Bookish Habits Discussion

 #1 Book Storage – How do you store and organize your books?

My book collection is spread across several locations: some are neatly stored in bookcases in my loft and on the first floor, while others are tucked away in old trunks. Vintage and antique books tend to find a home on accessible shelves so I can easily admire them. For my digital collection, I keep my ebooks and audiobooks organized in a dedicated folder on my laptop for quick access.

 #2: Tracking: How Do You Keep Track of What You’ve Read and What Books You Own?

To stay organized, I use my blog as a personal log for books I’ve recently read and reviewed. It’s also where I keep a list of books on my TBR (To Be Read) pile. It’s my own little database of literary adventures!

I use my blog for the books I've recently read and reviewed and have many TBRs.

#3 Borrow – Do you lend your books out?

One of the biggest influences on my love for books is my mom. She took the time out of her busy schedule to bring me to the library, which I didn’t realize would ultimately lead to my career in the literary world. I never expected to work in a public library or freelance for a publisher, but those roles have shaped my passion for books. Even though those jobs have come and gone, my mom and I still share a deep love for books, especially our mutual fondness for Mary Higgins Clark. For more on that, you can check out my Mary Higgins Clark page.

#4 Buying – How do you buy or acquire your books?

I tend to purchase books based on what interests me at the moment, whether it’s a recommendation from an author, agent, or publisher, or simply something I’ve come across that catches my eye. I also receive books and ebooks from publishers. When family and friends ask for gift ideas, books are always at the top of my list, followed by coffee beans, tea, and taffy. One of my favorite pastimes is browsing in bookstores, discovering new titles, and often reading while I explore the shelves.

#5 Comments – How do you respond to the “How do you read so much” comment or similar comments?

Reading is a priority for me, and I dedicate at least 10 hours a week to it. That doesn’t just include books, but also news articles, magazines, and other materials. It’s about making reading a habit and carving out time in my schedule. You can learn more about my devotion to reading here.

 #6  Next Book – How do you pick your next read?

I usually choose a book based on what resonates with me at the moment. For example, I was recently at a bookshop and stumbled upon a copy of Fire From Heaven. After reading the first few pages, I was hooked and decided it was time to take it home.

#7  Travel – How do you pick what book(s) you bring on vacation with you?

When I travel, I typically carry my tablet and laptop, where I read ebooks. Sometimes, I’ll pack a physical book on poetry or nature. It all depends on what feels right for the trip, but I tend to lean toward lighter, portable options.

#8  Annotate – Do you write, highlight, or mark up your books in any way?

Oddly enough, I don’t mark up the books I own. Although I do enjoy buying secondhand books, many of which have been highlighted or annotated by previous owners. If I feel the need to make a note, I keep a journal handy. When planning a review, I often jot down my thoughts as I go, either in my journal or directly on my laptop.

#9 New or Backlist – Which do you prefer, new releases or backlist books?

I’m drawn to books based on the synopsis that captures my attention, so I end up reading a good mix of new releases and backlist titles. As a reviewer, I get access to ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies) of upcoming books, but I also enjoy diving into older, less-known gems. Ultimately, it’s not about whether a book is new or old, but how the writing connects with me at the time.

#10 Sequels – Do you read books as they are released or wait for an entire series to be published before reading 1 book?

I tend to read books in a series as they are released. I don’t limit myself to only a few authors because I’d hate to miss out on a book that speaks to me in the moment.

#11 Do you use bookmarks?

Yes, I definitely use bookmarks! I have a collection of them, but one of my favorites is a handcrafted gift I received, which I always use in my current read. It’s a lovely reminder of the personal touch books can bring to our lives.

Thank you for the emails! Thought it would be easier to respond to all here about my Bookish Habits. I hope you find new or old books to love.