2025 & 2026 Reading Challenge discussion

Spring Cleaning for the Soul
Duration: April 1, 2016 to April 30, 2016

During spring time so many of us set out to clean our houses from top to bottom, but wouldn’t it be nice to also declutter our lives as well?

For April, instead of the usual challenge to read books specific to the theme, we thought we would look inward instead of out. Let’s read some books that clean up our souls and minds.

Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Read a self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while.
- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally.
- Read a book by someone you find heroic or inspiring.
- Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it.

You decide the number of books to read, and when you post your progress let us know how each book touched you.

This challenge is based on an idea from Stephanie (R/A) and she will be leading this challenge. Thank you Stephanie (R/A)

Great, much needed. I'm in for some spring cleaning. I'll aim for 3 books.

1. A Time For New Dreams
2. I Will Not Die an Unlived Life: Reclaiming Purpose and Passion
3. Stir: My Broken Brain and the Meals That Brought Me Home

Please count me in for five :)

1. Everyday Sexism - Inspiring bravery by many women who have shared their stories of everyday sexism.
2. Getting to 50/50: How Working Parents Can Have It All - Self improvement book relevant to my life as a working mother.
3. A Thousand Lives: The Untold Story of Hope, Deception, and Survival at Jonestown - Book on the Jonestown massacre, that includes the stories of individuals who survived.
4. Fates and Furies - Beautifully written book. The characters themselves weren't particularly likable or inspiring, but the prose was gorgeous.
5. Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City - Sad and emotionally touching.

5/5

I will try just one book to this :

- Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it.

That will be Sexta-Feira ou a vida Selvagem , the original title is Vendreri ou la vie sauvage

Hi. I'm in for 4.
@Stephanie: Awesome idea for a challenge.. :)

Read: 3/4
- Read a self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while-
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally-
The Alchemist ★★★★★

- Read a book by someone you find heroic or inspiring-
The Diary of a Young Girl ★★★★★ Review

- Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it-
From Dust and Ashes: A Story of Liberation- ★★★☆☆ review

Wow, look at me not being on the ball here (Easter snuck up on me too). So, I guess I will keep track of participants here. Sorry guys. Big things happening in the house.

Participant Stats

A Little Soul- 2/4
Alex- 0/1
Chelsea- 0/5
Cynthia- 0/2
Ela- 1/3
Erika- 0/3
Gabriella- 0/2
Jenny- 0/5
Ju- 1/2
Julie- 0/1
Kadijah Michelle- 0/6
Lindsay- 0/3
Lindsey- 0/10
Niecie- 2/4
Patricia- 2/3
Renee- 0/2
Sharon- 0/2
Wanda- 0/5
Yenny- 0/3

Completed Challenger Stats

Cassandra- 5/4
Daniela- 1/1
Emma- 3/3
Jackie B- 3/3
Jessica- 5/5
Katharine- 3/2
Kelly- 3/3
Kristal- 1/1
Lauren (:- 1/1
Linda- 3/3
Maria- 2/2
Nicole- 3/2
Rachel- 2/2
Sam F- 2/2
Stephanie (R-A)- 4/4

And, so I can keep track of my own part of this challenge, I am aiming for 4. I am aiming to read:

1. I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban Finished 4/10/2016
2. Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet Finished 4/11/2016
3. Speak Finished 4/21/2016
4. Shatter Me Finished 4/22/2016

Total Read: 4/4

Count me in for 1 book.

I'll try 1 book to start too.

I'll try this out - I'll aim for 2 books.

I'll try to read 2 books about people who inspire me.

1. Bossypants by Tina Fey
2. Yes Please by Amy Poehler

I'll try for 1 for this challenge!
1. Where's My Stuff?: The Ultimate Teen Organizing Guide by Samantha Moss
Total Read: 1/1
Challenge Completed on April 9, 2016

I'm in, and I'll aim for a minimum of 2.

I am in for 5. Not sure what I'll read yet. :)

Please count me in for three

I'll try for three!

I'm in for 3


1. A self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while.
***God Wants You Happy: From Self-Help to God's Help***

2. A book by someone you find heroic or inspiring.
***If You Ask Me by Betty White***

3. A book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it
***A Lesson Before Dying***

Completed (3/3)

I'm in for 4
Read a self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while. The 5 Choices: The Path to Extraordinary Productivity
- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally -- tbd

- Read a book by someone you find heroic or inspiring.Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
- Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it--tbd

I'm in for 2!

I am in for 5!

Not going to commit to which ones just because I am horrible with that stuff.

I'm in for 2.

I'm going to try for 4, I think. :)

I know one of my books will be Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail but I'm not sure about the rest yet.

Put me down for 1, please.

- Read a self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while: The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You

I'll try for 2:

No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline and Testament of Youth

I'll go in for three please!

Spring Cleaning for the Soul
Duration: April 1, 2016 to April 30, 2016

For April, instead of the usual challenge to read books specific to the theme, we thought we would look inward instead of out. Let’s read some books that clean up our souls and minds.

1. Shtum by Jem Lester ✔

Wow, this book has left me feeling emotionally drained but I find it to be very inspirational. It is hard to remember that this is a fictional piece as it deals so accurately and cleverly with the reality of having a child with autism. I work with some autistic children and I always find myself feeling inspired by them and their families. This book shows just how difficult home life can be for those affected families and the love and sacrifices I saw being described left me feeling truly inspired. Incredible.

2. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank ✔

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Anne Frank is a hero and an inspiration. The real tragedy of this diary is reading Anne's many aspirations and dreams for her future; the bright future that she should have had. It is with sadness and a heavy heart that we get this unique insight into this wonderful young woman and her life, all the while knowing that her life was tragically cut so short. A really poignant read.

3. Bossypants by Tina Fey ✔

Tina Fey has been one of my favourite celebrities for a while now and listening to her audiobook has made me admire her even more. I love the way in which she approached a variety of topics with such honesty about her personal experiences. For example, her internal debate over whether she should have more children. I thought this was a hilarious read but was also inspired by the way in which she views and discusses issues such as ageism and feminist thoughts.

COMPLETE: 3/3

For April, instead of the usual challenge to read books specific to the theme, we thought we would look inward instead of out. Let’s read some books that clean up our souls and minds.
I'll go with 2
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Read a self-improvement book you've been meaning to get to for a while.
- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally.
Eat, Pray, Love
- Read a book about someone you find heroic or inspiring.
Opening Day: The Story of Jackie Robinson's First Season
- Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it.

I will be reading 6 small Islamic books on faith. Ramadan is coming soon and this is the perfect challenge for me to start getting ready.

0/6

I'm in for five books
Progress: 5/5

Complete!

1. Secrets of the Celtic Cross - read 4/7 **** (I highly recommend this book if you are interested in tarot card readings and how they can help you in life)
2. Judaism - read 4/26 *** Good reference book for introduction to Judaism (spiritually inspiring)
3. Hinduism - read 4/26 *** Basic introduction to Hinduism (spiritually inspiring)
4. The Giver - read 4/25 ***** Great book about a dystopian future where people give their feelings over to a "receiver" so they don't have to deal with issues (character growth)
5. Velvet Underground & Nico - read 4/13 **** good book that shows how much influence this one album had on the punk and rock and roll music

Read bookshelf

I'm in - going for 10 books.

Will add as I read!

Goal: 10

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Welcome everyone! Happy to have you on board!

I'm in for at least 2.

Goal: 2 books

1. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman (4/14/16) ✦✧✦✧✦
The strength and courage of a young boy facing dears that would break many reminds me of my own, frequently hidden, capability to be strong.

2. Island Of The Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell (4/17/16) ✦✧✦✧✦
A young girl overcomes many barriers to open the minds of others. One person can make a difference.

3. Earth Girl by Janet Edwards (4/27/16) ✦✧✦✧
A young woman defies societal norms and overcomes obstacles to follow her dreams.

1/2

- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally.

When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker An inspirational story about a woman who dies of cancer but leaves letters for her husband to find after her death.

Maria wrote: "1/2

- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally.

When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker An inspirational story about a woman who dies of cancer but leaves letters for her husband to fin..."

Wow! Great job finishing your first book on the first day of the month!

- Read a book that inspires you, spirituality or emotionally.

Probably 'Band of Brothers' by Stephen E. Ambrose.

A fantastic book that was made into a great film (I think).

Hi Stephanie. I've edited my post. I'll be aiming for 4. Could you add my new goal to the list, please?

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Maria wrote: "1/2

- Read a book that inspires you, spiritually or emotionally.

When I'm Gone by Emily Bleeker An inspirational story about a woman who dies of cancer but leaves letters for her ..."

Thanks! I started it in March, but ya I'm at a good pace to finish this challenge this time.

Nick wrote: "- Read a book that inspires you, spirituality or emotionally.

Probably 'Band of Brothers' by Stephen E. Ambrose.

A fantastic book that was made into a great film (I think)."

Are you going to read that book for the challenge or are you recommending it for those who are looking. You are certainly welcome to join :)

A Little Soul wrote: "Hi Stephanie. I've edited my post. I'll be aiming for 4. Could you add my new goal to the list, please?"

Your goal has been edited. Thanks for letting me know!

Update from #10:

Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it.

Rosemary and Rue by Seanan McGuire - October is a my favourite kind of character, flawed and determined and who learns all kinds of hard lessons and truths as she finds her way through her story. Loved this book, a definite favourite for the year.

Ju wrote: "Update from #10:

Read a book where the character grows and changes to the point that their lives are better for it.

Rosemary and Rue by Seanan McGuire - October is a my favourite ..."

Oooh, I am going to read that book this month as well. Good to know you liked it so much!

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Oooh, I am going to read that book this month as well. Good to know you liked it so much! ."

I hope you enjoy it just as much!

Updated #25.

1. Shtum by Jem Lester

Wow, this book has left me feeling emotionally drained but I find it to be very inspirational. It is hard to remember that this is a fictional piece as it deals so accurately and cleverly with the reality of having a child with autism. I work with some autistic children and I always find myself feeling inspired by them and their families. This book shows just how difficult home life can be for those affected families and the love and sacrifices I saw being described left me feeling truly inspired. Incredible.

1/3 done.

Update msg#17 (3/3) completed

Kelly wrote: "Updated #25.

1. Shtum by Jem Lester

Wow, this book has left me feeling emotionally drained but I find it to be very inspirational. It is hard to remember that this is a fictiona..."

Thank you for sharing your reading experience. I got interested in the book and am going to try to read it, too - if not for this challenge then at my leisure.

Can I still join in please? I'm aiming for two books even though I might only finish one... But it's supposed to be a challenge after all, right? ;-)

Will share my books when I actually start reading them.

I'll join in this challenge for April! I'll shoot for 3 books:

Being Peace by Hanh Nhat Thich - A book about finding the peace within you
Charlotte's Web by E.B. White - A book about growing beyond your limits
How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran - A book about letting go and being who you are

Wow! What a fascinating journey. The books I picked originally were to push me and help me grow. But, as the month moved on, I realized that mysoul wasn't growing from these. I felt exhausted and bogged down trying to slog through these more mentally taxing books. My life just wasn't allowing me to enjoy these. So, instead, I changed direction and read books that lifted my soul and made me happy:
How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran - completed 4/17
The Little Lady Agency by Hester Browne - completed 4/10
Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs - completed 4/24

3/3

Ela wrote: "Can I still join in please? I'm aiming for two books even though I might only finish one... But it's supposed to be a challenge after all, right? ;-)

Will share my books when I actually start read..."

Of course you can still join! I have added you to the participant stats. Happy reading!

Linda wrote: "Update msg#17 (3/3) completed"

Congratulations! Not bad, three books in four days :) Way to go! I haven't even finished my first yet.

Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Linda wrote: "Update msg#17 (3/3) completed"

Congratulations! Not bad, three books in four days :) Way to go! I haven't even finished my first yet."

Thanks Stephanie
For the past 10 years, I've been what I call a lazy reader. Only reading a few chapters at bedtime, averaging 60 to 70 books a year. I have decided to do more reading and less TV. I have 6 yearly challenges going, including 2 PopSugar's which involves a lot of reading.

Linda wrote: "Stephanie (R-A) wrote: "Linda wrote: "Update msg#17 (3/3) completed"

Congratulations! Not bad, three books in four days :) Way to go! I haven't even finished my first yet."

Thanks Stephanie
For t..."

I have a lot of yearly challenges going too (somewhere in the neighborhood of 10) but there is no way I would ever read 3 books in the first four days of a month. Of course, I probably also won't complete all my challenges, so there you go :) Basically, I am still impressed.