Every book lover has been there: a dreaded reading slump. No matter how much you love reading, there are times when you just can’t seem to get through a book, or even pick one up. The pages feel heavy, and your usual enthusiasm for escaping into fictional worlds or learning new things just isn’t there. If you’re stuck in a reading rut, don’t worry—reading slumps are normal, and there are plenty of ways to overcome them! In this post, we’ll explore some helpful tips to get you back to enjoying your reading life.
1. Pick a Short, Fast-Paced Book
When you’re in a reading slump, diving into a dense, 600-page epic might feel overwhelming. Instead, opt for something short and fast-paced. A book that’s quick to read with a gripping storyline can help you regain your reading momentum. Consider thrillers, novellas, or even middle-grade fiction—books that move fast and don’t require a huge time investment.
Try This:
- The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
- Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
- The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
These shorter books can be finished in a day or two, which will give you a sense of accomplishment and help you break the cycle of not reading.
2. Revisit an Old Favorite
Sometimes the best way to fall back in love with reading is to revisit a book you already love. Going back to a favorite story can reignite your passion for reading because it offers comfort and familiarity. Plus, there’s no pressure—since you’ve already read it, you don’t need to worry about the plot or characters, and you can focus on enjoying the experience.
Try This:
Think of a book that gave you joy the first time you read it. Whether it’s Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice, or The Hunger Games, choose a book that brings back those warm, fuzzy reading memories.
3. Change Formats: Try Audiobooks
If reading physical or digital books feels like too much effort, why not try audiobooks? Audiobooks are a fantastic way to consume stories while doing other things like cooking, commuting, or exercising. They allow you to keep up with your reading goals without feeling the pressure of sitting down with a book. Plus, a great narrator can add new dimensions to a story, making it even more engaging.
Try This:
- Listen to a book you’ve always wanted to read but couldn’t get into. The audiobook version of classics like Jane Eyre or Moby-Dick can be a completely different experience than reading the physical book.
- Or try something light and entertaining, like The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion or Bossypants by Tina Fey.
4. Switch Genres
Reading slumps can often come from burnout, especially if you’ve been reading a lot of books from the same genre. Sometimes, the best way to shake things up is to dive into a completely different genre. If you’ve been reading a lot of heavy fantasy or literary fiction, try switching to something light and fun, like contemporary romance or a breezy mystery. Exploring different types of books can reignite your curiosity and pull you back into the world of reading.
Try This:
- If you’re a fan of fantasy, try switching to a mystery thriller like The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.
- If you’ve been reading contemporary fiction, try dipping into historical romance like The Duke and I by Julia Quinn (the inspiration for Bridgerton).
5. Set Small, Achievable Goals
If you’re struggling to finish a book, it can be helpful to break your reading into small, manageable chunks. Instead of trying to read 50 or 100 pages in one sitting, set a goal to read for just 10 minutes or finish one chapter. By focusing on small, incremental progress, you’ll gradually work your way through the book without feeling overwhelmed.
Try This:
- Use a timer and read for just 15-20 minutes a day. Sometimes, once you get into the groove, you’ll naturally want to read more.
- Make a habit of reading right before bed or while having your morning coffee. Turning reading into a small daily ritual can help bring back the joy.
6. Read Something Light and Fun
When reading feels like a chore, the last thing you need is a book that demands too much emotional or intellectual energy. Instead, pick something lighthearted, humorous, or full of adventure. These kinds of books are easy to breeze through and often don’t require as much concentration. They’re just plain fun—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need to shake off a slump.
Try This:
- Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston for a funny, heartfelt romance.
- Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett for a humorous take on the apocalypse.
- The Princess Bride by William Goldman for a classic adventure filled with humor and heart.
7. Join a Reading Community or Buddy Read
Sometimes, the best way to get out of a slump is to share the experience with others. Join a book club or an online reading community to discuss books with like-minded people. Knowing that others are reading the same book as you can provide motivation to pick up your book again. A buddy read with a friend is also a great way to keep yourself accountable while making reading a fun, shared experience.
Try This:
- Look for reading communities on Instagram, Goodreads, or Facebook.
- Start a buddy read with a friend where you both choose a book and discuss it at regular intervals.
8. Switch to Short Stories or Anthologies
If the idea of committing to a full-length novel feels daunting, why not try short stories or anthologies? These shorter works offer satisfying narratives that can be read in one sitting, giving you a sense of accomplishment without the pressure of a long, drawn-out book. Anthologies also introduce you to multiple authors and styles, which can be a fun way to reignite your love for reading.
Try This:
- Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado
- The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken Liu
- The Best American Short Stories collections
9. Take a Break—and Don’t Feel Guilty
Sometimes the best way to get out of a reading slump is to take a break from reading altogether. It’s okay to step away from books for a while and let your brain relax. Engaging in other creative activities like watching movies, painting, journaling, or even just spending time outdoors can recharge your mental energy. When you’re ready, you’ll naturally feel the urge to return to reading. Remember, it’s important not to feel guilty—reading should be a pleasure, not an obligation.
Conclusion
Reading slumps happen to everyone, but they don’t have to last forever. Whether you choose to pick up a light-hearted novel, try a new genre, or switch formats, there are plenty of ways to reignite your love for books. The most important thing is to be patient with yourself—reading slumps are normal, and with time and the right approach, you’ll find your way back to those pages.
Leave a Reply