How many books do you read in a year?
This year, I’m on track to read about 200 books! If you are astonished, well, so am I.
I’ve always been an avid reader, but once I became a book blogger, my reading spiked to a whole new level. Just to give you perspective, the year before I started blogging I read 55 books. Nowadays, I read for my own pleasure, for book list research, and for advance reviews of new releases. That adds up to a lot of books.
How do you afford all those books?
Honestly, I can’t. Two hundred books a year would add up to a whole lot of cash, which I do not have – or more accurately, I choose to spend on skiing and biking.
Most of the books I read come from my local library. I sometimes have upwards of 20 books checked out at a time, plus more books on hold. I’m also lucky enough to receive Advance Review Copies (ARCs) from publishers so I can review new releases pre-publication.
Additionally, my friends and family constantly loan my books they think I would enjoy. I do have a membership to Book of the Month Club, where I can get a new book every month. And occasionally, I treat myself to books I purchase for myself.
How do you find so much time to read?
I actually hate getting asked this question. How do I find the time? I just do.
For starters, it helps that I’m an extremely fast reader. Also, I’ve made reading a priority. I prioritize it over other activities, like watching tv or cleaning my house. If I have spare time in my day, you can usually find me with a book. And I always make sure to schedule my days so I have that free time.
What genres do you read / review?
Not only am I an avid reader but also my reading is rather eclectic. At times, I go through phases where I read a bunch of mysteries or self-help books. However, generally I will jump from contemporary adult fiction to history to science fiction to young adult without missing a beat. I can say for certain, I do not read erotica or any romance to which the word “salacious” would apply. After that, my only requirement is that a book be well-written.
Will you review my book?
To be frank, probably not. My to-read list is bursting at the seams as it is. Although I read all genres, I have specific tastes in books. Almost all the ARCs I review on the blog I request myself from publishers. You are always welcome to contact me and ask me to review your book. Understand, I will only accept physical ARCs, and I cannot promise to read or review your book.
I want to start a blog. Do you have any advice for me?
Congratulations! Starting a blog is an exciting endeavor, and I wish you the best of luck. Blogging has seriously changed my life.
My biggest advice: Decided whether your blog is a hobby or a business. If it’s a hobby, then have fun with it! If it’s a business, then treat it like one from the start.
Be sure to visit my Blogging Resources page for a peek into the blogging wisdom I’ve accumulated on my blogging journey.
Does book blogging actually earn money?
Usually not. Realistically, most book blogs are hobby blogs. Many bloggers write because they love books and want a creative outlet where they can interact with equally book-obsessed people. Which is great!
However, if simply getting free books isn’t enough incentive, then you can make money if you treat your blog like a business. It’s definitely not a get rich quick scheme, but I’ve reached the point where I earn a small income from my blog. It’s not much, and my hourly rate is atrocious, but the blog is profitable.
With enough hard work and business savvy, I expect to eventually make a steady income from book blogging. So yes, it’s definitely possible if you are willing to work for it.
Why did you change names? And what happened to the other sister?
For any of you that have been with me since the beginning, you’ll know I started my first website as a lifestyle blog with my sister. Well, after a year and a half of blogging, during which we switched to a book blog, it became fully apparent that blogging was my dream, not hers.
We eventually decided it was time for her to completely step away, so I decided to pick a new name to reflect my focus on books. Since my strongest asset is my ability to write quality in-depth book lists, I decided to become the Booklist Queen. Also, the domain name and social handles were completely available (which was much harder to find than I anticipated.) Read more →
Do you do anything besides read?
While I have fully embraced the book life, it’s definitely not all I do. I’m a stay-at-home mom of four young children, though I guess I’m actually a work-at-home mom now.
When I’m not reading or blogging, I’m generally spending time with my family or doing something active. I like to bike, hike, ski, paddleboard, and play soccer. I try to workout most days and I would love to eventually get more into rock climbing. Also, I love to travel and have set a goal of visiting all 50 states and as many national parks as I can manage.
Have More Questions?
I love hearing from my readers! Feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions. If you are looking to collaborate, learn how to work with me so we can set up a successful partnership.