Find a good book

The worst part about finishing a book is trying to decide which book to pick up next.

So where to look? Over the years, I'd listen to clips on public radio and when something sounded intriguing, I'd jot down the name. It's still a good source. Check out the NPR website for a sample. <http://www.npr.org/books/>

Lately though I've been expanding my range. I've become something of a Books-on-the-Nightstand blog/podcast junkie. So far I've listened to the 2012 episodes and most of 2011. What can I say, the discussions are fun and the show is always over too quickly. It's a nice change of pace from news shows or music.

I've also signed up on the library's web site for the Next Reads newsletter. Once a month, I receive an email with a list of new books segregated by genre. So there's a list for each: armchair travel, A to Z fiction, historical fiction, biography/memoir, history/current events, fantasy, business/finance, home & garden and more. These lists are short, but include enough information to pique my interest. Click on the "check library catalog" link, and there's the book on the library catalog page. Easy. One more click and I can request the book to be held for me. Be forewarned, however. In this way lies trouble; picture an endless parade of books stacking up at the library, impatiently waiting for you. If you feel like throwing caution to the wind, sign up by clicking on the Next Reads link in the left column of the library's home page. <http://www.noblenet.org/lynnfield/>

I've also been checking titles at She is too fond of books. The site includes Dawn's reviews (Dawn is She), author interviews, and bookstore profiles. <http://www.sheistoofondofbooks.com/>

You can also go to the New York Times web site and click on their best seller's list by genre to get their top selling book lists. Each book has a brief description and if a book has been previously reviewed, you can click on the link to get to the full review. < http://www.nytimes.com/pages/books/index.html>

If you're looking to buy books online, forget Amazon. The home page doesn't even list books upfront anymore. I'm sure they're there, but why bother? Opt instead for Seattle's megastore, Powell's. They have a huge selection and great thumbnail reviews by their staff. <http://www.powells.com/>

Even better is the local indie option, Brookline Booksmith. They have lots of book info, but also host author events continually and maintain that list on online. <http://www.brooklinebooksmith.com/>

Do you have a favorite place to go find out about books? I'd love to know about it. Let's compare notes.