In the past years, numerous people have asked me why I read so much and why I think reading is this important. For years, I have given more or less the same reply, saying that reading expands your world. I think it gives you the opportunity to see something of the world, to broaden your view, and to learn something about a different culture, without physically having to travel. 

In 2024, I did some reflecting on what I was actually reading. I realised I have only ever read one book by a South American author. That I could not think of more than 5 books by African authors. Ouch. So it is time for a change and I have decided to turn it into a challenge, so I can hopefully help other people to diversify their reading. Are you joining me too? 

The idea is pretty simple: I have selected 22 countries for this year, and for each country I will read one book, by an author from that country. Once I have read it, I cross the country of my list and continue to do so for a year or until I finish the list. If you want to take a crack at this challenge, all you have it do is pick a book by an author of one of the countries on the list and start reading. You can join me and try to do all 22, or selected a few based on your interests or just at random.