I read 90 books in 2022!

I love to read (fictions mostly - I'm living in the reality, don't need more of it in my books)!

I can truly say that 2022 has been a great year for me in terms of expanding my knowledge of writing styles, and travelling the world through books. In the beginning of 2022, I set myself a goal to read 50 books and I am happy to report that I not only met this goal, but I exceeded it.

As someone who has always been an avid reader, I have always tried to read a wide variety of genres and authors. However, this year I made a conscious effort to read murder mysteries and thrillers. So, it goes without saying, I re-read all the ones from Agatha Christie, my favorite person in the whole wide world! Okay, if I'm being truthful, I have covered all of Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, and half of Tommy and Tuppence. The remaining I will read in 2023.

6 book recommendations for you

This is what I learned about writing after reading so many books

One of the main things that I learned from reading so many books this year is the importance of diversity in literature. Reading books by authors from diverse backgrounds not only helped me to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and ways of life, but it also exposed me to new ideas and perspectives that I may not have encountered otherwise. It was a truly enriching experience and one that I plan to continue in the future - even though I was disappointed by some of the new-age writers.

Another thing that I learned from my reading this year is the power of storytelling. Stories that resonated with me the most were those that were able to transport me to another place or time, and make me feel as though I was truly a part of the world that was being described. As a marketer, I know how important storytelling is for promoting a product or service. But it is much more important in case of a book, because you know, that's the only reason for writing it!

The vivid descriptions of a far-off land, the complex and relatable characters, or the stupendous ways of poisoning people, the books that had me in awe were those of Christie's. Another book that I loved (it's currently my topmost favourite book) is A Man Called Ove. It stayed with me long after I had finished reading it. It not only captured my imagination through its storytelling, it also engaged me emotionally.

Writing styles and storytelling (or not!)

One of the most interesting things that I learned about styles of writing is the vast range of approaches and techniques that authors can use to tell their stories. From straightforward narrative styles to more experimental and unconventional approaches, I encountered a wide variety of writing styles and techniques. Some kept my reading experience fresh and engaging, and others made it dull and drab.

One of the styles of writing that particularly stood out to me was the use of multiple perspectives and points of view. Many of the books that I read this year featured multiple characters whose stories were interwoven and told from different perspectives. This approach not only helped to create a more complex and layered narrative, but it also allowed the reader to gain a deeper understanding of the motivations and experiences of each character.

Another writing style that I really appreciated was the use of descriptive language to create vivid and immersive settings. Whether it was a sweeping epic set in a fantasy world or a grounded and realistic portrayal of a small town, the authors that were able to bring their settings to life through their writing really helped to transport me to another place and time.

The writing style I hated (but still read too many off these books) has to be the ones I read on Kindle Unlimited. Some of them are termed as NY Bestsellers! All I can say is that these books have the same plot, same kind of characters who are defined based on their clothes, and silly writing/storytelling. They are supposed to be psychological thrillers, but are they!?

Reading 90 books in 2022 was a truly enriching experience that taught me a lot about the world, people, history, and storytelling. I am grateful for having the time and opportunity to read so many incredible books, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow through reading in the future.