Finding a good book

I am a book worm. Since a youngster I have had a handful of books I love (starting with Little House on the Prairie). I will brag here, because it is a fun fact and maybe it isn't that big of a deal because you have done it too, but I aced (that's right, perfect score) the reading comprehension section on the ACT. I read a lot and have no compunctions with putting an unfinished book back in the library book drop. I get asked a lot, what are you reading? or how do you pick your books? So here I list of how I find a good book.

1. New Release shelf. Honestly, I look at the titles and covers. A good cover draws me in. That's what the designers are paid for and it works.
2. Reading Group Choices This is a great index of books that many book groups love.
3. Goodreads.com This is so fabulous because you can see what your friends are reading. Also, I have made cyber friends that have given me good recommendations.
4. Books referenced within a book. I missed a lot of classics somewhere along the way. Usually the 'characters' I like have good taste.
5. Book Group. We have had greats and duds. Whatever the outcome of the meeting someone has read a good book in the last month and that is worth learning.
6. Airports, waiting rooms, and hotel libraries. Our apartment in Rome had a stack of books that old residents had contributed to over the years. In fact, that is when I started reading for fun again. That is where I 'met' Harry Potter.

I do take relatively long breaks from reading. My house, kids and hubby need more attention at times. The only draw back is that when I get 'off the couch' that I get a stack of 5-10 books and drown in happy reading. Good luck to you in search of a good read!