Even the most diligent readers hit the dreaded reader slump. Suddenly, none of the books on your TDR look appealing, your ability to finish books is shattered, and you’re not quite sure how to get your spark back. Everyone has a different method for dealing with a reading slump. If you need to try something new, try some of my favourite hacks!
Try Out New Reading Styles
In the past few decades, reading has changed dramatically. The actual act of reading looks different, and if you’re in a reading slump, it’s time you used that to your advantage. Take reader burn out as your chance to explore new formats that you’ve otherwise avoided.
Don’t know where to start? I’ve got blog posts on some of my favourite horror manga and audio dramas to help you get started.
Graphic Novels and Horror Manga
Little blurb about horror manga and graphic novels. These have become more readily available, and if you’re interested in things like webtoons, the artist makes them available for free online.
Audiobooks – The Modern Day Midnight Society
Little blurb on how audiobooks are a great way to get started. They’re widely available on Audible and on Everand, but also for free at your local library. If you’re new to audiobooks and are struggling to get into them, there are some alternatives like audiodramas or full-cast audiobooks.
Ditch Your Reading Slump With Immersive Reading
Quick intro about how it’s difficult to focus on books when you’re stressed. Reading is a painful process if you’re on your phone every five pages. Dedicate some time to try out immersive reading, a practice where you intentionally dive a little deeper into your book. Light a candle that smells like evergreens and moss the next time you pick up a cottagecore horror novel. Put on tavern ambience next time you flip open your favourite spooky fantasy. Or try really focusing in by listening to an audiobook while you read on paper.
Looking for some ideas to get started? I’ve paired up some of my favourite books with some fun immersive ideas to make it easy for you.
Cure Your Reading Slump With Movies
Often, the hardest part of getting out of a reading slump is mustering the energy to start. One of my quickest ways to build up that energy? Make reading as easy as possible. Pick up some books that you’ve already seen an adaptation for so that it’s easier for your brain to just focus on the story. One of my favourite examples? Last summer I got myself out of a slump by churning through Stephen King’s novella Secret Window, Secret Garden. Not having to come up with a mental image for the lead character, and having an idea of where the story was headed, let me get completely lost in the little details and removed a lot of the pressure for me.
Final Thoughts
Reading slumps don’t have to be permanent. If you’ve found yourself unmotivated to pick up a book, don’t panic. Take a break, catch your breath, and try out some new ideas to get that spark back. Pick up some audiobooks at your local library so you can explore stories in a new way. Immerse yourself in your book by trying to recreate the recipe your favourite character loves. And whenever you’re really stuck, try to lighten the mental load by picking up a book you’re already familiar with.
Have any other reading slump hacks? Let me know how you cured your last slump in the comments, and be sure to share any tips with the book club on Discord!