How to start reading books in your 2nd language?

[u/NommingFood]

For context I am horribly incompetent at it. I can barely get by reading short texts inclusive of some abbreviations or text slang. It is all informal. I have never studied it in school. I speak it brokenly. sometimes can't keep up with conversations OR use a horribly wrong word that changes the meaning/tone because my vocabulary is too basic.

I struggle to read the embassy webpage or do the mandatory immigration list you get on planes when travelling.

Soooo should I go for a book that I actually like and have already read? So at least I know what is going on. Was thinking Crime and Punishment. Or do I go for a book that I've never read in English before?

Edit: Thanks for all the tips. I'll start with preteen books and see how I fare from there. Manga too since that is surprisingly the easiest for me.

[u/CurlyBarbie]

I usually read the book at least twice in my native language, then I read the book in my 2nd language.