Create a Reading Journal for the Year
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Before moving into separate notebooks this year, I would always keep my reading notes in my daily journal. I set a goal this year to read 60 books, and in doing so, I want to be more purposeful about the learning that goes along with reading those books. As a former middle school English teacher, I tend to stick to middle-grade books even for my personal reading. There is something about this age group and the style of writing that will always speak to my teacher's heart. This blog post is not just about documenting the books I read but about creating a meaningful space to explore the power of stories. I wanted to provide a place where you can see the notebook, the overall process, and maybe grab some inspiration for your reading journal along the way.
Materials Used
I am so excited to be trying a Hemlock & Oak notebook for my reading journal! I found these through Heba’s YouTube and Instagram, and I love supporting a small business whenever possible. Check out Heba’s Reading Journal Setup if you get a second.
Hemlock & Oak Square Graph Notebook-Blank Cover in Rosewood A5
Archer & Olive Washi Tape Coffee and Books (This one keeps selling out on the A&O site, but you can find similar bookshelf washi on Amazon or Etsy)
Rongrong Bookworm Vol. 2 Sticker Book (Fall 2023)
First Page
Notebook
Reading Layouts & Spreads
New releases for 2024 (There are so many good ones coming out this year!)
Genre tracker by color (I tend to read a lot of realistic fiction and fantasy. I am looking to read more nonfiction this year)
Library books we love (My daughter and I go to the library each week, and I want to start tracking the ones that were so, so good)
Book recommendations from others
Favorite book quotes
Everyday Reading Notes
The majority of my notebook is blank because this is where my reading notes will go. Sometimes reading notes look like regular notes across the page, and sometimes I try to do something more along the lines of sketchnotes. My goal is to record and document the key memories and take-a-ways from each book I read.
