There’s something truly magical about reading together as a family — the kind of magic that doesn’t need Wi-Fi, batteries, or a remote control. It’s the cozy kind, wrapped in blankets, shared laughs, and wide-eyed “what happens next?” moments. A family reading challenge is more than just a fun goal — it’s a memory-making mission that brings everyone closer, one page at a time.

Whether you're a house full of bookworms or just dipping your toes into the literary pool, creating a family reading challenge is a fantastic way to bond, learn, and share the joy of storytelling. And with Once Upon a Book Club’s immersive, gift-filled reading experience, it’s never been easier (or more exciting) to turn a good book into a shared adventure.

Setting Goals Together

Every great challenge starts with a goal — and when the whole family is involved, the goal-setting should be a group effort. Gather around the kitchen table or curl up on the couch and talk about what kind of reading challenge would feel fun and doable for everyone.

Maybe it's a goal to read a certain number of books in a month. Maybe it's ten minutes of reading every night. Or maybe it's about exploring new genres and finding hidden favorites. The key? Make sure the goals are realistic and flexible. Life is busy, and reading should be a joy — not a chore.

Encourage everyone to share their preferences. One person might be into mysteries, another into fantasy, and someone else might want something laugh-out-loud funny. That’s the beauty of a reading challenge — it can stretch across genres, ages, and interests. You might be surprised by how much your kids enjoy a good historical fiction story or how Grandma suddenly gets hooked on graphic novels!

To keep things fresh, you could create mini-themes: “Mystery March,” “Adventure April,” or “Fiction with Food” (snacks required, obviously). The more variety, the more excitement — and the more likely everyone will stay engaged.

Choosing Engaging and Diverse Books

One of the most important parts of a successful family reading challenge is the book selection. To keep the whole crew interested, look for stories that are not only age-appropriate but also rich in diversity, creativity, and heart.

Books that cater to different reading levels and include relatable characters from all walks of life can open up meaningful conversations and expand horizons. Try mixing it up with chapter books, graphic novels, audiobooks, or even read-aloud picture books for younger siblings.

Need some inspiration? Why not check out our collection of ready-to-ship boxes? We have something for everyone, from Adults and Young Adults to Tweens. And remember: the more voices and experiences your book list includes, the richer your reading journey will be. 

Making the Challenge Interactive and Fun

Reading challenges don’t need to be serious business. In fact, the more playful they are, the more your family will look forward to them. Infuse your challenge with interactive elements that bring the books to life.

Try planning a storytelling night where each family member acts out a scene or narrates their favorite part using just the right voices. You could even dress up as characters or create crafts based on the book (paper pirate hats, anyone?).

Or take a page from Once Upon a Book Club’s playbook — literally. Our book boxes include beautifully wrapped, page-numbered gifts that correspond with key story moments. As you read, you get to open these surprises, turning a simple reading session into an immersive adventure.

You can even create your own mini-version of this at home. Wrap small tokens (like themed bookmarks or snacks) to go along with milestone chapters. It’s all about making reading feel like an experience—and a celebration.

Setting Goals and Tracking Progress

Visual trackers are a fantastic way to keep the excitement going. Try making a “Reading Tree” on the wall, where each leaf represents a book or chapter completed. Or create a sticker chart with fun milestones like “Read a book with a talking animal” or “Finish a story in your pajamas.” We have some great reading log bookmarks, which you can complete as a family! Or try our book bingo, it’s so much fun!

Set small rewards—think a trip to the local library, a movie night, or a homemade “Bookworm Crown” for the week’s top reader. The goal isn’t to compete but to cheer each other on and celebrate progress, no matter how big or small.

And don’t forget to reflect. At the end of each week, take a few minutes to talk about what you’ve read, what you loved (or didn’t), and what you want to read next.

Starting Conversation and Connection

Books have this amazing power to spark the best kinds of conversations, the ones that start with “What would you have done?” or “Why do you think they acted that way?”

Make space for those moments. You don’t need a formal discussion, just ask questions during dinner or bedtime. Talk about the characters’ choices, the themes, or even just the funniest scene.

Once Upon a Book Club’s themed surprise gifts are perfect conversation starters. When your child opens a gift that reflects a pivotal scene in the book, it invites questions and curiosity. Suddenly, the story isn’t just words on a page—it’s a shared experience you’re both living through together.

Launching Your Family Reading Challenge

Ready to get started? It’s easier than you think. Set a kickoff date, choose your first book (or box!), and put up your tracker. Announce it with some fanfare — maybe even a Reading Challenge Launch Party with popcorn and book-themed cupcakes.

Not sure where to start? We definitely recommend subscribing, or why not head to our current book boxes? These are perfect options that take the guesswork out of finding the perfect story. You’ll find books your family will love — plus all the extras to make the challenge feel truly special.

Conclusion

A family reading challenge isn’t just about pages read or books finished; it’s about time spent together, imaginations stretched, and memories made. These are the moments that stick—the giggles during a funny scene, the gasps during a twist, the cozy silence of everyone reading side-by-side.

So gather your books, grab your favorite reading snacks, and start your own family reading adventure. And if you’re looking to make it magical from the very first page, Once Upon a Book Club is here to help, one surprise-filled box at a time.

Check out our blogs, Bookish Outdoor Adventures: Plan a Family Literacy Scavenger Hunt and 5 Fun Games for  Book Lovers: Unleashing the Joy of Literary Play!