I currently have 47 books on this list. I can read 55 a year (maybe more?) so I have some wiggle room to add books on or read ARCs from my favorite authors. YAY!

Many of my books from the 2024 list that I didn’t get to in 2024 rolled over. But I revisited each book description to see if I wanted to read it. Because there is an opportunity cost for each book I read.

My strategy for non-fiction, especially health and parenting books will be audiobooks. I confuse podcasts and I am used to getting information that way. I don’t have a lot of what I call “free ear” time where I can listen. Usually, my daughter is in the car with me and we are listening to music she likes or chatting and singing so I don’t get time to listen to podcasts in the car. I do have activities for her where I do get to read so I could bring headphones and listen instead of reading an eBook or print book.

I have the same categories of Health, Career, Parenting, Research (for my next book), and Fun. But the non-fiction categories of Health, Career, and Parenting are much leaner. I got burned by some non-fiction books in 2024 with a great title, great cover, and great hook, but the content just didn’t match the expectations. I have always been a believer that life is too short to read a book you don’t love or even like. I will DNF a book because it’s not for me, there are books out there for me. Unless I have a favorite author or people telling me “No, trust, it gets better,” if I’m out. I’m out. My research and fun categories are much bigger this year because again, life is too short. Reading is also fun for me (as well as work).

What books are you most looking forward to reading in 2025?