Every January, readers across the world set out on a journey—not just through the pages of books, but through personal goals that shape their reading year. From the Goodreads Reading Challenge to themed prompts shared on BookTok and blogs, reading challenges have become a global phenomenon. They’re not just about numbers—they’re about motivation, discovery, and community.


Why Readers Set Annual Reading Goals

1. Motivation and Accountability

Setting a target—whether it’s 12 books a year or 100—helps readers carve out intentional time for reading. Tracking progress provides a small but satisfying sense of accomplishment every time another title gets checked off the list.

2. Community and Social Sharing

Reading challenges thrive because they connect people. Platforms like Goodreads and StoryGraph allow readers to share their progress, while Bookstagram and TikTok communities encourage creative participation. Having a shared goal creates camaraderie and even a little friendly competition.

3. Exploration and Variety

Challenges often include prompts like “Read a book translated from another language” or “Pick a debut novel.” These little nudges encourage readers to branch out, explore new genres, and discover voices they might not have found otherwise.

4. Personal Growth and Mindfulness

Beyond entertainment, reading challenges are a way to grow. Whether it’s expanding cultural awareness, learning new skills, or simply slowing down with a good story, these goals turn reading into a mindful, rewarding practice.

Popular Types of Reading Challenges

Numeric Goals

The simplest kind: set a number and aim to hit it. “Read 20 books this year” remains a favorite starting point for many readers.

Themed Challenges

Think seasonal themes (spooky horror in October, beach reads in July) or prompts that encourage variety (“a book with a one-word title,” “a classic you’ve never read”).

Time-Based Challenges

Short bursts of intense reading like 24-hour or weekend readathons help readers tackle their TBR piles in one go.

Community-Based Challenges

From online book clubs to local library events, these challenges emphasize shared experiences. Discussion groups and hashtag challenges add another layer of connection.

How to Join or Start a Reading Challenge

  • Use Existing Platforms: Goodreads and StoryGraph both offer built-in goal trackers.
  • Follow Book Bloggers or Bookstagrammers: Many post printable reading challenge templates or monthly prompts.
  • Create Your Own: Choose goals that fit your tastes—more nonfiction, more classics, or more books by diverse authors.
  • Track Progress: Spreadsheets, journals, or apps can help you keep tabs on your journey.
  • Stay Flexible: Life happens. Challenges should enhance reading, not make it stressful.

Tips for Success

  • Break larger goals into monthly or seasonal mini-goals.
  • Mix in short, light reads with denser books to keep momentum going.
  • Share your progress—accountability makes it more fun.
  • Adjust when needed. The true aim is enjoyment, not pressure.


Reading challenges aren’t just about checking boxes; they’re about rediscovering the joy of reading in a focused, intentional way. They motivate, connect, and inspire us to explore beyond our usual picks. Whether you join a global challenge or design your own, the key is to enjoy the journey. After all, every page turned brings you one step closer to your goal—and to the endless worlds waiting inside books.


Ready to start your own challenge? Explore BookPriceCheck’s Reading Challenges and discover books to help you reach your goals this year.