In a previous post, I mentioned the book challenge I am doing for 2026. I’ve finished the first book and will soon post a review. Before I do that, I thought I might take a minute to explain my book rating systems.

Many people choose complicated systems evaluating plot, characterization, setting, and more, but I read for enjoyment now (I’ve finished evaluating books like an ELA teacher). My systems are pretty simple.

Each book gets a “how much Bonnie liked it” rating – 1-5 

There’s no real criteria. I go with my gut here.

• DNF – did not finish – this could happen for various reasons including disliked the book, not in the right head space, ran out of time, etc.
• 1 star – didn’t like it
• 2 stars – it was OK
• 3 stars – liked it
• 4 stars – really liked it
• 5 stars – it was amazing; these are the only books I will ever consider re-reading

Each book gets a “spiciness” rating from 0-5 (inspired/adapted from the peanut blossom book club)

Spice in a book is okay, for me,  if it’s not overdone. However, when suggesting books to young people, I am very careful. I am making these notes to remind me when I am asked.

• 0 jalapenos – zero spiciness; nothing more than what might happen on my parents’ front porch
• 1 jalapeno – fade to black; the author cuts away from the action and descriptions of the specific moments
• 2 jalapenos – closed door or open door with lights on; still fades to black but there may be some warming up before the lights fade or the door is open but the references to what’s happening are vaguely described
• 3 jalapenos – gentle open door; things are happening but any descriptions are tasteful, not graphic
• 4 jalapenos – open door and bright lights; scenes that detail the intimacy between romantic partners with vivid descriptions that last across several pages if not whole chapters; everything is consensual
• 5 jalapenos – no door and all the lights; this is not a likely read for me; all spice all the time; the language is graphic, detailed, and purposely electrifying; content warnings may be involved and sensitive readers should proceed with caution

When Needed I will give a horror/terror rating from 0-5 

I absolutely hate balloons. I especially hate red balloons in storm drains. IYKYK

Graphic horror novels and psychological thrillers are not my go to, but on occasion, I am persuaded to read something because I am told the story is worth it. Sometimes I read non-fiction that tells the story of some awful event that should not be forgotten. So, I’ve got this system for that.

• Most of my books will be zero balloons; although, they may contain adult language; they will have no violence.
• 1 red balloon – violence is part of the plot but there are no gory details
• 2 red balloons – violence could be fairly detailed, with some blood and guts or some harshness
• 3 red balloons – gory details, non-consensual events, vulgar content

I’m so excited to read this year. I have so many books from my TBR in the plan!