Your “To Be Read” (TBR) list is probably overflowing with exciting book recommendations, right? Keeping track of all those titles—and actually reading them—can feel overwhelming. That’s where a reading journal comes in handy.
In this post, we’ll show you how to use a reading journal to organize, prioritize, and track your TBR list so you can make the most of your reading time.
Why Track Your TBR List?
1. Stay Organized
A reading journal provides a dedicated space to log all the books you want to read, making it easier to keep track of recommendations, new releases, and must-reads.
2. Prioritize Your Reads
Not every book on your list will demand immediate attention. A journal helps you sort by urgency, genre, or mood, so you always know what to pick up next.
3. Celebrate Your Progress
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of crossing a book off your TBR list. A journal lets you track your accomplishments and reflect on your journey.
Step 1: Set Up Your TBR Section
Start by dedicating a section of your reading journal to your TBR list. Here are some layout ideas:
1. Master List
- Write down every book you want to read. Leave space to add more titles as you discover them.
2. Prioritized TBR
- Create categories like “Next Up,” “Someday,” or “New Releases” to organize your list.
3. Genre-Based List
- Separate your TBR by genre, such as romance, fantasy, non-fiction, or historical fiction.
4. Series Tracker
- For ongoing series, track the books you’ve read and what’s next in the lineup.
Step 2: Add Book Details
For each book on your TBR list, include the following details:
- Title and author
- Genre
- Why it’s on your list (e.g., recommendation, favorite author, new release)
- Estimated reading time or page count
Step 3: Use a Progress Tracker
Tracking your progress visually can be both fun and motivating. Here are some ideas:
- Checklist: Tick off books as you read them.
- Progress Bar: Use a bar graph to show how many books you’ve completed.
- Shelves: Draw bookshelves and write titles on the spines as you finish them.
Step 4: Reflect on Completed Reads
Once you’ve finished a book, move it to a “Completed” section in your journal. Reflect on the following:
- Did it meet your expectations?
- Would you recommend it?
- Any favorite quotes or standout moments?
Step 5: Keep It Flexible
Your TBR list is likely to grow and evolve over time. Use your journal to:
- Add new titles as you discover them.
- Remove books you’ve lost interest in.
- Rearrange priorities based on mood or new releases.
Why a Reading Journal Makes a Difference
A reading journal transforms your TBR list from a chaotic collection of titles into a thoughtfully organized plan. It helps you focus on what matters most—enjoying great books without the overwhelm.
Ready to Get Started?
Our Bibliophile’s Bliss Reading Journal is designed to help you organize and track your TBR list with ease. With dedicated sections for your reading goals, favorite quotes, and progress tracking, it’s the perfect companion for book lovers. Download your free sample here and start tracking your TBR today!
Your TBR list is a reflection of your literary ambitions and interests. By using a reading journal, you can take control of your list, stay motivated, and fully enjoy the reading journey.
Happy tracking!
