The reading slump. Even the most avid readers have suffered a period of not knowing what to read or losing the motivation to read at all. If you’re a person who normally loves to read or who recognizes the high value of the reading habit, you’ll feel an enormous sense of guilt and loss. “What’s the matter with me? I love to read! Reading is brain exercise! I need to read.” But…you just can’t get into it.
First, go easy on yourself. Reread a favorite book, or indulge in titles that fall in the “mind candy” category, like trope-ridden romances and cheap thrillers. Give yourself easy wins by reading short stories or novels that you can finish quickly. Take a break from continuous prose by reveling in the artistic blend of comics and graphic novels. Many children have gotten their start in reading through this medium, and it works on adults, too.
If that’s not enough, step back in time and read a children’s book. Some children’s books, like Neil Gaiman’s Graveyard Book, are regularly enjoyed with equal enthusiasm by both children and adults. But in all fairness, most adults enjoy children’s literature once they try it again. Reread a chapter book you loved as a kid, or immerse yourself in picture books’ woven art + story experiences. Read a story aloud as a family; children’s enthusiasm for a good story is contagious.
Speaking of reading aloud, try an audiobook. There’s nothing like a good narrator to bring a story or concept to life. The audiobook tactic also works great if you feel like you’re “too busy to read,” or if you’re tired and find reading an eye strain. Install the library’s Libby app, download some audiobooks, and listen while you drive to work, clean the house or pay the bills.
You can also try a new genre or subject. If you just finished an amazing series that can’t be topped, switch gears to something totally different. Ask a librarian or friend for recommendations, or browse NoveList (available through the library), the library’s online browse lists or Goodreads for ideas. Read a few pages of several different books to see if anything grabs you. Follow a “no-guilt-quit” rule; if you don’t like the first few pages, toss it aside and try something else.
If all else fails, take a break from reading. Yes, that sounds like librarian blasphemy, but it’s often one of the most effective remedies. Reading works specific brain muscles, and all muscles need a rest to rebuild. Take a nap, go for a walk, call up a friend, explore a new hobby – do something else for a change. Chances are that after a few weeks, you’ll find your hunger for “a good book” re-emerge with renewed vigor. Plan ahead, because you may be tempted to catch up on five weeks’ worth of books in one sitting! Never fear, the public library will be ready for you when you need a fresh stock of books ASAP. Give us a call!
Julie Phillips, Director
Botetourt County Libraries
