Reading Challenge 2024

main image for Reading Challenge page

This year, Toronto Public Library invites you to read widely and discover new books, authors and genres. Read or listen to 12 books in 12 categories from January to December to complete the 2024 Reading Challenge.

cover of the Reading Challenge form

Reading Challenge Form

Download the fillable, printable Reading Challenge form (PDF), or view the categories below.

Download the Form

How to participate

  1. Read widely. Try books you wouldn’t normally read, in any format you like, and interpret the categories as broadly as you’d like.
  2. Track your reading.
  3. Connect with other readers. Join the discussion on Facebook or attend a Reading Challenge event.
  4. Win prizes. Complete the online survey (available in September) and share your booklist to be entered into a random draw for a prize pack.

The Challenge

Read or listen to 12 books in 12 categories in 12 months.

We'll be posting recommendations for each category over the course of the year in the order they're listed here:

Categories

The Advanced Challenge

Up for more? Read or listen to 14 more books to complete the Advanced Challenge.

Join the Facebook group

Share reading recommendations with fellow readers.

Upcoming programs

All Reading Challenge Events

Rules

Prize draw rules

The draw is open to all individuals who have completed the 2024 Reading Challenge and have a valid TPL card or Digital Access Card. Complete the online survey form (available in September) by 11:59 pm EST on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 to enter. Limit of one entry per person. On Thursday, January 2, 2025, three individuals will be randomly selected to win a prize pack of books and library merchandise. A fourth winner will be drawn from those who have completed both the 2024 Reading Challenge and Advanced Challenge. Prize packs will be available for pickup at the winner's choice of TPL branch. Winners will be required to answer a skill-testing question to claim their prize.

FAQ

Who can participate in the Challenge and prize draw?

The Challenge is for anyone who is interested in reading more.

To be eligible for the prize draw, you will need to have a valid Toronto Public Library card or Digital Access Card and complete the Challenge (don't have a card yet? Here's how to get one). Those who complete the Advanced Challenge as well will be eligible for an additional draw.

You don't need to participate in the online discussion to be eligible for the prize draw. To enter the prize draw, fill out the online survey (available in September).

Do I have to read books from the library?

You can buy, borrow from friends, read from the library, raid your personal collection… any source of books is fair game.

Do I have to read books in English? Can I read books in French?
You can read books in any language, not just English or French.
How should I track the books I'm reading?
There are several ways you can keep track of what you've read:
I prefer audiobooks. Do those count?
Absolutely. If you prefer your books in audio, you're welcome to listen to books for the Challenge too.
I read a book that can fit into two of the categories on the Challenge. Can I use it for both?
Nice try, but each book can only be used for a single Challenge category.
My child is interested in the Challenge. Can they participate?
The Challenge is generally aimed at adults, but children and teens are welcome. They will also be able to enter the prize draw in 2024.
Where can I find recommendations for books to read?
Recommendations will be posted on this page throughout the year. You can also ask other readers for recommendations in the Facebook group.

Past Reading Challenges

Want to take the Challenge from previous years? Download the forms or browse our recommended reading lists.