7 Reasons Why You Should Start a Reading Journal Right Now

As a reader, you might have already noticed how much advice there is readily available for those looking to get more reading done. You can check out my blog post on 10 Ways to Add Reading to Your Daily Routine, for example.

The usual such as speed reading and audiobooks are all well-known and proven. But what if you want to improve your reading experience, enrich those precious hours spent reading instead of thundering through them?

The simple answer to this wish is to start a reading journal. “What’s that?” you may ask, “and how do I even get started?” Your questions will soon be answered as I guide you through the wonderful and life-changing world of the humble reading journal.

Why Keep a Reading Journal?

1. Your Personal Reading Assistant

Ever stared at your bookshelf, wondering, Did I actually read that book, or did I just absorb the aesthetic of the cover? A reading journal solves that dilemma!

By keeping track of what you’ve read—titles, authors, start and finish dates—you’ll never again suffer from Did I finish this or just abandon it at chapter five? syndrome. Plus, it’s super satisfying to look back and see how much you’ve read throughout the year. It’s basically your personal library index, minus the stern librarian shushing you.

2. Boosts Your Critical Thinking Skills

Ever finish a book and think, I have THOUGHTS, but then two days later, those thoughts have mysteriously vanished? Writing them down is a game-changer.

A reading journal gives you space to capture every fleeting reaction, question, and revelation as you read. Before you know it, you’ll be analyzing plot structures, character arcs, and writing techniques like a pro. Who knows? Maybe this will turn you into the next great book reviewer—or even inspire you to write your own novel!

3. Never Forget the Wisdom You Gained

You know that moment when a book delivers a quote so profound it changes your worldview for at least five minutes? (And then you promptly forget it?)

A reading journal is your secret weapon against losing those golden nuggets of wisdom. Write down your favorite quotes, life lessons, and those “Wow, this book really gets me” moments. A few months later, you can flip back and relive the magic instead of vaguely remembering some book, somewhere taught you something important.

4. You Live Alongside It

Books and life are often deeply intertwined. Have you ever noticed how certain books remind you of specific times in your life? Maybe you read a cozy romance during the winter holidays or devoured a thriller while on a summer vacation.

Your reading journal becomes a time capsule of your literary (and personal) journey. Write about where you got the book, why you picked it up, and what was happening in your life at the time. Future you will thank past you for these nostalgic throwbacks.

5. Track Your Reading Achievements (and Brag a Little)

Let’s be honest—there’s something deeply satisfying about ticking books off a list. A reading journal helps you visualize your progress, set goals, and see how far you’ve come.

Want to read more diverse books? Track it. Tackling a 52-book challenge? Document it. Trying to finish that intimidating classic? Write down your thoughts along the way. It’s like gamifying your reading life—and who doesn’t love a little victory dance after finishing a tough read?

6. Helps You Pick Better Books in the Future

Ever picked up a book that sounded amazing but ended up being a total letdown? (I see you, misleading book blurbs.) A reading journal prevents that from happening again.

By jotting down what you loved, hated, and meh’d about each book, you start to recognize patterns in your reading taste. That way, when you’re staring at an overwhelming TBR, you’ll have a better idea of what books will actually click with you. Plus, it makes recommending books to friends so much easier—no more “Uhh, I read this book, and I think you’d like it? Maybe?”

7. Perfect for Learning & Studying

If you’re reading to learn—whether for school, work, or just because you love hoarding knowledge—a reading journal is essential.

Jot down key points, big ideas, and references so you don’t have to flip through an entire book trying to find that one section again. It’s basically your own personal study guide, making it easier to absorb information without losing track of who said what and why it was important.

Ready to Start Your Reading Journal?

By now, I hope I’ve convinced you that keeping a reading journal isn’t just for super-organized people with fancy stationery (though, let’s be honest, cute notebooks and highlighters do make it even more fun). Whether you go for a traditional notebook, a bullet journal, or a digital doc, the most important thing is to start.

Need a little help getting started? Check out my shop for printable reading journals that make the whole process easy and fun!

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