Level Up Your Reading Game with Book Riot's Read Harder 2016 Challenge

Book Riot's Read Harder Challenge 2016 pushes readers to expand their literary horizons with 24 diverse reading tasks. Get ready to read harder!

Book Riot's Read Harder Challenge for 2016 is a literary adventure that will push readers to explore new genres, authors, and perspectives. From reading a book written by an author under the age of 25 to delving into a graphic novel, this challenge is designed to encourage diverse and thought-provoking reading experiences. Whether you're a seasoned reader looking to expand your horizons or a newbie hoping to discover new literary treasures, Book Riot's Read Harder Challenge is the perfect way to elevate your reading game.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Read Harder Challenge is the opportunity to explore genres that you may have overlooked in the past. For example, one of the challenge tasks is to read a horror book. If you're someone who has always been hesitant to venture into the horror genre, this task can be a great way to test the waters and discover some truly spine-tingling reads. And if you're already a fan of horror, this task can offer a chance to delve deeper into the genre and discover some hidden gems.

The Read Harder Challenge also includes tasks that encourage readers to engage with social issues and diverse perspectives. For example, one task asks readers to read a book about race, ethnicity, or immigration. This is a powerful way to explore themes of identity, inequality, and cultural exchange through the lens of literature. By reading books that tackle these important topics, readers can gain a greater understanding of the complexities of the world we live in and become more empathetic and informed citizens.

Another exciting aspect of the Read Harder Challenge is the opportunity to discover new voices in literature. One task asks readers to read a book by a transgender or genderqueer author, for example. By seeking out works by authors whose experiences and perspectives may be different from our own, we can broaden our understanding of the world and gain new insights into the human experience. This task, and others like it, offer a chance to discover talented writers who may not have received the attention they deserve.

Of course, the Read Harder Challenge isn't just about discovering new genres or authors. It's also about pushing ourselves to read more widely and deeply. One of the tasks challenges readers to read a book published between 1900 and 1950. By reading books from different eras, we can gain a greater appreciation for the evolution of literature over time and understand how certain themes and styles have endured throughout history.

Another task that encourages readers to stretch their literary muscles is to read a book that has been banned or frequently challenged in your country. By engaging with books that have been deemed controversial or offensive by some, we can explore issues of censorship, free speech, and artistic expression. This task offers a chance to engage with complex and challenging works that may have been overlooked or ignored by mainstream culture.

Throughout the Read Harder Challenge, readers will encounter a wide range of literary experiences, from international works in translation to debut novels from up-and-coming authors. By embracing this diversity, we can expand our understanding of what literature can be and open ourselves up to new possibilities and perspectives.

Ultimately, the Read Harder Challenge is about more than just checking off boxes on a list. It's about engaging with literature in a meaningful way and pushing ourselves to read more widely, deeply, and thoughtfully. Whether you're a seasoned reader or a newcomer to the world of books, the Read Harder Challenge offers a chance to discover new literary horizons and become a better, more engaged reader.

If you're ready to take on the challenge, head over to Book Riot's website to download the full list of tasks and start planning your reading journey. With 24 tasks to complete, there's no shortage of literary adventures to be had. So grab a book and get ready to read harder!

Introduction

Book Riot Read Harder is an annual reading challenge organized by the online literary magazine, Book Riot. The challenge aims to encourage readers to diversify their reading choices and explore different genres, formats, and authors. The 2016 edition of the challenge featured a set of 24 prompts that participants had to fulfill by reading books that fit the criteria. In this article, we will explore the prompts and some of the books that I read for the challenge.

Prompt 1: Read a horror book

For this prompt, I chose to read The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson. This classic gothic horror novel follows a group of people who stay in a haunted mansion to investigate its paranormal activity. The book is known for its eerie atmosphere, psychological suspense, and complex characters. Reading this book was a thrilling experience, and it reminded me of why I love horror as a genre.

Prompt 2: Read a nonfiction book about science

I picked The Gene: An Intimate History by Siddhartha Mukherjee for this prompt. This book explores the history and the future of genetics, covering topics such as DNA, heredity, evolution, and genetic engineering. The author uses engaging storytelling, vivid examples, and personal anecdotes to make complex scientific concepts accessible and interesting. I learned a lot from this book, and it made me appreciate the beauty and the complexity of life even more.

Prompt 3: Read a collection of essays

Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay was my choice for this prompt. This book is a collection of essays that cover a wide range of topics related to feminism, race, gender, pop culture, and politics. The author's writing is witty, insightful, and honest, and she offers a nuanced perspective on some of the most pressing issues of our time. This book challenged me to think critically about my own beliefs and biases, and it inspired me to become a better ally for marginalized communities.

Prompt 4: Read a book out loud to someone else

For this prompt, I read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein to my nephew. This classic children's book tells the story of a tree that gives everything it has to a boy who grows up to be a man. The book is a poignant and timeless reminder of the beauty and the sacrifice of unconditional love. Reading this book with my nephew was a heartwarming experience, and it reminded me of the power of storytelling to connect generations.

Prompt 5: Read a middle-grade novel

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate was my choice for this prompt. This award-winning novel tells the story of a gorilla who lives in a shopping mall and dreams of freedom. The book is based on a true story, and it deals with themes such as animal rights, friendship, and hope. The author's writing is simple yet profound, and it appeals to readers of all ages. This book touched my heart, and it made me reflect on the importance of compassion and empathy.

Prompt 6: Read a biography (not memoir or autobiography)

I chose Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow for this prompt. This comprehensive biography tells the life story of one of America's founding fathers, from his humble origins in the Caribbean to his tragic death in a duel. The book covers not only Hamilton's political career but also his personal life, his relationships, and his legacy. The author's research is meticulous, and his writing is engaging, making the book a fascinating and informative read.

Prompt 7: Read a dystopian or post-apocalyptic novel

Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel was my choice for this prompt. This literary novel imagines a world where a deadly pandemic has wiped out most of humanity, and a group of actors and musicians travel from town to town, performing Shakespeare and classical music. The book is a meditation on art, memory, and humanity, and it offers a hopeful yet realistic vision of the future. The author's prose is lyrical and evocative, and it creates a vivid and haunting atmosphere.

Prompt 8: Read a book originally published in the decade you were born

I was born in the 1990s, so I decided to read The Secret History by Donna Tartt, which was published in 1992. This cult classic novel follows a group of privileged students at a liberal arts college who become involved in a murder plot. The book is a psychological thriller, a coming-of-age story, and a commentary on the elitism and the nihilism of academia. The author's writing is dense, intricate, and intellectual, making the book a challenging but rewarding read.

Prompt 9: Listen to an audiobook that has won an Audie Award

I listened to All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, which won the Audie Award for Fiction in 2015. This historical novel tells the parallel stories of a blind French girl and a German boy during World War II, and how their paths converge in the midst of the war. The book is a masterpiece of storytelling, with richly drawn characters, vivid descriptions, and a profound sense of empathy. The narrator's performance is also outstanding, bringing the characters and the setting to life.

Prompt 10: Read a book over 500 pages long

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt was my choice for this prompt. This epic novel follows the life of a young boy who survives a terrorist attack at an art museum and becomes obsessed with a painting of a goldfinch. The book is a coming-of-age story, a family saga, a crime thriller, and a meditation on art and beauty. The author's writing is immersive, detailed, and emotionally resonant, making the book a true masterpiece of contemporary literature.

Conclusion

Book Riot Read Harder 2016 was a challenging and rewarding reading experience that allowed me to discover new authors, genres, and perspectives. The prompts were diverse and thought-provoking, and they pushed me out of my comfort zone as a reader. I learned a lot from the books that I read, and I gained a deeper appreciation for the power of literature to broaden our horizons and enrich our lives. I highly recommend participating in the challenge to anyone who loves reading and wants to expand their literary repertoire.

Introduction to Book Riot Read Harder Challenge 2016

Are you looking for a reading challenge that will push you to explore new genres and diverse perspectives? Look no further than the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge 2016. This challenge, created by the Book Riot website, encourages readers to broaden their literary horizons by completing 24 tasks related to reading. From reading a book in translation to tackling a genre-bending novel, this challenge is designed to expand your reading repertoire and challenge your assumptions about what makes a great book.

Diverse reading: Why it's important and how to incorporate it into your challenge

One of the key themes of the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge 2016 is diversity. This means not only reading books by authors from different backgrounds, but also exploring different perspectives and experiences. Why is diverse reading so important? For one, it allows us to gain empathy and understanding for people who are different from us. By reading about characters who come from different cultures, races, genders, and sexual orientations, we can expand our own worldview and become more understanding and compassionate individuals.So how can you incorporate diverse reading into your challenge? Start by seeking out books by authors who are different from you. This might mean reading books by authors of color, LGBTQ+ authors, or authors from different countries. You can also look for books that tackle social justice issues, such as police brutality, immigration, or gender inequality. Finally, seek out books that explore different perspectives, such as books written from the point of view of a child, a person with a disability, or someone from a different socioeconomic background.

Expanding your reading horizons: Tips for stepping out of your comfort zone

One of the goals of the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge is to encourage readers to step out of their comfort zone and try new genres or formats. This might mean reading a poetry collection, a graphic novel, or a play. So how can you expand your reading horizons and try new things?First, be open to trying new genres or formats. If you're used to reading novels, try picking up a book of short stories or essays. If you only read fiction, try reading a memoir or biography. You might be surprised by what you enjoy. You can also seek out recommendations from friends or online communities, such as the Book Riot forums or Goodreads groups.Another way to expand your horizons is to set a goal for yourself. For example, you might decide to read one book from each continent, or to read a certain number of books in a particular genre. By setting a specific goal, you can challenge yourself to try new things and break out of your reading rut.

Non-fiction reading: Why you should give it a try and book recommendations

If you're someone who typically reads fiction, you might be hesitant to try non-fiction. But non-fiction can be just as engaging and thought-provoking as a great novel. In fact, non-fiction can often provide a deeper understanding of the world around us and the issues we face.So why should you give non-fiction a try? For one, it can help you develop critical thinking skills and become a more informed citizen. Non-fiction can also be a great way to learn about topics that interest you, whether that's history, science, or politics. Finally, non-fiction can be just as entertaining as fiction—if you find the right book.Some great non-fiction books to try include Rebecca Solnit's Men Explain Things to Me, which explores gender inequality and the ways in which men often dismiss women's voices. Another excellent book is The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, which examines the ways in which the criminal justice system perpetuates racial inequality. Finally, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot tells the story of a woman whose cells were used for scientific research without her consent, and the impact this had on her family.

Genre-bending books: Exploring books that blur the lines between genres

If you're someone who loves to read but finds yourself getting bored with the same old genres, it might be time to explore books that blur the lines between genres. These books can be difficult to categorize, but they often offer a unique reading experience that combines elements of different genres.One great example of a genre-bending book is The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. This novel combines elements of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction to create a magical and immersive world. Another excellent book is Milkman by Anna Burns, which combines elements of coming-of-age, historical fiction, and political thriller to tell the story of a young woman navigating the Troubles in Northern Ireland.If you're looking for more recommendations, consider checking out the Nebula Awards, which honor science fiction and fantasy books that push the boundaries of genre. You can also look for books that have won the Man Booker Prize or the Pulitzer Prize, as these awards often recognize books that challenge traditional genre boundaries.

Reading books in translation: Why it matters and recommendations for translated works

If you're someone who primarily reads books in English, you might be missing out on some great literature from around the world. Reading books in translation can be a great way to discover new voices and perspectives, and to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.So why should you read books in translation? For one, it can help you develop empathy and understanding for people from different cultures. It can also be a great way to learn about different literary traditions and styles. Finally, reading books in translation can be a great way to challenge your assumptions and expand your worldview.Some great translated works to try include The Vegetarian by Han Kang, which explores the limits of human empathy and the consequences of defying societal norms. Another excellent book is Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, which tells the story of a woman who feels out of place in society and finds solace in her job at a convenience store. Finally, The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a gripping mystery set in post-war Barcelona, with a richly imagined world and memorable characters.

Reading outside of your age range: Why reading YA and children's books is important for adults

If you're an adult who primarily reads books written for adults, you might be missing out on some great literature that's marketed toward younger readers. But why should you read YA or children's books as an adult?For one, these books can offer a fresh perspective on familiar themes and ideas. They can also be a great way to reconnect with the joys of reading that you experienced as a child. Finally, reading YA and children's books can be a great way to share your love of reading with the young people in your life.Some great YA and children's books to try include The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, which explores themes of power, oppression, and rebellion in a dystopian society. Another excellent book is The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, which tells the story of a young girl growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Chicago. Finally, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster is a classic children's book that explores the power of imagination and the importance of curiosity.

Reading books on social issues: Recommendations for books that tackle social justice issues

If you're interested in social justice issues and want to learn more about the challenges facing marginalized communities, there are a wealth of books out there that can help you deepen your understanding. These books can be difficult to read at times, but they can also be incredibly powerful and eye-opening.Some great books on social justice issues include The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, which examines the ways in which the criminal justice system perpetuates racial inequality. Another excellent book is Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates, which explores what it means to be black in America and the impact of systemic racism on black lives. Finally, Evicted by Matthew Desmond tells the stories of families living in poverty and struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

Classics and re-reads: Why revisiting old favorites can enhance your reading experience

While it's important to explore new genres and perspectives, there's also value in revisiting old favorites. Whether it's a book that you loved as a child or a classic that you've always meant to read, re-reading can offer a new perspective and deepen your appreciation for the book.So why should you re-read old favorites? For one, it can help you rediscover what made the book so special to you in the first place. It can also be a great way to pick up on details and themes that you might have missed the first time around. Finally, re-reading can be a great way to reconnect with the emotions and memories that the book evokes.Some great classics to re-read include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, which explores themes of racism and injustice in the American South. Another excellent book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, which tells the story of the Bennet sisters and their search for love and happiness in Regency England. Finally, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic novel that explores the excess and decadence of the Jazz Age.

Wrap-up and reflection: Celebrating your reading accomplishments and what you learned from the challenge

Congratulations on completing the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge 2016! Whether you read all 24 books or just a few, you should be proud of yourself for stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new genres and perspectives.As you reflect on your reading journey, think about what you learned from the challenge. Did you discover a new favorite author or genre? Did you gain a deeper understanding of a social justice issue or cultural tradition? Whatever you learned, take some time to celebrate your accomplishments and set new goals for your reading journey.Remember, reading is a lifelong journey, and there's always something new to discover. So keep exploring, keep challenging yourself, and keep reading.

My Point of View on Book Riot Read Harder 2016

Pros of Book Riot Read Harder 2016

1. Encourages readers to diversify their reading choices:

Book Riot Read Harder 2016 challenges readers to read books that they might not have considered before, such as books by authors of color, books in translation, and books written by LGBTQ+ authors. This encourages readers to broaden their horizons and learn about different perspectives.
This challenge also helps to support underrepresented voices in literature.

2. Flexibility in choosing books:

Book Riot Read Harder 2016 does not provide a specific list of books to read. Instead, it offers categories for readers to choose from, giving them the freedom to pick books that interest them.
This flexibility allows readers to tailor the challenge to their own reading preferences and goals.

Cons of Book Riot Read Harder 2016

1. Can be overwhelming:

The challenge consists of 24 categories, which can be daunting for some readers.
Trying to complete all the categories can be time-consuming and stressful.

2. Categories may not appeal to all readers:

While some readers may find the categories interesting and challenging, others may not be interested in certain topics or genres.
Some readers may feel pressured to read books they are not interested in, just to complete the challenge.

Comparison of Book Riot Read Harder 2016 and Goodreads Reading Challenge

Both Book Riot Read Harder 2016 and Goodreads Reading Challenge encourage readers to set reading goals and track their progress. However, there are some differences between the two challenges:

	Book Riot Read Harder 2016	Goodreads Reading Challenge
Goal Setting	24 categories to complete	Customizable goal (number of books)
Categories/Genres	Includes specific categories to challenge readers	No specific categories/genres
Flexibility	Readers can choose any book to fit into categories	Readers can choose any book to count towards goal
Community	Book Riot hosts online discussion for participants	Goodreads allows for social networking with other readers

Overall, while Book Riot Read Harder 2016 may have some drawbacks, it is a valuable challenge for readers who want to diversify their reading choices and support underrepresented voices in literature.

Closing Message for Book Riot Read Harder 2016

As we come to the end of another year, it's time to reflect on the challenges we set for ourselves and how we fared in achieving them. If one of your goals was to read more and broaden your literary horizons, then the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge was the perfect opportunity to do so.

Over the course of the year, we've explored various genres and themes, delved into diverse perspectives and voices, and discovered some hidden gems that we might not have otherwise encountered. We've also stretched ourselves beyond our comfort zones and gained a deeper appreciation for the power of words and stories.

Whether you completed all the tasks or only a few, whether you read widely or deeply, whether you found new favorites or struggled through some books, the important thing is that you took the time to engage with literature in a meaningful way. You challenged yourself to explore beyond your usual preferences and to consider different perspectives, and that's something to be proud of.

As you reflect on your reading journey this year, here are a few thoughts to keep in mind:

1. Reading is a personal experience. While the challenge provided a framework and prompts, how you approached it and what you gained from it is unique to you. Don't compare yourself to others or feel pressured to conform to certain standards. Enjoy the journey in your own way.

2. Diversity is important. One of the strengths of the challenge was its emphasis on inclusivity and representation. As readers, we have the power to seek out and support voices that have been marginalized or overlooked. Keep seeking out books that broaden your understanding of the world.

3. Reading should be fun. While the challenge may have pushed you out of your comfort zone at times, don't forget to enjoy the process. Reading is a source of pleasure, entertainment, and enlightenment. Don't let the pressure of meeting a challenge detract from that.

4. There's always more to discover. The Read Harder Challenge may be over for this year, but that doesn't mean you should stop exploring new books and genres. Keep pushing yourself to try new things and to broaden your literary horizons. Who knows what gems you'll uncover?

5. Reading is a lifelong journey. Whether you're an avid reader or just starting out, there's always more to learn, discover, and experience through reading. Keep challenging yourself, keep seeking out new perspectives, and keep enjoying the power of stories.

So, to all our fellow book lovers and challenge takers, we hope you had a fulfilling and enjoyable experience with the Book Riot Read Harder Challenge 2016. We look forward to seeing what you'll read next, and we hope you'll continue to join us in this literary journey.

Until next time, happy reading!

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