"Don't follow the crowd": How to learn to choose books and enjoy reading

Contents:

• How to choose books
• Read or listen to classics?
• Choosing your bookstore

Brief information about the topic.

Boris Kupriyanov is an outstanding Russian publisher and publicist, co-founder of the Phalanster bookstore in Moscow. He is the CEO of the online publication Gorky, widely known for its focus on books and reading. Since 2009, Boris has been a member of the expert council of the International Non/Fiction Book Fair, highlighting his influence on the book community. From 2012 to 2015, he directed the Moscow City Library Center, which helped rethink the role of libraries in the lives of city residents. Boris also speaks on the "How to Choose Books" course, jointly organized by Skillbox and Gorky, sharing his knowledge and experience with literature lovers.

In the interview, Boris shared his thoughts and experiences. He discussed key moments in his career and recounted significant events that influenced his professional development. Boris also emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adapting to changes in the industry, emphasizing that success depends on a willingness to embrace challenges and identify new opportunities. His advice can be useful for those who strive to develop and achieve high results in their field.

• Why you shouldn't rely on reading lists;
• Can the course "How to Choose Books" teach you how to evaluate literature well;
• How to choose the book format that suits you best;
• Why some works become classics;
• What interesting book places are there in the world.

How to Choose Books Correctly

I believe that book lists that are often found online and recommended as must-reads have their pros and cons. On the one hand, such lists can serve as a good guide for those looking for quality literature and want to expand their horizons. They can help discover new genres, authors, and ideas that might otherwise go unnoticed. On the other hand, such lists can create pressure on readers, making them feel obligated to follow certain recommendations, even if those books don't suit their interests or reading style. It's important to remember that reading is an individual process, and each person should choose books based on their own preferences. Therefore, instead of blindly following lists, it's worth using them as a starting point for finding literature that will be truly interesting and useful.

List-making is always a process of generalization. Someone creates a list of books worth reading or places worth visiting. For example, I really like Istanbul, but I have friends who dislike it. If I were to create a list of cities to travel to, Istanbul would definitely be on it. However, when one of my friends gets there, they might be disappointed because they prefer Belgrade. Conversely, there are people who can't stand Belgrade. Therefore, any list represents an average view, not taking into account individual preferences. It's a bit of a compromise, and while it can serve as a useful starting point, it's important to remember that everyone has unique tastes and preferences.

You're being forced into a book list that defines what's "essential," "trendy," and "right." This limits your choices and hinders the reading experience. Every reader is entitled to their own preferences and interests. Don't let others dictate what you should read. Discover the literature that truly interests you and expand your horizons by choosing books based on your personal tastes, not accepted norms.

Don't get hung up on book lists. Read what truly interests you. If you weren't familiar with The Three Musketeers in your youth, it's unlikely you should start reading it after age 40. Instead, choose other books that offer similar insights and experiences but are more suited to your interests. There are plenty of non-fiction books that can enrich your horizons and help you develop essential skills. Remember that reading should be enjoyable and satisfying, not a chore.

When choosing books, I focus on several key factors. First, the topic of the work is important; it should be interesting and relevant. I also pay attention to recommendations from friends and reader reviews, as this helps me understand how popular and in-demand the book is. Authors and their previous works play a significant role in my selection, as well-known writers often offer high-quality content. Genre preferences are equally important, as every reader has their own tastes. Finally, I study annotations and opening chapters to assess the writing style and atmosphere of the work. These criteria help me navigate the diversity of literature and choose truly worthwhile books.

When choosing a book, I pay attention to a number of important aspects. For me, the table of contents and introductory annotation are important, as they allow me to quickly understand the work's topic. Information about where the book was published and who its author is is also of great importance. I often open a book to a random page to assess the writing style and content and see if the text engages me.

There's a criterion Brodsky mentioned in "Gorky." He argued that to determine your interest in a book, open it next to a piece of classic poetry you appreciate. Start reading one page of the chosen book, then switch to the poetry. After 10 minutes, you'll realize what's most important to you at that moment. This method helps reveal your true preferences and level of engagement with a literary work.

If you decide to read the book you've chosen and it sparks your interest, then it's right for you. However, if you find yourself immersed in poetry and don't feel a connection with the text, it might not be your genre. Choosing a book should be enjoyable and inspiring, so it's important to choose works that resonate with your preferences and mood.

You developed a course called "How to Choose Books." Is it really necessary? What are the learning outcomes—will course participants be able to evaluate literary works effectively?

Everyone evaluates books, even if it's expressed simply as "like" or "dislike." Every book sparks interest or, conversely, rejection. In our course, we offer helpful recommendations to help you find books worth reading. We'll talk about how to choose the right literature based on your preferences and interests to make the reading process more engaging and productive.

We'll tell you how to overcome the fear of missing out on important books and not reading some of them. Our goal is to help readers get rid of this barrier and simplify the process of choosing literature. We'll offer effective methods for choosing books that are truly meaningful to you.

In our course, we emphasize the importance of choosing literature without the pressure of fashion and hype. Don't feel ashamed if you haven't read classic works like Anna Karenina. While reading this book can be beneficial, if you're not ready, don't force yourself. There are many other works that can provide you with important knowledge and emotions. The key is to find literature that is relevant and interesting to you.

It's important not to follow the crowd or the mainstream. Uniqueness and individuality are always valued higher than blind imitation. Creating your own path and pursuing your interests allows you to stand out and succeed in any field. Don't be afraid to be different, because that's what makes you special. Remember that true value lies in being yourself, not copying other people's ideas or trends.

If a book is popular but doesn't spark your interest, there's no need to force yourself to finish it. During the course, you will develop your own criteria for choosing literature, which may differ from generally accepted fashion trends. Ultimately, every critic is a reader like you, especially in a time when diversity of opinions and tastes is becoming increasingly important.

Read or listen to the classics?

When choosing a reading format, it is important to consider individual preferences and goals. Paper books offer a tactile experience and can be more comfortable for long reading sessions, allowing you to better focus on the text. E-books are easy to store and have features such as changing fonts and backlighting, making them practical for the modern reader. Audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular due to the ability to listen on the go or while doing other tasks, making them ideal for busy people. Each of these formats has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on personal preference and lifestyle.

All book formats have their advantages, but some works require reading rather than listening. This is due to the unique language play and structure that cannot be fully appreciated in audio format. At the same time, some books are better perceived in electronic format, while others may be difficult or inconvenient to read in this format. The choice between reading and listening depends on the content and style of the book, as well as the reader's personal preferences.

Time and method of reading matter greatly. Whether you read in the morning, before bed, on the go, or purposefully, each of these factors affects the perception of information and the quality of the reading. Morning hours promote better absorption, as the brain is fresh and ready to perceive new information. Reading before bed can help you relax and prepare for a good night's rest, but it is important to choose materials that do not overload the mind. Reading on the go can be convenient, but it requires concentration to avoid missing important points. The choice of time and place for reading plays a key role in how effectively you will absorb information.

Preferences in choosing a reading format depend on individual tastes and convenience. I often read e-books, although I prefer paperbacks. I mostly listen to Russian literature, as I spend a lot of time driving and use this time to absorb works of art—both classics and modern bestsellers. However, there are certain books that I don't appreciate in e-book format and prefer to read in the traditional format. Formats don't compete with each other. Each has its own unique features and is designed to solve specific problems. The variety of formats allows users to choose the most suitable solutions depending on their needs and preferences. It is important to understand that different formats can effectively complement each other, providing a more complete and high-quality interaction with the content. Media formats are only means of transmitting information, while text remains the primary carrier of meaning. Perceiving multilayered and meaningful text in audio or video format can be difficult. Electronic versions of works do not allow for the feeling of physical interaction with the book, such as turning pages and returning to personal notes taken by hand. Text format preserves depth and nuance that may be lost in other formats.

The problem of choosing a format doesn't actually exist; it's more of a fictional situation. The right format depends on specific needs and goals, and its selection should be based on actual requirements, not stereotypes. It's important to consider the context of use and the audience to select the optimal format.

You've raised an interesting topic about books considered relevant today. The question of why some works become classics while others fade from memory remains important. Classic literature often possesses depth, universal themes, and emotional power that can touch generations. These works stand the test of time, remaining relevant and meaningful to readers. At the same time, many books may fail to find their audience or lose popularity due to changing tastes and cultural contexts. Forgotten works may be high-quality, but they fail to resonate with contemporary interests or provide readers with what they are looking for. Thus, the choice of literature that remains in memory depends on a variety of factors, including cultural, social, and personal preferences.

There are many factors that explain why some books remain in readers' memories while others are forgotten. Some of these factors are very specific and difficult to describe. For example, it is possible for a book to fade into obscurity for a while, but then unexpectedly regain attention and become a literary classic. Sometimes famous works are forgotten, only to later regain popularity. There are also cases where a work deserving of recognition is unfairly forgotten.

The book you are looking for may not be trendy, popular, or classic. Personally, I was significantly influenced by Ivan Nazhivin's saga "Rasputin." It is a sprawling family story spanning the pre- and post-revolutionary years, detailing Russian life with a diverse cast of characters. However, unlike famous works such as "Doctor Zhivago" or "The Road to Calvary," this book remains largely unnoticed and forgotten. At the moment of reading, it had a profound impact on me, prompting reflection and action.

Every reader has their favorite books that find them at the right moment. There are many theories about how this process occurs. One popular idea is that a book finds its reader when they immerse themselves in the text and find thoughts and ideas within it that resonate with their personal experience. In my opinion, this phenomenon is really not uncommon and can become an important part of each person’s literary journey.

Choosing your bookstore

Bookstores and publishing houses play a significant role in opening and Rediscovering names for readers. These organizations not only present new and well-known books but also shape literary trends. Thanks to their efforts, readers can become acquainted with the works of authors who might previously have gone unnoticed. The selection of books available in stores, as well as the marketing strategies of publishers, contribute to the popularity of talented writers and the expansion of their readership. It is important to note that it is through these channels that literature finds its readers, and authors find their audience.

Yes, it is true that there is a certain expertise in the publishing industry and bookstores. When you buy books and prefer a particular publisher, you usually understand what exactly it has to offer. For example, knowing the quality of the Bilingua poetry series from Text Publishing House, you are confident in the high quality of translations and poetry. Likewise, the choice of store also plays an important role. By visiting an author's store, which is usually independent, you make an informed choice that aligns with your literary preferences. Understanding the reputation of the publisher and store helps shape your reading experience and satisfaction with your purchase.

At the Falanster store, customers will not find books that do not fit its concept. This includes works that lack cultural or educational value. Our selection does not include mass-market bestsellers focused solely on commercial success, nor does it include literature that promotes violence or hatred. The primary focus is on works that foster critical thinking, broaden horizons, and deepen knowledge. Thus, Falanster offers an alternative to traditional bookstores, creating a space for quality literature and unique authors.

We adhere to certain principles in choosing the selection we offer our readers. For example, we do not carry books on chess. This is not due to a lack of interest in chess, but is the result of historically established preferences. We also carry almost no detective fiction. Our customers are familiar with our selection and know what to expect. This is quite common practice. We also have a limited number of books on esotericism, while there are specialized stores offering a wide selection in this category. We strive to provide our readers with content that meets their expectations and interests.

Readers visit to familiarize themselves with our preferences and, based on this, make purchasing decisions. In St. Petersburg, there is a unique bookstore called "Podpisnye Izdaniya" (Subscription Editions), which operates according to unconventional principles. Despite this, it remains outstanding and is one of my favorite stores. This store operates successfully and attracts customer interest thanks to its original approach.

Phalanster's competitive advantages lie in its unique organizational model, which unites creative people and provides them with opportunities for collaboration. We offer innovative solutions that facilitate the development of individual projects and collective initiatives. Our platform provides access to resources, knowledge, and experience, allowing participants to effectively implement their ideas.

Furthermore, Phalanster creates a comfortable and inspiring environment for creative work, attracting talented professionals. We actively support collaboration, allowing participants to share experiences and expand professional networks.

Thus, Phalanster's competitive advantages lie in a unique ecosystem that fosters the growth and development of both individual and collective projects.

Our competitive advantage lies in our many years of experience in this field. We confidently overcome market challenges. Furthermore, government support is an important factor, facilitating the development of small businesses in difficult conditions. These elements help us remain competitive and conduct business effectively.

In the center of Paris, there are 700 bookstores for a population of three and a half million. In Moscow, with a population of 15 million, there are only 160 bookstores. Many of them don't focus exclusively on selling books. This situation leads to a lack of real competition in the Moscow book market. New bookstores opening in the city become partners rather than competitors, offering a diverse selection of books, unique approaches, and special attention to their customers. This creates opportunities for the development of a cultural space and attracts book lovers.

Your favorite book spot in Russia and the world may be associated with unique libraries, cozy bookstores, or atmospheric cafes where you can enjoy reading. In Russia, it is worth noting places like the Russian State Library, one of the largest in the world, and the famous "Moscow" store on Novy Arbat, which offers a wide selection of books. Outside of Russia, famous bookstores such as Shakespeare and Company in Paris, where literary history is palpable on every corner, and the Strand Bookstore in New York, renowned for its vast selection of new and used books, are of interest. Each of these spaces offers not only books but also a unique atmosphere conducive to literary immersion. Defining what exactly makes a place a bookstore can be difficult. I really like Rue Mouffetard in the Latin Quarter of Paris, which has one bookstore, but the atmosphere of this area is steeped in literature. London's Bloomsbury Square also evokes strong literary associations for me, even though Bloomsbury Publishing PLC is not located there. The square houses the London Review of Books magazine store, which lends a special literary atmosphere to the area. These places inspire and attract book lovers, creating a unique atmosphere for immersing themselves in the world of books. I dream of visiting the picturesque town of Cape Cod, which is associated with the classic work "Moby-Dick." This corner of America captivates with its atmosphere and history, making it an ideal destination for literature lovers. In London, I especially enjoy the Charing Cross area, teeming with bookstores where you can find both modern bestsellers and rare copies. I also love strolling down to the Golden Horn in Istanbul. This area is famous for its many second-hand bookstores and shops where you can find unique items and antiques. The streets are imbued with the spirit of creativity and literary heritage, creating a unique atmosphere. These places inspire and offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of books and stories. Each place is often associated with a specific book, which allows us to speak of its literary identity. However, it is difficult to determine whether a literary work influences the perception of a place or vice versa. For example, Shakespeare did not visit Italy, but when visiting Verona, we associate it with his works. I haven't personally been to Dublin, but I know that James Joyce wrote much of Ulysses in Trieste, where I have been. Nevertheless, for me, Dublin remains the city of Ulysses—it's the place that makes me want to visit. Literature and place are thus intertwined, forming unique associations and impressions that shape our perception of the world. Some of the most memorable bookish places are Peski and Nevsky Prospect in St. Petersburg. These locations evoke associations with a scene from Andrei Bely's novel Petersburg, in which one of the characters drives along Nevsky Prospect and reflects on the inhabitants of Vasilievsky Island. Also worth noting is Pyotr Vail's Genius Loci, in which the author deeply analyzes the connections between place and literature. These works highlight the unique atmosphere of St. Petersburg and its influence on the work of writers. There are books that you want to reread again and again. These works leave a deep imprint on the soul and spark interest every time you open them. Regardless of genre, such books have the power to immerse the reader in a familiar world, awakening memories and new emotions. Rereading favorite books helps you better understand their content and spot details that might have been missed the first time. This is not only a pleasure, but also an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and perception. Each new reading reveals unique aspects and allows you to look at the plot from a new perspective. Reading such books is an essential element of the literary experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the story.

I can immerse myself in books I read as a child for a long time. For example, I can reread Hadji Murat for six months. I read it almost every day, several pages at a time. I have tried different formats, including audio, although perceiving the text in this format can be difficult. I am currently rereading Leskov's Nowhere, which I have returned to several times. These works have profound meaning and leave an indelible mark on my consciousness.

Currently, I am reading a book that really captivates me. This genre of literature helps me broaden my horizons and delve into new ideas. Reading not only enriches my knowledge but also develops critical thinking. I'm curious about what books other readers choose and what topics resonate with them. What works inspire you?

I read one or two books daily. In fiction, I recently enjoyed re-reading Boris Pasternak's "Safe Conduct." As for contemporary works, Vladimir Sorokin's "Doctor Garin" caught my eye. These books are not only interesting but also deepen my understanding of literary traditions and contemporary trends. Reading such works promotes the development of critical thinking and broadens horizons.