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December is Read A New Book Month! Teacher self-care in December is important. What better time to cozy up with a new book? Reading isn’t just enjoyable—it’s beneficial for your wellbeing. Studies show it reduces stress, promotes relaxation, provides an escape, enhances focus, and improves brain function. While finding your next great read can feel overwhelming, there are plenty of tools to help you discover your perfect match!

While there’s no strict rulebook for choosing books, librarians offer these tried-and-true tips:

• Read what you enjoy, not what others thinks you should.
• Discover your reading tastes and find your favorite genre(s)! The best way to do that is by exploring different types of books. Step outside the box with your choices; you might surprise yourself and discover a new genre you love.
• Don’t hesitate to judge a book by its cover—that’s what it is designed for! Covers are the first thing to catch your eye.
• Don’t feel obligated to read a book to the end if you don’t like it. It is OK to abandon a book that doesn’t resonate with you.
• Ask a librarian—readers’ advisory is their specialty and passion.

Today, many sites will help you on your quest, like What Should I Read Next and Meet New Books, by searching a title, genre, or author. Which Book is a fun site that lets you search for your next great read by mood & emotion, place on a world map, character & plot, or best sellers. Check out Read Now, and AI will help you choose a new book. Rate books at ReadGeek and then get recommendations based on your ratings. Like quizzes? Take the reader type quiz on Bookfinity to discover your next favorite read. Last but not least, Goodreads is a noteworthy site where everyone can find, save, and discuss books. 

Love browsing book lists? Check out these websites brimming with expertly curated reading lists and discover your next favorite story.

• NPR Books We Love – This interactive reading guide is brought to you by NPR.
• NY Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century – Experience two decades of literary brilliance with The New York Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century. This definitive list celebrates the most influential and innovative works published since 2000, carefully selected by hundreds of literary experts.
• NY Public Library Best Books of 2023 – The New York Public Library’s expert librarians curated the Best Books of 2023, featuring top picks across all genres and age groups.
• The Atlantic Book Recommendations – The Atlantic offers curated book recommendations across various genres, with new lists published throughout the year on its dedicated recommendations page.
• Five Books – This unique site asks experts to recommend the five best books in their subject and explain their selection in an interview.
• What to Read Now – Browse through varied book recommendations from editors at The New York Times Book Review.
• BookRiot – These lists are a treasure trove for book lovers. Curated on wide-ranging topics, from the most-read books on Goodreads to the best new releases and even niche genres like thrillers about reality TV, these insights and recommendations are compiled by passionate readers and contributors.
• Stop, You’re Killing Me! This website is terrific for lovers of mystery, crime, thriller, spy, and suspense books.
• BookPage – This curated platform is a recommendation guide for readers, highlighting the best new books across all genres as chosen by its editors.

As always, check out the TeachersFirst site for reading suggestions and the blog for book-related posts. Treat yourself this December—celebrate Read a New Book Month with the perfect cozy new read!