UPDATE: As the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2026, avid readers are setting their literary goals for the new year, aiming for ambitious targets to enhance their reading habits. Many are determined to tackle their towering to-be-read (TBR) piles and dive into new literary adventures.
Literary enthusiasts, including a reader from the U.S., shared their goals, revealing plans to read an impressive 100 books throughout 2026. Last year, this individual managed to read 92 books, falling just short of their adjusted goal of 100 books after an early year reset.
Amidst the excitement, readers are embracing creative methods to choose their next reads. Notably, one reader and their friend Cheyenne have devised a unique spinning wheel system to randomly select from 26 unread books they already own. The first spin for 2026 resulted in the choice of “12 Years a Slave” by Solomon Northup, a powerful narrative poised to resonate with readers.
The commitment to limit new book purchases is also trending. In 2025, this reader vowed to buy fewer than 50 new books but exceeded expectations by purchasing only 34. This marks a significant improvement compared to previous years, where summer purchases alone surpassed the maximum limit.
Additionally, readers are taking on the challenge of reading the entire Bible, with some reporting a strong start but recognizing the complexity of the study versions they are using. One reader noted that while they were on track to finish by September, the intricate annotations slowed their progress, particularly through the lengthy poetry of Psalms. Their goal will extend into 2026, as they continue their spiritual journey.
In a community effort to enhance reading experiences, participants are also crafting short must-read lists. Previously set at five books, this year’s lists have been trimmed to three, with titles including “The Compound” by Aisling Rawle, “Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, and “Dinner for Vampires” by Bethany Joy Lenz. A collaborative addition includes “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead, emphasizing the importance of shared literary experiences.
Despite the challenges of balancing work and personal writing projects, this reader is pledging to dedicate time to their long-cherished novel idea, recognizing that creative pursuits can enhance their skills and enrich their storytelling abilities.
The impact of these goals resonates beyond individual achievements. According to The Washington Post, even reading just two books in a year positions you among the majority of U.S. adults, while completing 50 or more books places you in the top 1%.
As readers gear up for a year filled with literary pursuits, the message is clear: any reading counts. Whether it’s a single book or a hundred, the journey through literature offers invaluable rewards. As the community embraces these new goals, the collective enthusiasm for books and storytelling remains stronger than ever.
Stay tuned for updates as more readers share their resolutions and progress throughout the year!
