If I have to be labeled as a type of reader, I would call myself a “Mood Reader”. That mood can take shape in so many ways-well, I am a human! I was going to say woman until I realized the hell I could face for that. A mood reader reads when the mood takes them, which these days is all the time, but that could turn on a dime. We have all faced a reading slump, and that has nothing to do with how much you love reading.
About a year ago, I discovered books again after years of being an irregular reader. I think it’s so easy to forget the joys of reading to the point of seeing it as labor. I was recently in a conversation about those who read a lot, and the other person said it was escapism.
The truth is it’s like another entertainment but better because it engages so many of the senses. Truth is TV and the Internet are also modes of escape, yet often not as good for your brain and nervous system. It’s possible you feel too busy or too tired, can’t settle on a book you want to read. Never fear I have a few ideas for ya:
Booktok & Booktube
TikTok and YouTube have exploded the world of books. I will be going over the pros and cons in my next post, but suffice it to say they do stir your interest in reading. This was how I came out of a year-long slump. It’s simple really: it’s a bunch of people talking about books which can make you salivate for the story. A lot of these creators also host live reading sprints where you read with the host and the audience.
Book Challenges & Book Clubs
Book clubs are cool because everyone reads the same book, most of the time with a time limit like book of the month to later get together to talk about it so it also encourages community.
I love a book challenge! I believe a lot of groups and clubs would arrange these or if you are like me- put yourself on one. At the beginning of each month I pick the number of books I want to read and keep a list. To me I feel like I’m achieving something.
Novellas, Anthologies, Short Stories
There are times where the length of the book can seem like a mountain and prevent us from getting started. Try starting with shorter stories to get out of a reading slump. It really works. There are authors who even write a novella as a prequel to series. I love that because it allows you to decide whether you wanna take the plunge.
Time & Place
Who doesn’t schedule their whole life? Make a commitment to set aside time. For instance: I will read from 8pm to 9pm every night. It really works, even set a reminder on your phone. Create a special place where you read with all the comforts and astethetics.
So, I hope this helps you get back on the reading train and out of the reading slump!
Blessings,
Heidi
