What Is a Reading Journal? A Simple Guide to Getting Started

Have you ever wanted to recommend a book to a friend but drawn a blank when trying to explain why they'd love it? Or maybe you've highlighted a life-changing quote on your Kindle, only to spend frustrating minutes scrolling through pages to find it again. 

We've all been there. A meaningful moment with a book can slip away far too easily.

That's where a reading journal comes in. It’s a place to capture those "aha!" moments, save the quotes that moved you, and keep track of the stories and ideas that shaped your thinking. 

In this guide, you'll discover:

• How to create a reading journal that fits into your busy life (no artistic skills or hours of free time required)

• Simple ways to retain those aha-moments from both fiction and self-development books

• Techniques to connect your reading insights with your personal growth journey

• Practical strategies to make journaling feel like me-time rather than another item on your to-do list

Let's explore how to make your reading more meaningful, one page at a time.

What Is a Reading Journal?

A reading journal is a personal tool for tracking your reading. It’s where you can jot down what you’ve read, save favorite quotes, or record your thoughts about a book. It’s a low-pressure way to stay organized and remember your reading.

Your journal is more than just a list of books, though. It can help you notice patterns in what you enjoy or how your reading habits change over time.

The great thing is there's no "right" way to use a reading journal. Whether you read a handful of books a year or devour a new one every week, a journal can be as simple or as detailed as you want it to be. 

Why Keep a Reading Journal?

A reading journal can do more than help you stay organized—it makes your reading experience more personal and enjoyable. Here are some benefits.

1. You remember more.

Ever finish a book and wish you could recall all the key ideas or your favorite moments? A reading journal helps you capture those details, so they’re always there to look back on. Whether it’s a powerful quote or an inspiring idea, you won’t lose it in the shuffle of your next read.

2. You deepen your connection.

Sometimes, a book resonates, and writing about it can help you understand why. A reading journal gives you space to reflect on how a book made you feel, what you learned, or even what you didn't like. It's a chance to connect with the story or ideas more deeply.

3. You track your journey.

A reading journal becomes a record of your reading life over time. You can see how your tastes, habits, or goals have evolved. It's fun to look back and remember what you read and what was happening in your life.

4. You get inspired.

If you’re into personal development books, a journal is a great way to take those insights off the page and into your life. Write down ideas you want to try or lessons you want to remember—it’s a small step that can lead to big changes.

What to Include in Your Reading Journal

Think of your reading journal as a conversation with each book you read. Like any good conversation, it can include whatever feels meaningful to you. Let's explore some ideas to get you started.

Essential details

The basics are the foundation of your journal. Start by noting the title, author, and when you began reading. 

But don't stop there. What drew you to this book in the first place? Was it a friend's enthusiastic recommendation? Your book club's monthly pick? Something you saw mentioned in another favorite book?

These details create a breadcrumb trail that's fascinating to look back on.

Your personal connection

Capture those quotes that stopped you in your tracks or made you reach for a highlighter. Write about the moments that made you laugh out loud or brought tears to your eyes. Notice certain situations parallel your experiences.

Note the ideas that intrigue you and the questions that linger after you've closed the book. These reflections often become the most treasured parts of your journal because they give you glimpses into your thoughts and feelings at different points in your life.

Growth and action steps

Whether you're reading fiction or self-development books, each one has the potential to spark change or new understanding. Consider recording:

• Lessons or insights you've gained

• Changes you want to make based on what you've read

• Skills or ideas you want to try

• Questions for your book club or future discussions

• Connections between this book and others you've read

Getting Started—Choose Your Format

Before making your first entry, let's find the perfect format for your lifestyle. You want to choose a method that feels natural because the best system is one you'll actually use.

Digital options

If you reach for your phone or tablet to make notes, a digital journal might be your perfect match. Digital journaling works well when you want to search quickly through your entries or access your notes from anywhere. It's especially convenient if you already do most of your reading on a Kindle or tablet.

For digital journaling, Notion is a favorite among readers who love organization and beautiful layouts. You can create templates, add tags, and even include book covers in your entries. 

If you prefer something simpler, Evernote offers a quick capture of thoughts and quotes on any device. 

Goodreads combines journaling with a vibrant community of fellow readers, while a straightforward Google Doc can be all you need to track your reading journey.

Physical journals

There's something special about putting pen to paper, isn't there? 

Physical journals offer a tactile experience that many readers cherish. They provide a welcome break from screens and create a tangible record of your reading life. Plus, handwriting can help you process and remember what you've read more deeply.

Your physical journal can be as simple as a plain dollar-store notebook or as structured as a pre-designed reading journal. Some readers prefer a bullet journal with custom reading sections, while others love the flexibility of a binder system, which allows them to rearrange pages at will. 

The choice is yours. What matters is that it feels inviting to use.

Setting Up Your System

Now that you've chosen your format, let's make it work for you.

Start simple.

Begin with just three core sections in your journal. Create a space for:

• books you've read

• your current reading thoughts

• a list of books you want to read in the future 

This simple structure gives you room to grow while keeping you organized from day one.

Make it sustainable.

The key to maintaining your reading journal is integrating it into your reading routine. 

Consider pairing it with an existing habit. For example, you might jot down your thoughts while having your morning coffee or take a few minutes before bed to reflect on what you've read. Keep your journal wherever you usually read, so it’s easy to reach when inspiration strikes.

Remember that not every book needs pages of deep analysis. Sometimes, a few quick thoughts capture the essence perfectly. 

On busy days, bullet points work just as well as lengthy reflections. The goal is for your journal to enhance your reading experience rather than be another task on your to-do list.

Add your first entry.

Starting is often the hardest part, so keep it simple. Beginning with your next book, write down what drew you to this topic. What are you hoping to discover or experience? 

After the first chapter, capture your initial impressions. These early notes often become fascinating to look back on once you've finished the book.

Grow your practice.

As your journaling habit develops, you'll discover what aspects you want to expand. 

You might create monthly reading goals or notice connections between different books. Some readers enjoy keeping themed reading lists or tracking how certain books influence their personal growth journey.

Looking for inspiration? A quick search for "reading journal ideas" on Pinterest or Instagram will open up creative possibilities. You'll find everything from minimalist entries to artistic layouts. 

While it's fun to see how others approach their reading journals, remember that what matters most is creating a system that works for you. Let these examples spark ideas, but don't feel pressured to replicate someone else's style.

Common Questions About Reading Journals

"What if I miss a few days or weeks?" 

Just pick up where you left off. Your journal isn't a test or a chore. It's a tool to enhance your reading. Start fresh with your current book and don't worry about filling in the gaps. Those missing days don't make your journal any less valuable.

"What if I don't finish a book?" 

Deciding to DNF a book is fine. Note why you set it aside. Maybe the timing wasn't right, or it wasn't holding your interest. These observations can help you understand your reading preferences better. You might return to the book later and find your earlier notes interesting.

"What about books that don't need much commentary?" 

Not every book needs pages of deep reflection. Sometimes a simple "loved it" or "not for me" is enough. The level of detail is entirely up to you.

"I feel like I'm not writing the 'right' things in my journal." 

There are no "right" things to write. Your journal reflects your unique way of connecting with books. Whatever you choose to write about (or not write about) is okay.

Ready to Start Your Reading Journal?

A reading journal is a simple way to get more out of your reading time. Whether you're starting fresh or looking to refine your current process, remember that your journal should work for you and your lifestyle. 

Grab a notebook or open a new document and write down what drew you to your current book and any initial thoughts. That's all you need to get started. 

Start small, stay flexible, and enjoy watching your collection of book thoughts and insights grow.