.
The Fox and the Star (9/5/26)

✅10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book
The Vanishing Half (10/5/26)

[Susan]

I'll sign up for 5

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome Ciara, Sarah and Susan!
Enjoy your reading and if you have any questions, let me know!

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[Shari]

Please sign me up for 5.

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

Progress: 6 / 5 - COMPLETED, with 1 extra book!

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.


6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[TerryJane, Challenges]

♒ PATTERN PLAY - Monthly Challenge
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026
Progress: 10/10 -- COMPLETE

♒ 1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.


♒ 2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.


♒ 3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.


♒ 4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.


♒ 5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.


♒ 6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.


♒ 7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.


♒ 8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.


♒ 9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.


♒ 10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[Marielle]

📚📚📚It's the first day of May and let's start reading those books! 📚📚📚

I'm awfully inspired by all of your plans and beautiful patterns.
I see some books I already read (hope you enjoy them as much as I have) and I see a lot of books I also wanna read (let me know how you enjoy them)

Welcome Shari and TerriJane!

We already have 81 books pledged, this should be so much fun.
And did you already collect the nice badge for participation in this challenge in your member corner?

[Brianna]

Sign me up for all 10!

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

0/10

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[Jenn]

I would like to sign up for 10.
Thanks 🙂

[Amy]

I will go for 5!
7/5-- Challenge Complete

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; or set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland: Escape to the Highlands

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: Read a book with an animal on the cover: Pineapple Lies

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover: Twice a Quinceañera

7. Abstract: Read a book with an author or character from any underrepresented group: Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging

8. Nature: Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover: Goodbye, Vitamin

9. Art Motifs: Read a book featuring someone in a museum or art career: Tear Down and Die

10. Gradients: Read a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book: Second Chance at the Ranch

[Susanna]

GOAL 1/8
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

[Amy]

Updated message 21-- 1/5

[LoDo]

Please sign me up for 4! May increase if the option presents itself 😊

(Edit 17/5) Increased to 5.

PATTERN PLAY
Duration: May 1 – May 31, 2026

Progress : 5/5 (COMPLETED)

Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
⋆ Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoevsky [Michael Katz translation] -
🕮 Finished: 8/5/26 ⋆

・・・・・
Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
⋆ The Names - Florence Knapp - 🕮 Finished: 29/5/26 ⋆

・・・・・
Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.
⋆ Under Water - Tara Menon - 🕮 Finished: 2/5/26 ⋆

・・・・・
Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career .
⋆ The Bright Years - Sarah Damoff - 🕮 Finished: 2/5/26 ⋆

・・・・・
Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.
⋆ What Kind of Paradise - Janelle Brown - 🕮 Finished: 16/5/26 ⋆

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome Brianna, Jenn, Amy, Susanna and LoDo!
Have fun with this challenge and if you have any questions, let me know

And congrats to Amy for reading the first book in this challenge!

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[Amy]

Updated message 21-- 2/5

[Jennifer]

I would like to try 10, please.
0/10

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome Jennifer to this may challenge!
Have fun reading and let me know if you have any questions.

There are 4 books read, 127 books pledged. Going strong.

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[LoDo]

Update #24 - Increased books to 4, progress 2/4

[Amy]

Updated messge 21-- 3/5

[Janine]

Please sign me up for 4!

[Carrie]

Please, sign me up for all 10 - this is probably a bad idea because it is a VERY busy month but I cannot resist.

🎨PATTERN PLAY🎨
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026
🎉Completed: 10/10 books


✔️1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance. - The characters in this book join in a Ojibwe traditional and cerominial jingle dress dance to honor the dead on All Soul's Day.
The Sentence

✔️2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.
The Bride

✔️3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.
Crime and Punishment

✔️4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.
Say You'll Remember Me

✔️5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.
She Didn't See It Coming

✔️6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

✔️7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.
Dominicana

✔️8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment. - mountains and waves creating a pattern on cover
Homegoing+

✔️9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career. -persian inspired rug on cover
The Escape Game

✔️10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.
The Rom-Commers

[Susanna]

UPDATE MSG #22

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome Janine and Carrie!
📚📚Enjoy your reading. 📚📚

Stats have been updated to here.

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[Susan, Games & Events]

Update message #6

Progress: 1/5

[Vanessa]

2026 Monthly Challenges > May - Pattern Play

Trying for 4 books!

[Lisa Marie]

Please sign me up for 5 books at this time :) I will add the books as I read them!!

MAY ~ PATTERN PALY

GOAL: 0/5

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

[Marielle]

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

Welcome Vanessa and Lisa Marie to this may challenge!
Have fun reading and if you have any questions? Shoot!

📚📚Stats have been updated to here. 📚📚

There are 23 people in this challenge, reading 151 books, 9 books completed so far.

🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈

[LoDo]

Update #24 - progress 3/4

[Amy]

Updated message 21-- 4/5

[Suzanne]

2026 Reading Challenge
May - Pattern Play
Duration: May 1 - May 31, 2026

Progress: 0 out of 10

For May's theme of Patterns, we will seek a variety of distinct patterns on our bookshelves -- geometric, floral, abstract, stripes, and more! To share your covers with fellow challengers, follow the instructions in the spoiler tags when you edit your original sign up post.
(view spoiler)

To join, post a message telling the challenge leader how many books you plan to read. If you are new to our group and/or our group challenges, take a moment to check out the Yearly, Quarterly, Monthly Challenges - Start Here thread for more information on how our challenges are run.

1. Polka Dots: Believed to have acquired its name from the Polka dance, it is also known as dotted-Swiss or spot print.
Read a book with polka dots on the cover; set in central Europe; or including any type of dance.

2. Plaid: This pattern is formed by vertical and horizontal colors crossing each other to form squares.
Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author.

3. Stripes: Stripes used to be stigmatized and were even banned by the Pope in the 13th century.
Read a book with stripes in the cover art; with the word stripe, line, or band in the title; or a banned or challenged book.

4. Animal Prints: These patterns mimic those found in animal fur or skin, such as leopard, zebra, or snake.
Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.

5. Geometric: These structured patterns use shapes like squares, triangles, and circles. African fabrics such as Ankara and Mudcloth often use these geometric motifs.
Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.

6. Floral: Inspired by flowers and botanical elements, these patterns range from small florals to tropical prints.
Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.

7. Abstract: These are non-representational or irregular designs using shapes, lines, and colors without depicting specific objects.
Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group.

8. Nature: Shapes such as spirals and fractals are often observed in natural forms like seashells, leaves, and snowflakes.
Read a book with a nature pattern on the cover; with a naturally patterned object in the title; or a book about the environment.

9. Art Motifs: Repeated patterns such as meanders, waves, and paisley are found in pottery, jewelry and textiles from ancient Greco-Roman, Persian, and Mayan cultures.
Read a book with with of these art motifs on the cover; set in one of these geographic areas; or featuring someone in a museum or art career.

10. Gradients: This is a design technique where colors transition smoothly from one hue to another, forming visually engaging and dynamic backgrounds.
Read a book with a gradient pattern on the cover; or a book where a character experiences a significant mental or physical change during the course of the book.

Many thanks to Marielle for volunteering to lead this challenge and to Angelinabvby for designing our badges! We appreciate you both!

[Marielle]

🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈 🟡♦️〰️🦓
Welcome Suzanne! Stats have been updated to here.

🌸🌸🌸Happy may reading everyone🌸🌸🌸

STATS
Participants: 24
Books Read: 11
Book Goal: 161
Completed: 0

🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸📚🐌🎨🏳️‍🌈 🟡♦️〰️🦓📐🌸

[Whitney]

Update to Message #4: 1/2

[Susan, Games & Events]

Update message #6

Progress: 2/5

[Susanna]

msg #22
Pattern Play
2/8

[Susanna]

Pattern Play MSG #22
4/8

[LoDo]

Update #24 - progress 4/5 - Increased goal to 5!

[Janine]

Update to message 31, 5/4 challenge complete!

2. Plaid: Read a book with a plaid, tartan, or checked pattern in the cover art; set in Scotland, Wales, or Ireland; or written by Scottish, Welsh, or Irish author. - All Hail Chaos (Irish author)

4. Animal Prints: Read a book with an animal print in the cover art; with an animal on the cover; or with an animal in the title.


5. Geometric: Read a book with a geometric pattern in the cover; with a geometry word in the title; or with an African author or setting.


6. Floral: Read a book with a floral pattern in the cover; with a flower in the title; or whose author has a botanical name, such as Linden or Daisy.


7. Abstract: Read a book with an irregular pattern on the cover; or with an author or character from any underrepresented group. - The Unmagical Life of Briar Jones (non-binary protagonist and author)

[Susan, Games & Events]

Update message #6

Progress: 3/5

[Susanna]

Pattern Play MSG #22
5/8