UPDATE: As we move into 2026, avid readers across the globe are setting their literary goals with renewed determination. With many reflecting on their reading habits from 2025, the urgency to improve personal book challenges has never been greater.
This year, readers are focused on more than just quantity; they aim to deepen their literary experiences. One reader, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared their ambitious goals, including reading 100 books in 2026. They achieved significant progress last year, finishing 92 books and significantly reducing their physical to-be-read (TBR) pile from 189 books to 128 books. The goal is to drop below 100 books this year, reflecting a growing trend toward curating personal collections.
In 2025, this reader set a limit of 50 new books to purchase, a target that proved challenging but ultimately successful, with only 34 new books added to their collection. This disciplined approach resonates with many who are striving for balance in their reading habits amid the distractions of modern life.
Another trending strategy among readers is utilizing a book wheel, where participants spin to select their next read from a curated list of unread titles. For this reader, the first spin for 2026 resulted in “12 Years a Slave” by Solomon Northup, showcasing a commitment to diversity in literature.
Additionally, personalized must-read lists are gaining popularity. This reader has narrowed their annual list from five to three essential titles, which include “The Compound” by Aisling Rawle, “Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, and “Dinner for Vampires” by Bethany Joy Lenz. The inclusion of “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead, as suggested by a friend, highlights the collaborative nature of modern reading journeys.
While reading goals are paramount, there is a concurrent push for writers to carve out time for creative projects. This reader is focusing on a long-held idea for a novel, recognizing that personal writing can enhance skills and foster a deeper appreciation for literature.
The impact of reading on mental health and personal growth cannot be overstated. According to The Washington Post, even completing just two books a year places one above half of U.S. adults, emphasizing that every effort counts. Those who read 50 or more books join the elite top 1%, proving that dedication to reading is a shared aspiration.
As 2026 unfolds, the literary community is witnessing a renewed enthusiasm for reading, driven by personal accountability and community support. The call to action is clear: whether you finish one book or many, every page turned is a step toward a richer, more fulfilling reading life.
Stay tuned for more updates on reading trends and community insights as this story develops.