What Type Of Books Should I Read
Reading has always felt like one of life’s simplest pleasures—and yet, choosing what to read can feel surprisingly overwhelming. With endless options across genres, authors, and formats, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even begin. The truth is, the right book can improve your mood, expand your thinking, and even shift your perspective in meaningful ways. But finding that right book often requires more than picking something at random.
Today, I’m sharing a guide on what type of books to read so you can make more intentional choices, discover new favorites, and enjoy reading more consistently.
What Type Of Books Should I Read
Understanding what type of books to read can directly impact how much you enjoy—and stick with—reading. Many people struggle with consistency not because they dislike reading, but because they choose books that don’t align with their interests, goals, or even their attention span at that moment.
When you start identifying what works for you, reading becomes easier, more engaging, and far more rewarding over time. Whether you’re drawn to fast-paced plots, emotional storytelling, or thought-provoking nonfiction, there is a perfect fit out there—you just need to find it.
What Are The Different Types Of Books
Fiction
Fiction is one of the most popular genres, and for good reason. It allows you to step into entirely new worlds, explore complex characters, and experience stories driven by imagination. Within fiction, you’ll find everything from literary fiction to fantasy, romance, and thrillers.
If you love immersive storytelling, fiction writers like John Green (author of The Fault in Our Stars) or classics like Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie are great places to start. You might also enjoy stories with magical elements, time travel, or even space exploration depending on your interests.
Subgenres like historical fiction bring past eras to life through storytelling, blending fictional characters with real historical events.
Nonfiction
Nonfiction focuses on real-world topics, making it ideal for readers who want to learn while they read. This genre includes memoirs, biographies, essays, and investigative journalism.
Books like In Cold Blood and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings offer powerful insights into real lives and events. If you’re drawn to factual storytelling, true crime books are another compelling option that keeps readers engaged with real mysteries and investigations.
Personal Development
Personal development books are designed to help you grow—whether that’s improving your mindset, productivity, or relationships. These books are especially helpful if you’re looking to build better habits or gain new perspectives on life.
They often combine storytelling with actionable advice, making them both inspiring and practical.
Educational
Educational books focus on teaching specific skills or subjects. These might include books on business, science, history, or even creative skills.
If you enjoy learning about historical events, diving into educational reads can give you a deeper understanding of the world while still being engaging.
Light Reading
Sometimes, you just want a book that feels easy and enjoyable. Light reading includes romance, cozy mysteries, and many young adult fiction titles.
Books like The Hunger Games fall into this category—they’re engaging, fast-paced, and easy to get into. These types of books are perfect when you want to relax without overthinking.
How To Find Out What Types Of Books You Like
Think About Movies Or Shows You Enjoy
Your favorite movies and TV shows are one of the best clues to your reading preferences. Love historical dramas? Try historical fiction. Enjoy thrillers? Look into mystery or suspense novels.
If you enjoy emotional coming-of-age stories, authors like John Green might be a perfect match.
Start With Popular Or Beginner-Friendly Books In That Genre
If you’re new to a genre, begin with widely loved books. Popular titles are often accessible and give you a strong sense of what the genre offers.
For example, starting with The Hunger Games can introduce you to dystopian fiction, while The Fault in Our Stars offers a gateway into emotional contemporary fiction.
Track What You Finish And Enjoy
Pay attention to the books you actually finish—and more importantly, the ones you enjoy. Patterns will start to emerge.
Do you prefer fast-paced plots? Emotional depth? Stories with magical elements? Tracking your reading habits can help you refine your preferences over time.
Avoid Forcing Books You Are Not Interested In
One of the biggest mistakes readers make is forcing themselves to finish books they’re not enjoying.
If a book doesn’t capture your attention, it’s okay to move on. Reading should feel enjoyable, not like a chore.
Try Different Formats Like Audiobooks Or Short Reads
Sometimes it’s not the genre—it’s the format. Audiobooks can bring stories to life in a new way, while short reads can help you build momentum.
If you’re struggling to stay engaged, experimenting with formats can make a huge difference.
What Type Of Books Should You Read
What Type Of Books To Read Before Bed
Light Fiction
Books that are calming and easy to follow are perfect before bed.
Book recommendations:
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (magical elements)
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
These stories are engaging without being overly intense.
Cozy Mysteries
Gentle mysteries without heavy suspense are ideal for winding down.
Book recommendations:
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
What Type Of Books To Read To Become Smarter
Nonfiction And Educational Reads
If your goal is to expand your knowledge, nonfiction is the way to go.
Book recommendations:
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
Educated by Tara Westover
These books challenge your thinking and broaden your understanding of the world.
Historical Books
Books centered around historical events can deepen your knowledge while still telling compelling stories.
Book recommendations:
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (historical fiction)
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
What Type Of Books To Read To Improve Vocabulary
Literary Fiction
Literary fiction often features rich language and complex themes, making it perfect for expanding your vocabulary.
Book recommendations:
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Classic Literature
Classics are another great way to encounter more advanced language.
Book recommendations:
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
What Type Of Books To Read For Pure Entertainment
Thrillers And Horror
If you want a page-turner, thrillers and horror are excellent choices.
Book recommendations:
Books by Stephen King
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
These stories are designed to keep you hooked from start to finish.
Fantasy And Science Fiction
For readers who enjoy imagination and escapism, these genres offer limitless possibilities.
Book recommendations:
Dune by Frank Herbert (space exploration)
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle (time travel)
What Type Of Books To Read For Emotional Connection
Contemporary Fiction
These books focus on relationships, identity, and real-life struggles.
Book recommendations:
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
Memoirs
Memoirs offer deeply personal stories that can resonate on an emotional level.
Book recommendations:
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Becoming by Michelle Obama
What Type Of Books To Read If You’re Short On Time
Short Novels And Young Adult Fiction
If your schedule is busy, shorter books or young adult fiction can help you stay consistent.
Book recommendations:
The Hunger Games
Looking for Alaska by John Green
Children’s Books
Don’t overlook children’s books—they often contain powerful messages in a quick, accessible format.
These can be especially great for rediscovering the joy of reading.
If you’re still unsure where to start, I highly recommend checking out this guide on how to pick a book to read.
Choosing what type of books to read doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By exploring different genres, paying attention to what you enjoy, and allowing yourself flexibility, you can create a reading life that feels both intentional and enjoyable.
The best book for you isn’t necessarily the most popular one—it’s the one that keeps you turning pages.
