In 2013 I read 51 books. That added up to 11,668 pages. Dedicated readers may scoff at that number, but that’s the most I have ever read in a year. The number wasn’t hit because of any New-Year-Eve self-improvement guilt, or anything like that. I just sort of fell into it.

On one hand, I moved far away from my job and spent a lot of time commuting on the subway. On the other hand, my smart phone could have easily taken over my entire life. Yes, I love reading, but I also love Arrested Development marathons, so it could have really gone either way. However, my numbers show that I am reading more, and I think that’s because of Goodreads and social networking about books. Introverts, I can hear you growling, swearing to never use Goodreads. But hey, hear me out:

1. Goodreads has both social and asocial tools! You can use Goodreads every day and never have to talk to anyone

2. The social-interaction is akin to ‘Bring a Book to School’ day. It is two readers next to each other, purring in rhythm.

My addiction to Goodreads is also professional. I am digital marketer who works in traditional publishing, and I am also a writer. And though I am not self-published (yet?), I have two words for those who are: Goodreads STAT.

So basically, I really like Goodreads. I use it for business and pleasure and this guide will talk about both of these perspectives.

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