By Naomi
We’ve all been there: happily reading, devouring books left and right, until one day, uh-oh! You don’t really feel like reading anymore. Maybe you are a mood reader, and nothing is just right. Maybe your last book was so great, you don’t know if anything will live up to it (book hangovers are very real). Or maybe your last book was so terrible you don’t know if you ever want to read again. But you’re a Booklover, so of course you want to keep going! Only how do you get out of this reading slump?
1. Reread your favorite book:
It might help to read a book you know you love and will enjoy reading. Diving into a familiar world can be very comforting. You know what will happen and how the story will progress, which can give your brain a nice rest.
2. Read a novella or a short story
If you don’t feel like you can commit to a full-length novel, try a novella, a short story or maybe even some poetry! Shorter books are obviously less of a commitment and even reading just a little bit might kick-start your system into wanting to read more. For some inspiration, take a look at this highlight list of Science Fiction/ Fantasy novellas we love.
Bonus tip: a graphic novel, comic or manga might also work!
3. Read something completely different
You can pick up a book that’s completely out of your comfort zone. If you’re a die-hard Crime Fiction reader, try some Literary Fiction. If you’re burnt out on Romantasy, try a light RomCom. If you’ve had enough of Dark Fantasy, go for a Middle Grade novel. Going (far) outside your comfort zone might shock your system into either wanting to go back to what you usually read, or discovering a new genre you enjoy!
4. Don’t fight with yourself
If you really can’t pick up a new book or stick with something past the first chapter, maybe you just need a little break. And that’s okay! It is a little sad when reading is your relaxation of choice, but above all it is supposed to be fun. If trying to get back into reading is stressing you out more than it relaxes you, you might need to switch it up a bit. You can watch a movie or tv show (based on a book, if you can’t completely let go; check out our blogposts on book-to-screen adaptations). You could play a game or listen to a podcast.
If you’re ever in need of a recommendation to help you through a reading slump, come by one of our stores! We’ve all been there, and we might have just the thing to help you out.
Cover image: Young Decadent by Ramón Casas
