There’s something satisfying about a reading goal. One book leads to another, and before long, you’ve travelled through entirely different worlds without leaving your favourite chair.
The Okanagan Regional Library is introducing a new Reading Challenge designed with that feeling in mind. Built around a curated collection of standout titles, this challenge brings together staff favourites and memorable reads across genres, offering a thoughtful mix of stories to explore at your own pace.
Whether you’re revisiting classics like Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery or stepping into something more unexpected like Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree, the list is designed to surprise, comfort, and occasionally nudge you somewhere new. You might find yourself wandering through the philosophical corridors of The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, or swept into the emotional depth of Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver.
There’s no single way to approach the challenge. You can follow the list in order, jump between genres, or pick titles based on your mood. The goal is simple: read what interests you and see where it leads.
Participation is flexible, too. You can track your progress online or use a paper tracker from your local branch if you prefer something a little more tactile. Each completed reading list earns a small, creative reward—a 3D-printed miniature bookshelf that fills up with books as you complete the lists. Finish all four lists, and you’ll have a full display, along with a miniature trophy to mark the achievement. It’s a playful nod to a quiet accomplishment.
If you’re looking for a place to start, our most recent list, Our New Favourites, includes a wide range of voices and styles. You might dip into the speculative calm of Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel, the historical richness of The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese, or the gripping storytelling of None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. There’s room here for reflection, escape, and everything in between.
The Reading Challenge – Our New Favourites is open to adults across the ORL service area, and it’s designed to meet you where you are as a reader. Whether you’re someone who always has a book on the go or someone rediscovering the habit, this is an invitation to explore without pressure.
Ready to begin? Browse The Reading Challenge – Our New Favourites and view previous lists.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127 or email help@orl.bc.ca. Please include as many details as you can about your question, account, or device. This helps us support you more quickly and accurately.
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