Do you remember the last time you spent time reading books for pleasure?  If it’s been a while, don’t worry – you’re not alone.  In fact, according to a report by the National Endowment for the Arts, reading for pleasure has been on the decline in America since 1982.  But that doesn’t mean reading books is a thing of the past!  On the contrary, there are plenty of ways to get back into reading, and in this article, you will find ten practical tips to help you fall in love with reading again.  So, if you’re looking to jumpstart your reading habit or find new ways to enjoy reading again, please keep reading for our top tips.

But first, why have you lost interest in reading?

It could be because of a lifestyle change, or you’re struggling to find time to read.  Other reasons include you’re trying to read books that don’t interest you, not understanding what you’re reading, or maybe you’re going through a reading slump.  If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry – there are ways to overcome your reading struggles!

Is struggling with reading normal?

Absolutely!  It’s perfectly normal to lose interest in reading from time to time, and it doesn’t mean you don’t like reading.  In fact, reading slumps are a common problem for many people – including avid readers.  So if you’re struggling to get back into reading, please know there are ways to overcome your slump and fall in love with reading again.

How do I get back to reading books again?

For starters, you need to find books that interest you.  Whether trying a new genre or reading about topics that make you think, that you find interesting or entertaining, only read books that pique your interest.  It’s also important to set realistic goals for yourself and make reading part of your daily routine.  Finally, don’t forget to take breaks and reward yourself for reading and finishing a book.  So, let’s jump into our top ten tips to help you fall in love with reading again.

10 Practical Tips To Fall in Love with Reading Books Again

1. Find a book that interests you.

One of the best ways to get into reading books is to find a book that genuinely interests you.  So whether it’s a thriller, romance, or even a non-fiction book about your favorite hobby, make sure you choose something that will hold your attention from beginning to end.

If you’re unsure where to start, ask your friends or family for recommendations, check out online reviews, or browse through your local bookstore or library.  Once you’ve found a couple of potential options, give them a try and see which one you like best.

2. Set aside time for reading books.

Another great way to get into reading is to set aside some dedicated reading time each day or week.  Whether it’s 20 minutes before bedtime or an hour on your lunch break, carving out some time in your schedule will make it easier to sit down and read.

And if you find that you don’t have much free time, try listening to audiobooks  – this way, you can easily fit reading into your busy lifestyle.

3. Join a book club.

Joining a book club is a great way to stay motivated and accountable when it comes to reading. You will be able to chat with other book lovers about what you’re reading, but you’ll also have a built-in reading list to help you get started.

To find a book club near you, check out your local bookstore or library, or search online. You can also start a book club with friends or family members.

I would also like to invite you to join the BiblioLifestyle Community and Bring Your Own (BYOB) Club!  This is a members-only community where we connect over our love for books, share recommendations, build lasting friendships, and encourage each other along the way.  At our Bring Your Own Book (BYOB) Club, you can bring any book you’re reading to our monthly meetings and tell us all about it.  So no more assigned reading; this is the club where you can read what you want.  No book?  No problem.  If you’re in a reading slump, or you just didn’t read anything great that month, you can still come to our meetings and have a great time!

4. Visit your local library.

Libraries are great resources for avid readers and newcomers alike. They offer a wide variety of books to choose from, but they also have staff on hand who can offer recommendations and answer any questions you might have.

Plus, most libraries offer free events like author readings and book clubs that are open to the public, so check them out!

5. Check out used bookstores.

Used bookstores are great places to find hidden gems – and they’re usually much cheaper than buying new books from a regular bookstore. So, if you’re on a budget or want to try something different, be sure to check out your local used bookstore the next time you’re looking for a new book.

Opting to read backlist or older books is also a low-pressure entry point to reading instead of choosing those buzzier new books.

Frequently Asked Questions about reading for pleasure and how to fall in love with reading

How do I start loving to read?

Starting to love reading often begins with finding the right book.  So first look for a book that piques your interest; whether it’s a thrilling mystery, a heartfelt romance, a captivating autobiography, or transportive fantasy we first need to find the right book for you.  If you have an idea of the kind of books you might be interested in, you can browse the book lists here on BiblioLifestyle for ideas, but if you want a more personal recommendation, stop in at your local library or bookseller because they would love to help you.  It’s also helpful to set a specific time just for reading, such as before bed or during a lunch break, which can turn reading into a cherished routine.  Also, consider joining or starting a book club. Discussing a book with others can deepen your understanding and appreciation of it and if you’re looking for a place where you can share your latest read, consider becoming a member of the BiblioLifestyle Community and the Bring Your Own Book (BYOB) Club!  Lastly, remember that it’s okay to put down a book if you’re not enjoying it.  The goal of reading is to enjoy the process, so don’t feel obliged to finish a book just because you started it.  Plus, let your curiosity guide you, and you’ll soon discover the magic of getting lost in a book.

How can you fall in love with reading?

Falling in love with reading is a journey that is individual and unique as the books you choose to explore. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Discover your preferred genre: Experiment with different types of books to find what truly captivates you. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, mystery, romance, or fantasy, discovering your preferred genre can make reading much more enjoyable.
2. Create a reading environment: Find a comfortable, well-lit space where you can relax and immerse yourself in the book undisturbed. Making your reading environment inviting can significantly enhance your reading experience.
3. Set a reading schedule: Having a set time dedicated to reading each day can be helpful. This can be during a quiet morning, a lunch break, or before bedtime.
4. Join a book club or reading group: Sharing your reading experiences with others can make reading more enjoyable. A book club provides a platform for discussion and gives you a sense of community.
5. Read at your own pace: Don’t rush through books. Take your time to soak in the plot, the characters, and the author’s writing style. The goal of reading is not to finish the book as quickly as you can but to enjoy the journey.

Remember, the goal is to enjoy the process of reading and not to view it as a chore. With patience and persistence, you’ll likely find that you have fallen in love with reading.

Why is reading important?

Reading books is important for countless reasons, but here are ten reasons why reading is important:

1. Reading helps to improve your vocabulary and your understanding of grammar.
2. Reading helps to develop critical thinking skills.
3. Reading books can help improve your communication skills.
4. Reading also helps to improve your memory and your concentration.
5. Reading helps improve your problem-solving skills.
6. Reading books can be a great source of enjoyment.
7. Reading can also help expand your horizons and broaden your perspective.
8. Reading allows you to learn about new cultures and new ideas.
9. Reading can also help to foster empathy and understanding.
10. Reading is a great way to relax and de-stress.

Whether you’re looking to improve your mind or seeking a little escapism, reading has plenty to offer.  There are no bounds to what reading can do for you!

How can reading change your life?

Reading can change your life in several ways.  First, it can introduce you to new and different ideas you may have never considered.  Second, reading can help improve your concentration, focus, and memory.  Third, reading can keep your mind active and engaged, preventing it from becoming idle or bored.  Finally, reading can provide you with a form of mental stimulation that can help relieve stress and anxiety.  In short, reading books can have a profound impact on your life, both mentally and emotionally.  If you haven’t already started reading, now is the perfect time to pick up a book and explore the world of literature.  Who knows?  The next book you read could change your life.

How do you get a passion for reading?

To get a passion for reading, start by exploring a variety of genres and authors to find what truly captivates you.  Take advantage of visiting local libraries and bookstores and exploring online communities to find inspiration for what to read because finding the right book will help you find your passion for reading.  It’s also important to set aside a specific time each day for reading and make it a part of your daily routine.  Because when you read a little every day, it will help you discover those engaging stories, fascinating characters, and compelling themes can often ignite a love for reading.  Don’t forget if a book isn’t working for you, it’s ok to set it aside.  Because the joy of reading is not about how many books you read but about the journey each book takes you on. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and before you know it, you’ll have cultivated a passion for reading.

Why did I lose my love of reading?

There can be several reasons why you might feel like you’ve lost your love of reading. One common reason is simply a lack of time. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be tough to carve out enough time to truly immerse yourself in a good book. Alternatively, you might be experiencing a reading slump, which can happen if you’ve been reading a lot or forcing yourself to read even when you’re not enjoying it. It’s also possible that you’ve been choosing books that don’t appeal to you. Reading, like any other hobby, should be about enjoyment, and not every book is going to be suitable for every reader. Lastly, distractions like technology and social media can also prevent us from focusing on reading and unfortunately it can result in us losing our love for reading.

Regardless of why you have lost your love for reading, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to take a break from reading, especially if you’re not enjoying it.  Take the time you need, and the next time you decide to pick up a book, select something that you are truly interested in, not what everyone is reading, and your passion for books might just rekindle.

What if I don’t like reading?

If you don’t like reading, it’s possible that you simply haven’t found the right book yet.  Everyone has unique tastes, and it can take some trial and error to discover what type of books you enjoy.  So try to explore different genres, authors, and styles.  Additionally, consider the format — you might find that you prefer audiobooks or digital books to traditional paperbacks or hardcovers.

Remember, reading should not be a chore.  It’s about discovering new worlds, learning new things, and enjoying the journey the words take you on.  So, if you haven’t fallen in love with reading yet, don’t worry — keep exploring, and you might just find the right book that sparks your passion for reading.

What are the benefits of reading books?

The benefits of reading books are numerous, but here are ten benefits of reading books:

1. Reading helps you learn new words and improve your vocabulary.
2. Reading helps improve your concentration and focus.
3. Reading helps reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Reading helps improve your memory and retention skills.
5. Reading helps improve your critical thinking and analytical skills.
6. Reading helps improve your writing skills.
7. Reading helps broaden your perspective and increase your knowledge.
8. Reading can be a form of entertainment and help you relax and escape reality.
9. Reading can help you fall asleep faster and sleep better.
10. Reading is a relatively inexpensive hobby that can be enjoyed anywhere at any time.

Just like the importance of reading books, the benefits are numerous.