Reading books is hard.

I typically read one book a week and usually plan on which books I’m going to read for each month. The books sometimes change, but I at least have a plan to start off with.

No matter how much you read, no matter how often, you’re always going to end up in a reading slump. There will be books that you don’t particularly care for (and for some reason, those books come in clumps). Then a reading slump is upon you and it’s hard to get out of it.

It’s not easy getting back into the swing of reading, but there are a few ways to at least pick out your next book.

When you’re in a slump, none of the books you have look appealing. So, what can you do?

1. Close your eyes and point

Seriously, take a look at your bookshelf, close your eyes, spin around a few times, and then point to something. Whatever book you land on, read that next. Even if it’s something you’ve already read. (Unless you didn’t enjoy it, then try spinning again).

2. Pick a number out of a hat

Write a bunch of random numbers down and put them in a hat. No, you don’t have to count every single book you have. Just write something random (3, 13, 23, 33, etc.). Whatever number you pull out, count the books on your shelves and read that book. So, if you pull out 33, take the 33rd book off your shelf.

3. Check out your siblings’ or friends’ bookshelves

Whether you’re into the same stuff or not, check out books you wouldn’t normally try. Ask what their favorite book is and give it a try yourself.

4. Ask for a recommendation from the library

Check out books you wouldn’t normally think to pick up. Tell a librarian your favorite book or author and ask them to find books similar to that that you may like. Whatever they come up with, take and give it a shot.

5. Play book bingo or do some sort of book challenge

Giving yourself a fun challenge is always a good idea. You’ll have a goal in mind if you’re looking for a book with a red cover or a book with a one-word title. Ask your friends to play along, too. The more, the merrier.

6. Reread a book you love

Let’s be real, you can never read too much Harry Potter… Right?

How do you pick out your next read? Let me know in the comments below!

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