If you’re still stuck in the era of reading only for English courses, now’s the time to broaden your horizons. In addition to being a fun, healthy hobby, reading takes you to new places and enriches your mind for no, or low, price. However, if you are not in the habit of bringing a good book with you wherever you go, it can seem hard to get started. In reality, though, all it takes is finding your interests, picking the book, and gradually widening the variety of your selections. Are you ready to put yourself on the path to greater knowledge?

First, consider what you are interested in. Begin with whether you want to read fiction, non-fiction, or a little bit of both. Then, consider your genre of interest. What do you want your book’s theme to be? Conventional genres like romance and science fiction are good starts, but feel free to mix genres to tailor your book specific to your needs. The possibilities are endless. Finally, consider the details such as author or length. This step is optional if you want more choices, rather than a restricted set of books. After you are done composing your criteria, you are ready to search for your novel!

Books can be found everywhere, from libraries to stores, so you have your work cut out for you. To make your search easier, head over to the internet, where book recommendations, reviews, and store locations are all just a click away. Goodreads, a book review site, actually recommends books to you based on what you have already read. Once you know which book you want to get, head to the store or the library. In truth, the library is the best place to go, since it’s free, and you can easily return the book if you don’t like it, saving you money and space. After you have the book in your hands, it’s time to start reading!

An important thing to remember is to broaden your horizons. There is no interest in reading about a heterosexual white couple falling in love for the thousandth variation, nor is there anything refreshing about yet another teen that just happens to stumble upon a magical realm. Instead, try different books from different genres and age groups to keep reading fresh and exciting, rather than having just another déjà vu feeling. Keep an open mind, and you may find an unexpected interest.

It may seem less interesting that your phone, but reading unlocks a lot more mental doors. In books, you find brave heroes, exotic locales, and possibly characters you identify with on a personal level. Free, interesting, and easy to get, books make perfect companions for any day and occasion. In addition, they make great conversation starters, and can connect you with real life people you would have never met before. So what are you waiting for? Curl up in your favourite chair, pour a cup of tea, and read.