Have you ever imagined what it would be like to travel the world in one year, experiencing every culture, every genre, and every story imaginable? For many of us, the cost, logistics, and sheer time commitment would make such a quest nearly impossible. But what if you could embark on that journey without ever leaving your favorite reading spot? The Around the Year in 80 Books challenge invites you to experience the thrill of exploration, adventure, and discovery—all through the pages of carefully chosen books. This ambitious reading quest is about expanding horizons, broadening your understanding, and traveling through words.
The challenge is simple in concept but requires commitment: read 80 books in a year, each one adding a new layer to your literary adventure. Whether you aim to read classics, visit different countries through their literature, or explore new genres, this challenge will push your boundaries and leave you richer for the experience. It’s not just about the number—it’s about the journey, the diversity, and the transformation that comes with reading extensively and with purpose.
Why Take on the 80-Book Challenge?
The idea of reading 80 books in a year may sound daunting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Challenges like this are designed to help us step outside of our comfort zones, to dive into stories we might not have otherwise discovered. With 80 books, you can fit in just about everything—literary classics, contemporary must-reads, different cultures, and new genres that broaden your worldview. The challenge is less about counting the books and more about giving yourself permission to get lost in a wide variety of stories.
A goal like 80 books also adds structure and motivation to your reading life. It helps break up the monotony that can come from getting stuck in a reading rut—reading the same types of books or authors over and over. Having a number in mind creates a sense of accomplishment and drives you to explore new worlds and voices you might otherwise overlook.
Planning Your Epic Reading Adventure
A journey of 80 books requires some planning, especially if you want your reading list to be as diverse and fulfilling as possible. Here are some ideas to make your reading quest dynamic, diverse, and memorable.
- Divide and Conquer Genres
Start by dividing your reading list into different genres. A major advantage of aiming for 80 books is that you have room to mix things up. You can explore literary fiction, thrillers, fantasy, historical fiction, biographies, essays, and even graphic novels. By dividing the list into sections, you can ensure that you’re getting a well-rounded reading experience. This approach also keeps things fresh—you can jump from a gripping thriller to a thought-provoking classic and then move on to a heartwarming romance. Diversity in genre ensures you won’t burn out on any one type of story. - Travel Through Literature
Make it a goal to visit as many countries as possible. Books are the perfect way to immerse yourself in different cultures, traditions, and perspectives without leaving home. You could read Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Half of a Yellow Sun” to get a glimpse into Nigeria, follow Haruki Murakami’s magical realism in Japan with “Kafka on the Shore,” and dive into the history of Colombia with Gabriel García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” Exploring the world through literature is an incredible way to expand your horizons while supporting diverse voices. - Include Classics and Modern Masterpieces
Classics have stood the test of time for a reason—they offer timeless lessons, enduring stories, and insights into human nature. Reading classics such as Leo Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina,” George Orwell’s “1984,” or Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” will enrich your literary journey and provide a connection to the past. Pairing these classics with modern masterpieces like Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” or Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” will offer an interesting contrast and show how literature has evolved over the centuries. - Tackle Nonfiction to Broaden Your Knowledge
Adding nonfiction to your reading list can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re interested in history, science, politics, or personal growth, nonfiction provides an opportunity to learn, expand your understanding, and engage with real-world issues. Titles like “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari or Michelle Obama’s memoir “Becoming” are perfect for balancing the fictional stories in your journey. - Incorporate Short Story Collections and Poetry
Not all books need to be lengthy novels. Short story collections and poetry can pack an emotional punch while also providing a change of pace. Consider reading collections like “Interpreter of Maladies” by Jhumpa Lahiri or “Her Body and Other Parties” by Carmen Maria Machado. Poetry collections, such as those by Mary Oliver or Rupi Kaur, can also serve as a powerful respite from longer narratives.
Keeping the Momentum: How to Stay on Track
Reading 80 books in a year is a considerable challenge, especially when faced with the realities of work, family, and other commitments. Here are some strategies to help you stay on track and enjoy the journey.
- Set Monthly Goals
Break down the challenge into manageable monthly goals. 80 books in a year averages to about 6-7 books per month. By focusing on a monthly goal, the challenge feels less overwhelming, and you’ll be more likely to stay on track. Each completed book brings a sense of accomplishment, making it easier to keep up your reading momentum. - Read Different Formats
Don’t limit yourself to traditional paperbacks or hardcovers. Audiobooks and e-books can be lifesavers when time is short or when you’re on the go. Audiobooks are perfect for commutes, walks, or household chores—they let you “read” even when you’re busy. E-books can be particularly handy for travel, allowing you to bring multiple books without the extra weight. - Join a Reading Community
Find an online or local book club or reading group that shares your interest in books. Goodreads is a great platform to track your reading, share reviews, and connect with others taking on similar challenges. Being part of a community can help keep you accountable and provide a space to share thoughts, discuss books, and receive recommendations. - Mix Heavy and Light Reads
Mixing heavy, complex books with lighter, fast-paced reads can help keep you motivated. If you’ve just finished a dense, 700-page classic, follow it up with a fun romance or an engaging thriller. Balancing lighter and heavier reads helps prevent burnout and makes the journey more enjoyable. - Take Notes and Reflect
As you read, keep a journal to jot down quotes, thoughts, or reflections. This practice helps solidify what you’ve learned or felt during your reading, and it’s also a great way to look back on your journey once you’ve completed the challenge. Reflection can make your reading experience deeper and more meaningful, ensuring you take something valuable away from each book.
Benefits of an 80-Book Reading Adventure
Undertaking an ambitious reading quest like this is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey of personal growth and exploration. One of the most rewarding aspects is the sheer variety of stories and ideas you will encounter. You’ll move from historical dramas to sci-fi epics, from personal memoirs to poetic reflections. By diving into such an array of stories, you’re giving yourself the chance to see the world through countless different lenses.
This reading challenge also fosters empathy. Every book allows you to step into someone else’s shoes, experience their life, and understand their emotions. Whether it’s a character from a distant historical period or someone facing contemporary struggles, reading opens your mind to the diversity of human experiences. It enhances your ability to relate to others and helps you to see situations from multiple perspectives.
Moreover, reading extensively improves your own skills as a thinker and communicator. Engaging with various genres, styles, and authors expands your vocabulary, sharpens your critical thinking, and exposes you to different narrative techniques. The mental exercise involved in reading frequently has been shown to improve focus and even slow cognitive decline, keeping your mind agile and active.
Creating Memories and Building a Legacy
The beauty of the Around the Year in 80 Books challenge is not just in the reading itself but in the memories you create along the way. Each book becomes a marker of the year—a reminder of the moods, places, and events that defined your life as you read it. Some books will resonate with you in unexpected ways, leaving an impact that lingers long after you’ve closed the cover.
Consider documenting your journey beyond a reading journal—maybe by sharing reviews online or creating a blog. Writing about what you’ve read can help you process your thoughts and remember the books more vividly. Sharing your journey might even inspire others to embark on their own reading adventures.
As you progress through the year, you’ll find that reading isn’t just an activity; it’s a habit, a refuge, and a bridge to new ideas and far-off places. The satisfaction that comes from completing such an ambitious goal—80 books in 365 days—is immense. But even more rewarding is the person you become along the way—more knowledgeable, empathetic, and open-minded.
So, gather your list, make room on your bookshelf, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Around the Year in 80 Books is more than a challenge; it’s an invitation to rediscover the magic of storytelling, to explore the world without limits, and to enrich your life in unexpected and wonderful ways.
