We’ve all been there - staring at a book, flipping through pages without truly engaging, or worse, not even picking one up for days or months. The dreaded reading slump can sneak up on even the most passionate book lovers (been there, done that), and it can feel frustrating when reading no longer brings that spark it once did.

If you’re feeling stuck in a slump, you’re not alone. I’ve been through it more times than I can count, and over time, i’ve found some simple but effective ways to gently pull myself back into the joy of reading. Here are my go-to tips to help you break free from a reading rut and fall in love with books all over again:

✨Revisit A Comfort Read

There’s something magical about returning to a book you already know and love. It feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket while listening to the rain outside. Whether it’s a nostalgic childhood favorite or a cozy romance that once made you swoon, rereading a beloved book can reignite your reading spirit and ease you back in without pressure.

My comfort reads? Anything by Markus Zusak.

✨Switch Up Your Genre

Sometimes slumps happen simply because you’re burned out from reading the same type of book again and again. If you’ve been stuck in contemporary romance, maybe it’s time to try a fantasy book or a classic. I always find myself stuck when reading romance. Somehow, I am not a romance books girl and I am more of a fast-paced reader. Changing genres can refresh your mind and spark curiosity again. Try something different and you might surprise yourself with a new favorite that you cannot stop talking about later on!

✨Short & Sweet Reads

During a slump, long, complex books can feel overwhelming. Instead, try novellas, poetry collections, or short stories. The quick gratification of finishing something can boost your confidence and get you back into the reading flow.

Some suggestions:

The Little Prince - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Milk and Honey - Rupi Kaur

Things my Son Needs to Know About The World - Fredrick Backman

Eat, Pray, Love - Elizabeth Gilbert

✨Create a Cozy Reading Vibe

Sometimes the environment makes all the difference. Set the scene: light a candle, make a cup of tea, grab a soft blanket and switch your phone on airplane mode. Creating a calm, inviting place can help you feel more present and more likely to reach for a book.

Bonus tip: I play instrumental or ambient music in the background: rain sounds, library jazz or lofi.

✨Don’t Force It

Here’s something I’ve learned: reading should never feel like a chore. Instead of putting pressure on yourself to “get back on track”, try to romanticize the reading experience. Let yourself fall in love with the idea of reading again. Browse bookstores, organize your shelves, create a pretty To Be Read list, or spend time scrolling through Bookstagram or BookTok for inspiration.

Being around bookish vibes is enough to gently nudge you back into reading more.

✨Bonus Tip: Try Audiobooks or Graphic Novels

When reading feels like too much effort, audiobooks can be a perfect bridge. You can listen while walking, driving, cleaning or even before bed. It still counts as reading - and often, the narration brings a whole new layer of enjoyment to the story.

Graphic novels are another underrated gem. The visual storytelling makes them engaging and easy to finish in one sitting. I have recently started reading my first manga as I had no other books left in my TBR inside the house and it’s actually amazing discovering something new, it offers you a new perspective on how many ways of telling stories there are in the world.

Final Thoughts

Reading slumps are completely normal, and they don’t make you any less of a reader. Sometimes your mind and body just need a break - and that’s okay. Be gentle with yourself, experiment with new ways to read, and most importantly, trust that the joy will come back when you’re ready.

Have you been in a reading slump lately? What helps you get out of it? Let me know in the comments - I’d love to hear your tips too!