When trying something new, it’s hard to know where to start. Library recommendations (like staff picks, and featured collections), as well as book lists from established organizations and websites can point you towards your next unexpected read- reading online reviews can also be helpful, but take them with a grain of salt! While a book might not have worked for someone else, that might just be the reason it works for you and yours. Talking with friends and family is another great way of getting recommendations from those you trust, and it gives you an opportunity to ask questions and explain what you’re looking for- or not looking for!

Start small: If you’re trying to branch out but you’re drawn to certain topics, use those points of interest to guide your search. For example, an interest in oceans can lead to books on sailing, or surfing, and when it comes to fiction and fantasy, there are countless ocean-inspired stories out there. Here are a few different ways of using your current interests to branch out:

• Try a different style or medium, but keep your interests the same. You can find a wide range of writing styles within a genre, and switching to audiobooks or graphic novels can create an entirely different reading experience. Use your library membership to access thousands of audiobooks and mixed media narratives on OverDrive, Hoopla, and RBDigital- for free!
  
  
• It might be helpful to understand the focus of your reading. Are you reading for fun? Are you reading to learn? Or are you reading to stay updated and informed? Changing your focus will also create a different reading experience, and you will likely find yourself exploring a new genre.
  
  
• Give yourself options by creating a list and keep several books on hand. That way, if you encounter a book you’re not enjoying, you can put it down and move on to the next.
  
  
• Make use of the eResources offered by the Lac La Biche County Libraries! NoveList offers a series of databases for all ages, and allows readers to search for new books based on similar titles, mood, and genre. PressReader is the world’s largest online newspaper and magazine kiosk, and Prairie Indigenous Collection offers access to stories by indigenous authors, as well as writings about Indigenous culture from publishers in the Prairies. From romance, to auto-repairs and study guides, there’s a database for all the readers in your family.

And remember, it’s okay to not finish a book! Trying something new means that you might find something you don’t like. The sooner you put down a book that isn’t grabbing your interest, the sooner you can pick up one that might!