Reading Journal Guide

Calling all book lovers, bibliophiles and reading addicts! This blog is for you. 

If you live a bookish life and have been wanting to find a way to take your love of reading to the next level, consider trying a reading journal! It's a way to deepen your connection with books and yourself. Treasure each book that you read by making each reading experience richer and more meaningful through the art of journaling.

Follow our ultimate reading journal guide for reading journal supplies, info on how to start a reading journal, as well as some extra reading journal prompts and ideas. 

Benefits of keeping a reading journal:

Keeping a reading journal has several practical benefits. Creating a reading journal can enhance your reading experience by helping you reflect on and engage with the books you read. Firstly, it serves as a reflective tool, allowing readers to engage more deeply with the text and uncover personal insights and connections. Secondly, it enhances comprehension and retention by encouraging active reading and critical thinking. Additionally, a reading journal provides a tangible record of one's literary journey, offering the opportunity for growth and self-discovery over time. Ultimately, it transforms the solitary act of reading into a dynamic and enriching experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the written word. @mochibujo via Instagram

Reading Journal Supplies:

Choose the Right Journal: Select a journal that you enjoy writing in and that has enough space for your thoughts and reflections. Consider whether you prefer a traditional dot grid journal that you will customise or a reading journal with reading lists and prompts already inside. 
Check out our Reading Journals at WashiGang!

Choose your favourite reading themed stamps, stickers, washi tape and accessories to help enhance your reading and journaling experience! Check out our full collection of book and reading themed stationery here!

Reading Journal Guide:

Getting started with your reading is as simple as reading a book and writing about it. Read our guide below for tips on how to layout your reading journal and what kinds of prompts and ideas you could include. 

1. Reading List:
Make a list of all of the books that you're hoping to read. You can add to it as you go. It's a good idea to include a start and finish date column, as well as a star rating for each book. @thehelsproject via Instagram

2. Book Summary: Create an entry for each book that you've read. Include the vital details such as book title, author, genre, rating and a brief summary of the plot, highlighting the main events and key points.

3. Review: Review each book that you've read include a star rating, a brief or in-depth review of the book, your favourite quotes and specific prompts related to your reading goals, the author or themes in the book. 

@elle.mn.ope via instagram

4. Track Your Progress: Keep track of your reading progress by setting goals and tracking the number of books you read each month or year. You can also record statistics such as page count, genre distribution, or diversity of authors to gain insights into your reading habits.

5. Personalise Your Reading Journal: Make your reading journal reflect your personality by adding creative elements such as illustrations, book themed stickers & washi tape, or collages related to the books you read. Personalising your journal makes it more enjoyable to revisit and adds a touch of whimsy to your reading reflections. Consider decorating your reading journal based on the genre of books that you like to read, or in reading and library themed decor. 

Reading Journal Prompts & Ideas: 

1. Create a bookshelf drawing. Create a bookshelf to add all of the book titles that you've finished reading! This is a fun way to visually represent all of the books that you've read for the year. @mandyjournals via Instagram

2. Reflect on your favourite quotes. Explain why these quotes stood out to you and how they relate to the themes of the book.

3. Analyse the main characters in the book, discussing their motivations, personalities, and character development. 

4. Reflect on your emotional response to the book. Did it make you laugh, cry, or think deeply?@plannedandplanted via Instagram

5. Discuss how the themes or events in the book resonate with your personal experiences or worldview.

6. Research the author's background, writing style, and other works they have written.

7. Write a critical review of the book, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses.

@mochibujo via Instagram

Check out our full range of reading journal supplies here!

As you embark on your reading journal journey, remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Experiment with different formats, styles, and prompts to find what works best for you. Whether you're a seasoned bibliophile or just starting to explore the world of reading, a journal can be a faithful companion, enriching your literary adventures and deepening your appreciation for the written word. So pick up your pen, open that blank page, and let the magic of journaling transform your reading experience. Happy reading!