Bookish Prompt Power: How to Ask AI for Reads You’ll Actually Love
Whether you’re asking AI for book recommendations, story ideas, or help with research, the quality of your output depends on the quality of your prompt. A vague prompt gives vague results; a specific, detailed prompt gives tailored, useful answers.
Here’s how to write prompts that actually work.
1. Start with Context
Before asking your question, give the AI the background it needs to “understand” your perspective.
- Who you are (reader, teacher, business owner, etc.)
- Your goal or what you’re trying to achieve
- Any relevant background details
Example:
❌ “Recommend a book.”
✅ “I’m a fantasy reader who loves strong female leads, rich world-building, and a slow-burn romance. Recommend books that fit this style.”
2. Be Specific About Requirements
Spell out exactly what you want the AI to include or avoid.
- Desired tone (funny, formal, friendly)
- Formats (list, table, step-by-step)
- Content boundaries (spice level, language restrictions, no spoilers, etc.)
Example:
❌ “Tell me about Romantasy books.”
✅ “List 5 Romantasy books with Level 1 spice, each with a title, author, 2-sentence synopsis, and reason why I might love it.”
3. Structure Your Request
AI works best when given a clear, ordered framework to follow. Use numbers or bullet points to make it easy to deliver exactly what you want.
Example:
“For each recommendation, give me:
- Title & Author
- Short synopsis (2–3 sentences)
- Why you think I’d love it
- Spice rating and note on content”
4. Add Style or Persona
If you want a certain vibe, say so! You can tell the AI to “pretend” to be a character or a certain type of expert.
Example:
“Act as a witty bookshop owner who’s been running the store for 30 years. Recommend books like you’re talking to your favorite customer.”
5. Test and Refine
Your first prompt might not be perfect—and that’s okay. Review the output, then tweak your instructions to get closer to what you want.
- Add more constraints if it’s too broad
- Remove overly limiting details if it’s too narrow
- Reorder steps if the structure feels off
Quick Prompt Formula
Here’s a plug-and-play formula you can use:
[Role or persona] + [Goal or task] + [Details or requirements] + [Structure or format] + [Tone or style]
Example:
“You are a seasoned fantasy librarian. Recommend 5 books for someone who loves magical worlds, found family, and low spice romance. Give each in a list with title, author, 2-sentence synopsis, and why I’d love it. Keep the tone warm and conversational.”
