12 Bookish Things to Do When You Need a Break from Reading

You love reading, but sometimes, you just need a break from your books. Sometimes, you want to get out and about, or even find fun things to do around the house, while still living that bookish life. At least, that’s how I feel a lot of the time! (Talk about book nerd problems!)

So if you’re looking for some bookish things to do, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite bookish activities – from reading playlists to writing a book review – that can help you live your best life as a bookworm.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links below which means if you make a purchase after clicking on one, I may earn a commission. Full disclaimer here.

1. Rearrange or Accessorize Your Bookshelf

Rearranging your bookshelf can be a fun way to give your space a new look. One fun way to start is by arranging books by color, which looks like a rainbow. Or you can sort them by genre or author for practicality. (In fact, I have a whole post dedicated to how to organize your shelves.)

Accessorize your bookshelf and make it more than just a book storage space. Bookmarks can be stored in small jars or hung on hooks for easy reach.

Incorporate bookish things into your shelf setup. For example, keep a bullet journal near your books. Use it to track your book reading, and jot down notes on your current read.

Another thing I like to do is add decorative elements like scrapbooks filled with literary quotes or favorite passages. These can be placed between bookends or laid flat as a centerpiece.

I also like to add things like bookends, cute signage, character pins, candles, mugs or framed book art. and other things that are in theme with the types of books I read.

A lot of items I get from my monthly Owlcrate subscription, but you can also find lots of cool stuff on Amazon such as:

• These baddie dragon bookends
• This artificial bonsai tree
• An DIY booknook
• Some decorative reading figurines

You can also reevaluate your storage solutions. add some baskets or boxes for storing smaller items like reading glasses, post-it notes.

Mix in personal items or photos and your bookshelf will be a true reflection of your literary journey.

2. Join Booktok, Bookstagram or Booktube

Booktok, Bookstagram and Booktube are all great places to connect with other book lovers via social media. You can follow your favorite creators to find new book recommendations, or you can share your favorite books, discover new books and connect with other book lovers.

On Booktok (TikTok’s book community) you’ll find short videos of book reviews, challenges, and recommendations. Creating content here helps you connect with readers worldwide.

Bookstagram (Instagram’s bookish side) is for sharing beautiful book photos. You can participate in themed photo challenges and use hashtags like #bookstagrammer.

Booktube (YouTube’s book section) allows you to create longer book-related videos. This could be detailed reviews, reading vlogs or book hauls.

Personally, I have a BookTok and a BookTube and it’s been such a fun way to share my favorite reads with others (also Bookstagram but I’m not as active there.)

Here are is a BookTube vlog I uploaded a while back showcasing all the books I read in January and what I thought about them:

And here’s a fun TikTok I made last time I went book shopping.

@corriesstories Let’s go boom shopping! Ending my self-imposed book-buying ban to feed my obsession with The Cosmere. And Robin Hobb. #bookshopping #cosmeretok #robinhobb ♬ Rotina – Drew

One perk to getting started on these platforms is that if you grow a big enough following, it can also lead to monetization opportunities through ads, creator programs or sponsorships.

As someone who has monetized a Youtube channel in the past, the best way to get to that point is by being authentic and consistent. .

Consider joining Twitter’s bookish circles too. It’s a space where readers and authors share thoughts, host chats, and discuss trending books. Jump in on these conversations and you’ll expand your network and your book world.

Get involved in your chosen community, post often, interact with other creators, and stay up to date with trends!

3. Join in Person or Virtual Book Clubs

Joining a book club is a great way to share your book love. It brings together people who love books.

You can join a local club and attend in-person meetings. It’s a great way to meet new people and have face-to-face discussions.

If commuting is a problem consider an online or virtual book club.

These clubs often use forums or chat apps for their discussions so you can participate from anywhere.

Virtual book events are a bonus.

Some clubs have virtual meetings with authors so you can ask them questions.

Why join a club? Here are some of the best benefits:

• Broader Perspective: Different opinions will help you understand the book better.

• Reading Goals: Regular meetings will make you read more.

• Community Feeling: Connect with other book lovers.

Find one that suits your interests and time.

Look on social media, library bulletin boards or book club websites. (Fable is my favorite place online!)

4. Attend Events at Your Local Bookstore or Library

You can get into the bookish community by attending events at local bookstores and libraries. Consider a virtual event which has become more common since the shift from in-person to online events. These places often host great activities that bring together authors, readers, and book lovers.

Book Readings and Signings

Attending book readings and signings at your local bookstore or library is a great way to meet authors and discover new books. Indie bookstores often host events with popular and emerging authors.

Authors are also moving their book launches online to connect with readers and celebrate their book releases. Bring your favorite book for a personal signature and you might get to ask the author a few questions.

Libraries also host readings sometimes with virtual events so you can participate no matter where you are. These events can be small and intimate so you get to connect with the author and their work.

My local chapters hosted an event with Margaret Atwood once, and I was able to meet her in person and get a signed copy of The Year of the Flood. It was awesome!

Book Festivals

Book festivals are community events hosted by libraries or local bookstores. They feature multiple authors and include panel discussions, workshops, and signings. Big festivals like the Brooklyn Book Festival feature both established and indie authors and a mix of genres and styles.

These festivals are not just about books; they often have food, music, and other cultural activities. Book festivals and such events are a great way to meet fellow book lovers, add to your book collection, and get into the bookish atmosphere.

5. Write a Book Review

Writing a book review is fun for any book lover. It’s easy and rewarding – you get to gush about (or rant about) your favorite and least favorite books.

You can write book reviews on Amazon or Goodreads, and if you find you really get into it, you might consider starting a book blog. (Like yours truly!)

6. Update Your TBR

I like to through my Goodreads account and tidy up my TBR list from time to time, removing books I’m no longer interested in and adding any new ones that have caught my eye.

A physical TBR pile can also be a great visual reminder of what you want to read next. Stack the books you haven’t read yet in a designated area. Seeing them might just prompt you to pick one up.

If you’re one of those types who agonize over what to read next a “TBR jar” can be a fun solution. Write down the titles of books from your TBR list on slips of paper and put them in a jar. When it’s time for a new book draw a slip out.

Updating your TBR regularly will keep you excited for each new read and keep your reading life interesting.

7. Listen to a Bookish Podcast

Looking for ways to get more bookish? Bookish podcasts might be the answer. These audio treats offer great insights and fun discussions about books, authors, and publishing.

Here are a few cool ones to check out:

• Cozy Club Podcast

• Book Fight

• NPR’s Book of the Day

• The New Yorker

• You’re Booked

• BookRiot

8. Book Launch Party

Attending a virtual book event or launch can be a thrill for any bookworm. Imagine being one of the first to get your hands on a hot new release. Virtual events including a book launch party are a way to connect with authors and celebrate new books online.

Book launches are held at local bookshops or larger bookstores. You might find them at a book festival too. They can be small and intimate or big and party-like.

Midnight book releases are even more fun. You’ll join other fans waiting for the clock to strike midnight to buy the new book. These launches often include readings, book signings and themed activities.

Make a list of upcoming book launches. Check your favorite authors’ websites or follow them on social media for event announcements.

Bring a book buddy who loves books as much as you do. It’s a great way to spend an evening supporting authors and finding new books. Don’t forget to bring your enthusiasm and maybe a question or two for the author!

9. Do a Book Unhaul

Feeling overwhelmed by your books? No space left on your shelves? Do a book unhaul!

Rummage through your shelves and pull out books you know you’ll never read again – or even book that you’ve never read, but know that deep down you’ll never get to. Make piles for donation, or take them to your local used book store.

Sell or trade your books at a used bookstore and get some cash or store credit for future reads.

A book unhaul clears space for new books and makes a book lover’s collection more manageable. And your old books find new homes. Win-win!

10. Make Some Bookish Crafts

Get inspired by your favorite books and create something, like your own bookmarks. You can use ribbon, glitter or even pressed flowers. I’ve also seen people cut the spines off of old paperbooks, laminate them, and use that as a bookmark.

If you cook or bake, why not try cooking recipes from your favorite novels? Bake a cake from a famous story or cook a dish a character loves. It will connect you to the story on a whole new level.

Another fun project is book-themed candles. Choose scents that remind you of certain favorite books or characters. For example, a lavender-scented candle could be a soothing scene from a fantasy novel.

11. Create a Cozy Book Nook

Creating a bookish nook is a must for any book lover. Find the perfect spot in your home where you can escape with your favorite book; preferably, acorner by a window or a quiet area in your living room.

Add a comfy chair or a cushioned bench with plenty of pillows to support you. Choose a chair that’s perfect for snuggling up with a good book.

Lighting is important. Mix natural light with a good reading lamp to avoid eye strain. A floor lamp or table lamp with adjustable brightness is a good investment.

Keep nearby:

• A small table for your tea or coffee.

• A blanket for extra snugness.

• A bookshelf or a stack of your current reads.

You can also add items that make you happy—like plants, artwork, or photos.

Use soft, warm colors to create a calm atmosphere. Think neutral tones and add pops of color with your accessories.

12. Write Your Own Stories

Many readers often find themselves wanting to write their own stories; after reading countless fantasy stories, I was inspired to write my own! And I have to say, writing your own book takes reading to a whole new level in a way I never expected – a good book becomes more than a story, but an inspiration!

If you’re looking for some motivation or community for your writing activities, check out NaNoWriMo. They host 30-day writing sprints several times a year. I did my first NaNoWriMo last November and it was such an amazing experience, and I’m gearing up for my second one next month to write the first draft of my fantasy novel.

If you’re looking to write something a little less daunting, you can try submitting stories in short story contests. Vocal Media and Reedsy are both great places to check out. You can also publish short stories on Medium, and if you sign up to be a paid Medium Member, you can earn money when people read your stories!

For example, here is a short story I published on Medium.

My biggest tip for new writers? Don’t worry about perfection in the first draft! In fact, don’t aim for it to be anything close to good. Just let your creativity flow. Set aside regular times to write—it’s easier to stay motivated if you make it a habit.

Conclusion

Whether you dive into social media, join a book club, or cozy it up at home in your new book nook, these Bookish activities are a great way to romanticize your life and add a little bit of magic to your day-to-day.

So go forth and get your book nerd on!