As I’m writing this, I realize that a lot of places have already started school again (college, high school, even elementary schools). Where I live, it’s still summer (hot as &*x# outside), and school doesn’t start till after Labor Day in September.

But no matter what time of year it is, sometimes we hit a reading slump. We yearn for a good book to read, but somehow that towering stack of To Be Read books just isn’t appealing. So, what can you do?

Re-read an Old Favorite

Is there a book you read recently – or not-so recently – that you really loved? Or that old favorite that you’ve read a dozen times in years past? While you’re trying to decide what to read next, you can always re-read something you’ve read before. There’s nothing wrong with reading a book again and again. It’s a great way to entertain while still being low pressure (because you know the plot), engage your brain in a way that only reading can, and you still might even get something new out of it. And it can get you back into the mode of reading if you’ve been stuck in a non-reading slump for a while.

Go to the Library and Pick Something Random

A friend of mine recently mentioned that, when struggling to find something to read, they’d gone to the local library, stared at the new release section till they found a cover that grabbed them, and checked out the book. They loved the book, and it helped lead to other books. If you really can’t decided even what genre or type of book you’re in the mood for, literally picking one at random might be just what can help you out.

Stalk Your Friends on GoodReads

I’m notorious for forgetting to update my “currently reading” list on GoodReads, but I have a long list of read books and reviews. I’ve found that reading positive reviews of a book is sometimes more convincing that the actual blurb of the book, especially if reviewers seem genuinely excited about the book. You could also search for book covers on Pinterest and click on your favorites until you find one that actually leads to the book for purchasing (or free reading). Sometimes a cover really does sell a book.

Do you have other tips and tricks for getting out of a reading slump? Please share!

Like what you’re reading? Buy me a lemonade!