Discovering Your Interest as a Beginner Reader at 21: A Guide to Recommended Books

As a beginner reader at 21, the journey to discovering your literary interest can be both exciting and overwhelming. This guide will help you make the most out of your reading experience, starting with some essential tips on how to get started and tailored recommendations based on genres and interests.

Choosing Your First Books

When choosing your first books, it's essential to reflect on what you enjoy. Here are a few questions to consider:

What TV shows or movies do you enjoy watching? Are there any specific topics or ideas that interest you? Do you have a preference for a particular genre, such as fantasy, mystery, or biography?

Based on your answers, you can easily find books related to your interests by simply performing a Google search. As a recommendation, authors like Franz Kafka and Albert Camus can be engaging for those interested in exploring themes of absurdity and mystery.

Specific Book Recommendations

Non-Fiction True Accounts

If you enjoy non-fiction, the true account "Under a Kansas Moon: The Final Chapter" by Tommy Hilde Wilkens is a great choice. It provides a detailed and previously unrevealed account of one of the most brutal murder cases in US history. This story is not to be missed and is guaranteed to captivate you.

Young Adult Fiction

For those in their early twenties and above, young adult (YA) novels can be incredibly engaging and satisfying. It may seem like a genre for slower readers, but the stories are written with a reading experience in mind that resonates with the life experiences of 17-22 year-olds. I highly recommend starting with the works of Philip Pullman, particularly The Golden Compass. It's one of my favorites, and I believe you'll enjoy the next two books in the series as well.

Cookbooks

If you're learning to cook or want to develop this skill, cookbooks can be a fantastic choice. Learning how to feed yourself can make a significant difference in your life, especially when you're on your own away from family. I recommend checking out the list of top 15 Amazon books for some inspiring and useful cookbooks that are sure to pique your interest.

Classic Novels

For a more traditional reading experience, consider starting with classic novels that have stood the test of time. Some great starting points include:

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma Sherlock Holmes collection by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky

These books offer a range of themes, from self-discovery and adventure to mystery and philosophical exploration, and can serve as a great way to dive into traditional literature.

Additional Resources

Your local library is an excellent resource for readers. They often have various readers' advisory programs that can help you explore different genres and find books tailored to your interests. One such program is Novelist, but many libraries have their own unique recommendations.

Remember, the journey of becoming a better reader is all about discovery and enjoyment. Take the time to find books that resonate with you, and you'll find a love for reading that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in non-fiction true accounts, engaging young adult novels, practical cookbooks, or classic literature, there's a world of stories waiting for you. Happy reading!