Goodreads . . .

End of blog post.

What, you need something more substantial? Joking aside, I’d wager most fans of literature are at least familiar with Goodreads as a platform. Between the easy ability to add your own ratings and reviews, it also provides an intuitive method for sorting your books into various categories. Furthermore, it allows for users to create their own tags to their hearts’ delight.

To be honest, I just stick with the default ‘read’, ‘currently reading’ and ‘to be read’ options. They’ve served me well over the years. However, if you prefer to sort by genre that’s easily changed on a whim.

I’m in no way affiliated with the site nor app, save for being a member and having it linked to my website, but for organising past, present or future titles it works a treat. Some users feel Goodreads could do with a modern-day facelift, as it does feel like something from the late 90s in terms of web development.

Geocities or Yahoo come to mind for those of us old enough to remember such days.

Nevertheless, its simple and elegant interface is something I appreciate when it comes to sorting out lists. Moreover, if you want something more ‘fresh’ their mobile application ticks all the right boxes in that department. It is streamlined with the usual bells and whistles expected on smartphones or tablets.

There are also many groups to join which are tailored around similar interests, with a globe-spanning community of members filling their numbers. The app facilitates quick replies and interaction, whereas the desktop site is better for writing reviews and tidying up some of the more demanding housekeeping behind your profile.

Concerning my own leisurely endeavours I’m currently reading through ‘Alien Clay’ by Adrian Tchaikovsky alongside the audiobook edition of ‘The Will of the Many’ by James Islington. With regards to digital editions and e-books I’m reading ‘In the Days’ and ‘The Emperor’s Shield’ written by Andy Peloquin and Gordon Doherty respectively. My reviews for each of these works will follow shortly thereafter (insert a shameless self-plug for my reviews on Goodreads here.)

While this does constitute the primary means by which I organise my reading list, Waterstones’ wish list feature is also very useful. In particular, the ability to check your rewards credit and upcoming publications simultaneously makes for a great tool. Now and then I also take photos of interesting covers in the libraries or shops, only to add them to my TBR mountain upon arriving home.

The above represent some of my own attempts at providing a sense of structure to the seemingly never-ending pile of books waiting to be read within my lifetime. There’s no right or wrong approach, and it will vary wildly depending on whether you prefer to read one book at a time or juggle several at once.

If a system works for you, stick with it. Maybe you don’t even need a plan, and just read whatever appeals in the moment. That’s perfectly alright as well.

Ain’t broken, don’t fix . . . ad infinitum.

Regardless, I reserve the right to secretly harbour a feeling of envy for your ability to leave boxes unticked. Now, back to fighting this paper hydra of mine,

Best wishes,

C.A. Fitzroy