I know some people can’t fathom stopping in the middle of a book. They’re determined to finish what they’ve started, no matter how much it drags, how little it resonates, or how uninspiring the writing is. They feel like there’s a certain honor in completing a book once they’ve cracked it open, a sense of accomplishment tied to reaching the last page. I get that, really. But for me, there’s a different approach.
I have no problem quitting a book if I’m not enjoying myself. I’m not in a race to finish every title I begin, and I’ve learned over time that life is too short to spend reading something that doesn’t captivate me. In fact, I’d argue that quitting a book I’m not connecting with is one of the best things I can do for my reading life. Here’s the thing: there are too many good books out there to waste time on a bad one or one I just can’t vibe with. Whether it’s the style of the writing, the pacing, or a plot that just doesn’t grip me, I’d rather move on to something else that sparks my interest. There’s no shame in that. I’m not saying that I bail on books at the first hint of trouble, but if I’m a third of the way through and still not feeling it, I give myself permission to walk away. By adopting this mindset, I end up reading more of the books I truly love. I get to explore different genres, new authors, and stories that speak to me personally. The beauty of not forcing yourself to finish every book is that it opens up the space to discover more gems that you might not have found if you’d kept trudging through the one that wasn’t doing it for you.
I also believe this approach helps me read better books. If I give myself the freedom to walk away from books that don’t grab me, I can devote more time to the ones that do. The more I read books that truly engage me, the more I learn, grow, and enjoy the process. The goal isn’t to check off a book from a to-read list; it’s to dive into stories that transport me, make me think, and give me that deep satisfaction that comes with a truly great read.
So, here’s my advice: give yourself permission to quit. Trust that there are plenty of other books waiting for you. And in the end, you’ll end up reading more books that you love—and that’s the most important part.
Here are a few recommendations from various genres. Each of these books has a strong following for their storytelling, style, and depth. They’re the kinds of reads that might just draw you in from the first page, making it easy to want to finish them.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern – If you haven’t read it yet, this whimsical and atmospheric novel might be exactly what you’re looking for. The enchanting circus setting and unique storytelling style have captivated readers, making it a standout in modern fantasy.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid – If you enjoy character-driven narratives, this one takes a deep dive into the life of a Hollywood legend. It’s a great pick for fans of historical fiction and rich, emotional stories.
Circe by Madeline Miller – A powerful retelling of Greek mythology through the eyes of Circe, this book has been praised for its lush writing and strong, engaging female lead. It combines history, fantasy, and mythology in a way that’s both thoughtful and engrossing.
The Martian by Andy Weir – If you love science fiction, this fast-paced, humor-filled story of survival on Mars will keep you hooked. It’s well-written with enough scientific detail to be realistic but with a lighthearted touch that makes it an easy and enjoyable read.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty – A great option if you like contemporary fiction with a twist. This novel expertly blends humor, drama, and suspense, exploring the dark secrets of seemingly perfect suburban lives.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari – If you’re interested in world history but want something engaging and non-dry, this book offers a fascinating, thought-provoking exploration of human history in a highly readable format.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides – A psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page, this book is perfect if you like suspense and intricate plotting. It’s a gripping story that you won’t want to put down.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens – For fans of literary fiction, this beautiful, atmospheric novel explores loneliness, nature, and the coming-of-age of a girl in the swampy South. It’s a slow-burn, but its poetic prose and evocative setting make it well worth the time.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune – If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming and whimsical read, this LGBTQ+ fantasy about a social worker who is assigned to an orphanage for magical children is touching, charming, and full of hope.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir – Another pick by Weir, this one combines science, space adventure, and humor in a way that makes it a thrilling read, especially if you liked “The Martian.”
These books vary in genre and style, but all are well-loved and have the potential to hook you from the first chapter. By following your instinct to read books you connect with, you can build a collection of stories that truly enrich your reading experience.