I joined Goodreads as a digital way to keep track of the books I read. Over time, it has grown to a community where I chat with like-minded bibliophiles who love books, words, and anything related. Here are some of the activities I pursue on Goodreads:
Chat with those who read the same book
There are lots of ways to connect with like-minded readers, starting with Discussion Groups. I get a lot of feedback from Goodreads’ members on reviews I post which I always follow up on. If it sounds like we have similar interests, I reach out, say hi, comment on their reviews or book choices.
Get recommendations in my genre
Most authors I like only write a book a year so I’m always looking for new writers. Goodreads is a great place to find those.
Add and read reviews
Before I read a book, I check out what Goodreads members are saying about it. Then, when I’m finished, I share my review and always enjoy the feedback I get from others.
Connect with authors I like
Goodreads’ authors are amazingly accessible. Often, when I review one of their books, they drop in on my Goodreads’ stream or my blog to say thank you or chat. Who would think? When I become famous, I’ll do the same.
Receive free preview copies by great authors
Lots of authors offer free books on Goodreads through promotional giveaways. Truth, I have never won one of these, but lots of others have because I see their comments all the time. These are both Indie authors and NYT best sellers. So, I keep applying (and getting turned down).
Promote my books
Goodreads offers a variety of ways to promote your books such as giveaways, free sample chapters, and Ask the Author. I haven’t taken advantage of these yet. Anyone have experience with this sort of advertising? Results?
Enter competitions
Every year, I try to predict how many books I’ll read the upcoming year. Goodreads has a widget that will track my progress. I can stick it in my blog’s sidebar so visitors can check how I’m doing. Here’s an image of how I did this year:
I can’t believe how many people participated this year and all the books they read:
How about you–do you use Goodreads? If so, let’s link up!
More about the love of reading:
Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman
Today's Author 
Jacqui, you’ve written a terrific post about why Goodreads is an effective communication tool for writers and readers. Occasionally I consider reviews on a book I might read. You’ve given me pause to think about the site as a writer.
It took me a while to get there, too. It’s nice being in a virtual room where the topic everyone wants to discuss is books. Sigh.
I have a Goodreads account. Don’t use it as much as I should. I haven’t look into the stuff an author can do on the platform, but this might be the year I do that.
It’s definitely something to consider when your poetry book is ready.
I have a Goodreads account and simply don’t use it. I haven’t really found a purpose for it…but this article sure has given me things to think about with it. Thanks!
I started using it simply to keep track of what books I’ve read. I keep losing track and found myself buying books I’d already read. Goodreads fixed that problem.
Thanks you so much for your fabulous review of Wolf Pear, Jacqui! WOW! You’ve made my year xxxx
Dianne, I had no idea you were such a wonderful writer. I thoroughly enjoyed that book.
Wow – that is a wonderful compliment Jacqui. Thank you xxx
I just discovered Goodreads recently and really enjoy it. It’s very useful! Thanks for the good words about goodreads! 🙂 happyfamilylifeblog.wordpress.com
http://www.revfred.com
It’s a great collection of readerly materials. I find lots of good books there.