by Anessa Olson

We’re so busy all the time that it is easy to get stuck in a reading rut, going back to the same authors or genres over and over again. But sometimes it is nice to stretch your legs a little bit, to try something new. Moreover, reading books a little outside of your normal comfort zone can help you consider other perspectives, and even find new favorites you may not have expected. The Ames Public Library’s second annual 12 to Try reading challenge offers you the opportunity to do just that.

Every month between September 2024 and August 2025 will feature a new challenge category. You can choose any book you like as long as it fits a category. If you’re not sure what book to choose, the library will have displays of books that fit each category, and will be publishing lists of suggestions online and on social media.  If none of the books on display appeals to you, the helpful Adult Services staff are always happy to make recommendations.

Feel free to complete the challenge at your own pace, and in the order most comfortable for you.  Although the challenge is designed around one book per month, you can read ahead or take your time to savor longer titles as you need.  Just make sure to complete the challenge before August 31, 2025 to win a special prize! 

Here are the categories:  

• September: Any genre fiction such as mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, etc.
   
• October: A food memoir or cookbook about a food culture different from your own. 
   
• November: A book that has been banned or challenged, including adult or youth books.
   
• December: An anthology or “best ___ writing of the year” book. 
   
• January: An award-winning book from the last decade, 2014-2024.
   
• February: A classic written by a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or person of color) author.
   
• March: A book featuring a body-positive message. 
   
• April: The last book in a series. 
   
• May: A book from the young adult or juvenile collection by an Asian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander author. 
   
• June: A biography or memoir by or about an LGBTQIA+ person.
   
• July: Choose a book purely based on its cover. 
   
• August: A book that celebrates Black joy.