Setting New Literary Goals for 2026: A Year of Reading Ahead

As the calendar turns to a new year, many readers are setting ambitious literary goals. A self-described book enthusiast reflects on their reading achievements and aspirations for 2026. The writer, who had aimed to read 175 books in 2025, ultimately completed 92 books and has shifted their focus to more achievable objectives for the coming year.

In 2025, the goal of reducing the physical to-be-read (TBR) shelf by 25% proved successful, albeit through unexpected means. Starting the year with 189 unread books, the total was reduced to 128 by year’s end. The writer expressed pride in this accomplishment, noting plans to decrease the number further, aiming for under 100 unread titles in 2026.

A key goal for the new year is to limit new book purchases to 50, a challenge that was met with mixed results last year. While the writer initially struggled, they successfully bought only 34 new books in 2025, a significant reduction compared to previous years.

Another ambitious target was to read the entire Bible within the year. Although the writer started strong, the self-study edition’s annotations and historical context slowed progress. Currently paused in the book of Psalms, the intention is to continue from where they left off in 2026.

Innovative Approaches to Reading Goals

Collaboration with fellow book lover Cheyenne has introduced a creative method to tackle the TBR pile. Together, they have created a spinning wheel featuring 26 unread titles, allowing them to select their reading choices every two weeks. The first selection for 2026 is “12 Years a Slave” by Solomon Northup.

Additionally, the duo has adjusted their must-read lists, reducing the number of required books from five to three for 2026. The selected titles include “The Compound” by Aisling Rawle, “Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, and “Dinner for Vampires” by Bethany Joy Lenz. A further recommendation from Nick includes “The Nickel Boys” by Colson Whitehead.

Despite not reaching their previous reading goal of 100 books last year, the writer is determined to stick with it in 2026. The combination of the spinning wheel, must-read lists, and participation in a book club will account for about half of the reading, leaving ample room for personal selections.

Writing also features prominently in the writer’s goals for 2026. With a desire to pursue a long-held idea for a novel, they plan to carve out time for creative writing outside of their professional responsibilities. The hope is that this endeavor will not only advance the novel but also enhance their writing skills for their current role.

While ambitious reading targets are set, the writer emphasizes that any amount of reading is an achievement. According to The Washington Post, completing just two books in a year means surpassing the reading habits of over half of U.S. adults. Reading 50 or more books places individuals in the top 1% of readers.

As life becomes increasingly busy, the writer encourages everyone to celebrate even small reading accomplishments. Whether it is finishing just one book or achieving grand literary goals, the important aspect is to enjoy the journey of reading.