If your TBR pile is starting to resemble a literary version of Mount Everest, you’re not alone. So many of us book lovers have the best intentions — but between work, school runs, laundry, and that little thing called life, finding time to read feels like trying to schedule a vacation to Narnia.

The good news? You don’t need a time machine to read more books. With a few smart strategies (and maybe a cozy blanket), you can turn those good reading intentions into a reality—without sacrificing your sanity or your sleep.

At Once Upon a Book Club, we know that reading should feel exciting, not overwhelming. That’s why our curated book boxes are designed to make every reading moment special — so you’ll actually want to make time for it. It’s time to make a dent in that TBR list!

 

Tip #1: Set Manageable Goals

We’ve all been there, starting the year with a “52 books in 52 weeks” challenge and barely making it to February. While ambitious goals sound great in theory, they can quickly feel like pressure. And reading should be joyful, not stressful.

Instead, try setting small, realistic goals that you can actually stick to. Maybe it’s reading 10 pages a day or carving out 15 minutes each evening before bed. You’d be surprised how quickly that adds up. Finished a chapter? Celebrate! Hit your weekly goal? Reward yourself (chocolate cake, anyone?)

The key is momentum. Achievable goals build confidence, and that confidence keeps you turning the pages—and that’s where the magic happens.

 

Tip #2: Choose Books Strategically

Not all books are created equal, especially when it comes to pacing. Some novels are dense and poetic (we see you, Russian classics), while others are page-turners that practically read themselves.

If your goal is to read more in less time, opt for books that are fast-paced, plot-driven, and engaging from page one. Think thrillers, contemporary fiction, rom-coms, or even Young Adult books (yes, we adults love them too, which is why we created our Adult and YA bundle.) Check out our blog: Are YA books just junk food for adults or do they have just as much merit?

At Once Upon a Book Club, we carefully curate each book box to make sure it’s not just good, it’s captivating. From emotional rollercoasters to whimsical adventures, every story is paired with surprise gifts that keep you excited to turn the page.

Looking for something short and satisfying? Try books with shorter chapters, conversational prose, or diary-style formats. Graphic novels and novellas also make for quick yet impactful reads when you need something bite-sized.

Remember: the “right” book is always the one you want to keep reading.

 

Tip #3: Develop Consistent Reading Routines

Think of reading like brushing your teeth—a daily habit that becomes second nature with consistency. Setting up a simple reading routine can dramatically improve how often (and how much) you read.

Start small. Pick a regular time each day: maybe it’s during your morning coffee, your lunch break, or as a wind-down before bed. You don’t need hours. Even 10–20 minutes daily can make a big difference over time.

Create a mini ritual around it. Light a candle, grab a cozy drink, and make it something you look forward to. Bonus points if you have a designated reading spot with soft pillows and zero judgment.

The more consistent your reading routine becomes, the easier it is to stay on track—and before you know it, you’ll have finished more books than you thought possible.

 

Tip #4: Minimize Distractions

Let’s be honest: it’s hard to focus on your book when your phone is pinging, the TV is on, or someone’s asking where their left sock is. Creating a calm, distraction-free environment is key to making the most of your reading time.

Start by putting your phone on silent (or better yet, in another room). Turn off the TV, shut down notifications, and let those around you know it’s your sacred “reading time.” Even 15 minutes of undisturbed focus can be incredibly productive.

If you find it hard to concentrate, try the Pomodoro Technique: set a timer for 25 minutes, read without interruptions, then take a short break. Or play soft instrumental music or ambient sounds to help set the tone.

Need a little help staying off your phone? There are apps like Forest or Focus Keeper that can encourage you to stay focused for short bursts of time.

 

Tip #5: Embrace Audiobooks and eBooks

Reading more books doesn’t always mean sitting down with a physical copy. If you’re always on the go (hello, school drop-offs, commutes, or endless laundry folding), audiobooks are your new best friend.

You can listen while walking the dog, doing the dishes, or driving, turning everyday moments into literary adventures. Suddenly, that 20-minute drive becomes another chapter down.

eBooks are also incredibly convenient. You can carry an entire library in your pocket, and they’re great for sneaking in a few pages while waiting in line or during a quiet moment at work.

Audiobooks are especially helpful if you’re trying to get through denser books or if you have kids and crave a hands-free option. And don’t worry, listening to audiobooks totally counts as reading. (We checked. It's official.)

 

Tip #6: Schedule Dedicated Reading Time

Yes, it’s one more thing to “schedule,” but hear us out, adding reading to your calendar can be a total game-changer. Treat it like any other appointment, even if it’s just 15 minutes in the morning or a quiet half-hour before bed.

You can also try batching your reading into “reading sprints”—set aside a block of time on the weekend or during the evening, and read as much as you can. Invite a friend to join you for a reading date at a local café or library.

When you give reading a proper spot in your schedule, it becomes a priority, not an afterthought. And it’s amazing how much more you’ll read when you make it part of your daily rhythm.

Start with small, non-negotiable windows and build from there. Before you know it, you’ll be squeezing in chapters between tasks and racing to the next book.

Conclusion

Reading more books doesn’t have to mean sacrificing time, energy, or joy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; it brings joy and is known to give your brain a break from all of life’s many distractions. With a few simple changes—like setting realistic goals, choosing the right books, and creating a cozy routine—you can turn reading into a habit you love.

And if you’re looking for books that are so engaging you can’t help but read more, Once Upon a Book Club has you covered. Our handpicked selections and surprise gifts will have you racing through chapters (and counting down to the next box).

Ready to read more, stress less, and fall in love with books all over again? Let’s do this — one delightful page at a time. Why not order one of our current book boxes to get you started on your wonderful literary journey?