Reading is a much more exciting journey than many people think. When a new habit enters a person’s life, it can greatly influence their way of thinking, daily rhythm, and outlook on the world. But the biggest challenge most beginners face is the question — where to start? With thousands of books available, choosing the right one can sometimes feel overwhelming. The first books matter a lot: they can ignite a love for reading, or, if chosen poorly, they can reduce motivation.
A well-structured first reading list, however, makes this process easier and more enjoyable. The main goal is to help the reader find their own rhythm and form a natural, comfortable connection with books.
The first criterion for beginners when choosing a book is the topic. A reader should identify what they are genuinely interested in: adventure, psychology, detective stories, fantasy, self-development, life stories — the list is long. Selecting beginner-friendly books that match these interests strengthens motivation. For example, someone who enjoys adventure will find fast-paced stories more suitable, as they pull the reader into the plot quickly and keep the rhythm steady.
In the initial stage, it’s especially helpful to choose books written in simple language, with a clear storyline and an easy-to-follow structure. Such books help new readers stay focused without getting overwhelmed and maintain a stable reading pace. In addition, books that are not too long are ideal at the beginning — short and medium-length reads create a sense of accomplishment and motivate the reader to pick up the next one.
One of the most important points is genre balance. A first reading list shouldn’t consist of only one type of book. Starting with intense detective novels is not always the best choice, nor is choosing a heavy philosophical text as the very first book. When the list includes both engaging fiction and easy-to-read nonfiction, the reader is exposed to variety and can discover which genres suit them best.
Another factor influencing book selection is language level. Choosing authors who write in a clear, straightforward style brings comfort to beginners. Moreover, many global bestsellers often have strong storylines that keep readers engaged — making them a good fit for those just starting out.
The best part of beginning to read is that personal taste develops over time. The first reading list is just the starting point, but as the process continues, readers naturally discover the authors, genres, and themes that feel right for them. Every completed book is a step forward, and every page read is a new experience.
At Ali & Nino bookstores, there are special sections, recommended lists, and a wide selection prepared specifically for beginners. For anyone who feels unsure about choosing their first book, this place is both an inspiration and a gateway to a new world.
Remember: a reading habit doesn’t form in a single day, but it always starts with a single book — and the right book can sometimes change an entire life.