The second part of our post to get you picking up those books and back into the habit of reading again.
1. CREATE A BOOK NOOK
There's nothing quite like a cosy, charming, and inviting space for you to sit with your book and read in peace. Your reading nook could be a small corner of a room; an entire room; the disused space on a landing, or it could even be outdoors - just anywhere where it's quiet and where you won't be distracted. What you need is a comfy seat, a good reading light, and a little table for your tea and cake!
2. JOIN OR CREATE A BOOK CLUB
If you want to get into the habit of reading but keep putting it off, joining a book club might be a great way to get motivated when it comes to reading especially if you're someone who likes socializing. You'll feel as though you're part of a team, there's the social aspect and who knows - you might make some great friends as well. Plus book clubs are great places to share ideas and read books that you might not otherwise have come across.
And furthermore, if there isn't a book club in your area, there's nothing to stop you from starting your own.
3. START A BOOK BLOG OR VLOG
Those who have started a book blog or vlog have done so because they are keen readers who want to share their love of books with likeminded people. As a novice or born-again bookworm, there's no reason why you couldn't do the same. Starting a book blog/vlog or bookstagram is another way to get your motivation levels up; to inspire you to complete each novel; keeps you accountable for your goals, and is also a unique way to document your journey as a soon-to-be avid reader and fiction fan. It's also a great way to build up a community with other book fanatics, where you can bounce around ideas; share news... and maybe make some book buddies!
But remember, blogs and vlogs do take time and effort so start one if you feel you have the time, energy and patience to keep it going.
4. READ OUTDOORS
On a day when the weather is good, the outdoors makes a lovely calm, and serene environment to get comfy with a book, whether it's your garden, the park or the beach.
5. WATCH A TV OR FILM ADAPTATION OF A BOOK
The debate over film and TV adaptations of novels has been raging on since the creation of film and TV adaptations of novels! We're not going to get in on this debate, but as a tool to get you back into reading, adaptations do come in quite handy!
True there can be subtle differences (and sometimes major changes) between the original literary work and it's screen adaptation. And of course the book gives more in-depth background and details than its screen counterpart due to time constraints on the latter's part. But the essence of the book remains the same: the plot; themes; characters; setting etc. So watching the adaption may help you decide if you'd like to then pick up the book.
Admittedly its a massive spoiler to watch the adaptation before reading the book, so this is not a tip for those of you who don't wish to know what will happen!
6. CHECK OUT REVIEWS FOR INSPIRATION
So you can't judge a book by it's cover or by it's title - but you can (a little) by the review! Book reviews are very helpful to potential readers when deciding what to add to the all-important reading list. They give you a general idea of what the book is about, and if you're already a fan of the genre or the author, it might well be a novel you can't wait to get stuck into.
Although reviews are useful, remember that whether a book has been deemed good or bad is the reviewer's opinion. It's not necessarily gospel but rather a guide, so make up your own mind. We've come across some books that got fairly negative reviews and we found them to be quite good. And then there were some that got rave reviews and went on to become best sellers - and we really don't know why (no titles mentioned!) So stick to the facts - if it's your genre and the synopsis intrigues you, then you might enjoy it.
7. GO TO A LITERARY FESTIVAL
Also known as a book or writers' festivals, these are generally annual events which bring writers and readers together in certain towns or cities. Lit fests are a fantastic way to discover or rediscover a love of books. They are so much more than just authors sat at individual tables with a pile of books! There are readings given by authors; book signings; poetry recitals even acting performances. It's a great occasion for people who really enjoy the creative scene and will have you falling in love with the written and spoken word. And of course it's a chance to discover - and talk to - new authors, and find knew titles you might want to read. Check out what literary festivals are going on in your area.
8. RE-READ YOUR FAVOURITE NOVEL
There's nothing like an oldie but a goodie, so if you can't make up your mind about which new title to select, then why not re-read an old favourite? As long as you’re actually reading something that you enjoy and you're keeping the momentum going, that's the main thing.
Happy reading!
Photos: Pixabay
Blog Graphics: Angel Noire
As someone who's a little out of practice, I'll have to give these tips a go!