Bookster: In 2023, the most searched books were about physical and mental health

The year 2023 was a time of introspection and care for mental and emotional health, promoting a conscious life balance. Increased interest in mindfulness, physical activity and healthy eating characterised the last period.

This shift in perspective is evident among employees in companies that offer access to the Bookster platform. During 2023, they expressed an appreciation for books that explore topics related to mental well-being, focusing on preventing burnout and maintaining physical health. There was also increased interest in articles that addressed topics such as healthily losing weightand the need for vitamins.

“When the Body Says No” by Gabor Maté – the most borrowed book through Bookster for the second year in a row. Just like last year, topping the list of personal development-focused reads, with a focus on understanding emotions and burnout, is Gabor Maté’s book “When the Body Says No”. After a remarkable medical career in which he has deeply investigated the connections between stress and medical conditions, Gabor Maté explores the close links between mind and body, highlighting how chronic stress and traumatic experiences can affect our physical and mental health. Through his patient stories and clinical research, the author demonstrates how constant stress and external pressures can trigger conditions such as burnout and depression or autoimmune diseases. Maté emphasizes the importance of understanding and recognizing the factors that lead to burnout to better address and manage everyday stress.

Raluca Anton, is among Bookster’s favourite Romanian authors. In 2023, interest in books written by Romanian authors increased slightly, offering readers the opportunity to explore and connect with themes, situations and cultural aspects specific to Romania. Doctor of Psychology Raluca Anton tops the podium of Romanian authors, her book “1 to 1 Therapy with Your Self” being the most borrowed by booksters in this category. The author explores the subject of individual therapy and self-development, offering a practical perspective on how people can better manage their emotions, understand their behaviours and improve their relationships. The book addresses effective communication, conflict management, building self-confidence and developing mental and emotional well-being.

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Statistics after 10 years of Bookster: each subscriber read an average of 12 books per year

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Alongside Raluca Anton, the top of 2023 includes both favourite authors of 2022, such as Andreea Săvulescu, Gáspár György and Ioana Pârvulescu, as well as new names such as Mircea Sântimbreanu or Dr. Mihela Bilic.

• “1 to 1 therapy with yourself” by Raluca Anton

Romance and mystery novels continue to be a favourite among literature lovers

Romance and mystery titles are at the top of the choices of romance fans, with this trend continuing from 2021. At the same time, there is a growing trend for literary works that depict diverse cultures and civilizations, with Bookster subscribers paying particular attention to accounts of women’s experiences captured in oppressive regimes outside the European context. Also, as in the previous year, the context of World War II retains a high level of relevance among members of the Bookster community, who are motivated by a desire to understand the events that influenced the politics, economics, culture, and intimate perspectives of the war as told by people contemporary with this period of history.

In terms of non-fiction authors, Kristin Hannah and Fredrik Backman continue to be ranked at the top, along with Colleen Hoover and Alex Michaelides.

In 2023, interest in manga and comics graphic novels is up 20% from last year, with the most popular titles being Yamazaki Kore’s Bride of the Ancient Mag and Doug TenNapel’s Carton.

In terms of professional development, preferences remained constant in 2023: IT readings continue to be in high demand, along with educational resources on finance, investing and coaching.

Recreational activities were also a topic of interest on the Bookster platform, especially during the summer. Booksters were curious to read about holiday destinations and preparation for them and chose to read about mountain trails or ideas for activities with children.

Reading, a popular habit in Romanian companies

Bookster aims for all of this year’s development directions to support the brand promise – to make reading a beloved habit in Romania, so that the reading break becomes a daily habit in the lives of people and their families.

“The most important thing for us is to connect subscribers with their favourite books. In the coming period, we want to develop smaller reading collections, including audio, that can be easily slipped in during a break or on the way to the office. In addition, we’re working on many projects that we’re excited about. This year we’re launching the Bookster app – thousands of cool reads in your pocket.  As always, we aim to diversify the content available through the platform, both in terms of reading categories and the formats and languages in which they are offered. Last but not least, we are constantly developing the algorithm for personalized reading recommendations and testing profiling tools that will more easily identify the most suitable books for each subscriber based on their reading history” – says Teodora Rădulescu, Bookster CEO.

Predictions for 2024

“How Long Lemons Bloom” by Zoulfa Katouh and “The Glucose Revolution” by Jessie Inchauspé are among Bookster’s predictions for staying popular in 2024. In addition to these appealing titles, there is growing interest in readings focused on the art of office communication. Readers want to explore the secrets of effective dialogue not only with colleagues but also with their superiors or subordinates.

Currently, Bookster provides its subscribers with approximately 5,000 unique book titles and 3,500 online resources – articles, ebooks, videos and audio content.