How Our Book Recommendations Work
Like Having a Librarian in Your Pocket
Remember walking into your favorite bookstore and having the clerk ask, "What kind of mood are you in today?" That's exactly what we've recreated here—but available 24/7, wherever you are.
Our Simple 3-Step Process
1. Tell Us How You're Feeling
Instead of asking what you've read before or which authors you like, we start with what matters most: how you're feeling right now. Are you looking for something cozy and comforting? Need an escape into adventure? Want something that'll make you think without being too heavy?
We ask about:
- Your current mood and what you're seeking
- How much time you have to read
- Whether you want something light or more challenging
- The general type of story that appeals to you today
2. We Match Books to Your Mood
Our recommendation process combines the expertise of experienced librarians with a carefully curated database of books. We don't use algorithms trained on purchase history or what's trending on social media.
Instead, we focus on:
- Emotional resonance - How will this book make you feel?
- Reading experience - Does the pacing match your available time?
- Complexity level - Will this challenge you the right amount for today?
- Mood alignment - Does this book deliver the emotional experience you're seeking?
3. Discover Your Next Great Read
We present you with 3 carefully chosen recommendations—not an overwhelming list of dozens. Each comes with:
- A clear explanation of why we picked it for you
- What kind of mood and reading experience to expect
- Easy purchasing options that support independent bookstores
What Makes Us Different
We don't need to know your reading history.
You don't have to log past books or rate hundreds of titles. We focus on who you are today and what you need from a book right now.
We're not influenced by sales or trends.
Our recommendations aren't based on what's being promoted or what's popular. We choose books because they match your specific mood and preferences.
We support independent bookstores.
Every purchase link helps support local, independent bookstores through our partnership with Bookshop.org.
We keep it simple.
No complicated profiles, no endless questionnaires. Just a friendly conversation about what you're in the mood to read.
After You Get Your Recommendations
Love what we picked? You can purchase directly through our Bookshop.org links to support independent bookstores.
Want something different? Click "Get More Recommendations" and we'll find new options based on your preferences.
Found the perfect match? Consider tipping your digital librarian to help us keep this service free for everyone.
Questions About Our Process?
Do you accept payment from publishers?
No. We never accept payment for book placements or let commercial relationships influence our recommendations.
How do you choose which books to include?
We curate our database based on literary quality, reader satisfaction, and emotional impact—not sales numbers or marketing budgets.
What if I don't like a recommendation?
That helps us learn! Use our feedback option to let us know what didn't work, and we'll refine future recommendations.
Can I request specific genres or topics?
Absolutely. Our mood-based approach works within any genre or subject area you're interested in.