Why This Book Lover Joined Book of the Month
Despite having a TBR list that could probably be seen from space if it was physically manifested, and scoping out new additions to said list every week via a wander of the bookstore, joining Book of the Month has been one of my better book-related decisions this year. And it’s really hard to pick just one book subscription box.
What is Book of the Month?
Book of the Month, or BOTM, is a monthly book subscription box company that curates five new books to be revealed at the start of every month, spanning thriller, romance, literary fiction, contemporary fiction and other genres. You can pick one (or more) or skip if nothing grabs you, and they ship it to the door.
No candles, accessories or mystery items (not that there’s anything wrong with such whimsy in other book boxes).
BOTM has been providing reads since 1926, which is wild. We’re talking a century-old book club that has managed to stay relevant by scouting and selecting early releases, debut authors and future mainstream favourites.
The Canadian Book Box Dilemma
I can already hear some responses about supporting Canadian book boxes (which I try, when possible).
The thing about book boxes in Canada is that they’re either expensive because shipping in Canada costs an arm and a leg (not the company’s fault, Canada Post and the like are what they are), or they’re padded with extras that can drive up the price.
Don’t get me wrong, I love cute bookmarks, themed candles and specially selected snacks as much as the next person. But sometimes, I just want the book; my condo doesn’t need another random decorative object and my cats have already claimed any space that’s not going to books, puzzles or my own snacks.
Book of the Month may ship from the states but the shipping is included in your membership, a price which is still cheaper than buying a new release at full price in a book store in Canada.
Why Book of the Month Works for My Book Brain
Between wishing I had won the lottery every time I visit the book store and scrolling BookTok or Bookstagram and adding so many recommended titles to my list, I get decision fatigue by the time I’m ready to actually PICK ONE.
BOTM gives me five options, five. I can pick one, or I can skip. Plus, the selections are historically SO good, focusing heavily on:
- Debut authors who are bringing fresh voices and perspectives
- Early releases that won’t hit shelves for a few weeks
- BOTM exclusives with special editions or early access
- Highly anticipated releases across multiple genres
Once you’ve chosen your main pick, you can add additional books at a discounted rate. These can be current selections, previous months’ picks, most loved releases, among other categories.
I love this because if I’m waffling between two books, I can just grab both. Or if I skipped a month and then saw everyone raving about that pick, I can grab it later.
After five boxes, you can vote on The Lolly (their reader’s choice award) and add up to five books per box. After twelve boxes, you get a free birthday book credit, a tote bag, and one free Lolly book per year.
BOTM has been available to Canadians for about a year or two now, and honestly, it’s filled a gap I didn’t realize existed. We don’t always get the same book access as our American neighbours, and while I love supporting Canadian authors and bookstores (and still do!), having another avenue for discovering new reads has been genuinely great.
If you’re curious, your first box is $14.99 using my referral link, and you can skip or cancel anytime. No pressure, no commitment, just five books, one choice, and a lot less decision fatigue.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go stress about this month’s selections. In the best way possible.
