Taking notes can help engage with the book and focus on thoughts at hand. It also helps remembering the new knowledge and linking to existing knowledge. Write down your opinion when there is disagreement. Ask questions when a point is unclear.

In Learning Theory, this method is called elaborative rehearsal, which means associating new information with existing knowledge. The more you elaborate and link, the more likely you'll remember the new information for long-term.

Consider whether a book is worth your time before open it. Think twice before starting and commit until the end when you start reading.

Seek reference from book list of smart minds, e.g. Obama and Bill's recommendations. Use listing apps to store a want-to-read list e.g. Google Keep or Goodreads.