If you are anything like me, you’re a perpetual list maker. There’s just something about getting it all out of your head and onto paper that is freeing in a way.
Plus, the satisfaction of checking things off or crossing things out is inexplicably joyful.
I love organizing my thoughts, ideas, and any other information in this way. So of course, it’s no different for my reading life! I have so many book lists that I’m always adding to and changing around.
These are some of the easiest spreads that you can make in your reading journal. They can be created on any lined, blank, or dot grid page with only a pen (and a ruler if you’re picky about like straight lines like I am).
To along with this post, I have also created a free PDF download of these spreads that you can use and re-use as many times as you’d like. I love being able to just print out an already made for me template.
Here are five different types of book lists that you can keep in your reading journal:
1. TBR List
Ah, the classic, of course. This is typically the list that changes the most frequently for me. I’m constantly adding and removing books.
And, let’s be real, I have way more book in my to be read pile than is probably sensible.
But my favorite part is getting to check them off as I complete them. It feels like a small reward for making progress on my reading goals.
What I love most about having a printable version of this is that if you have a sudden change in your life or reading preferences and you want to start all over with a new list, all you have to do is throw it out and print another one for a fresh start.
2. Wish List
A wish list is the perfect way to keep track of all the books you want to purchase. You can plan your budget accordingly and bargain hunt to find the best place to purchase each book from.
3. Book Series Tracker
If you are like me and don’t always read a series all the way through from start to finish, then this is the perfect list for you. Sometimes I like to take a break from a series and come back to it later, especially for longer ones.
So these trackers are helpful to keep up with multiple series and your progress on them.
This is also especially helpful if you are reading a series that isn’t yet complete. You can write the expected publishing dates on these printable trackers.
I created four versions of this type of list that are all included in the free download for duologies, trilogies, series up to six books long, and series up to ten books long.
4. Library Books
I’m an avid library patron. I love my local library and the wonderful people who work there. Because I read SO much, this is how I tend to get the majority of my books. It saves me a lot of money.
Plus, I can try out new genres and authors that I would normally never buy, and many times I find something I love completely unexpected. It’s also a great way to start a series and see if you like the first book before buying them.
But you have to make sure that you are keeping track of when those books are due so that you don’t end up having to pay any late fees. Keeping a list of your library books is another great spread to have in your reading journal. I also included a place for you to write which shelf the books are located on to make searching for them easier.
5. New Releases
This is one of my favorite spreads to keep in my journal. I get so hyped about my most anticipated releases for the year.
I created a one page version of this printable for anyone who only wants to keep track of a few special books. And for anyone that has a lot of new releases they are looking forward to, I made a three page spread with more room to write all of them.
You can write the title, the title and author, the title and expected publishing date, or whatever information you would like about the books you are looking forward to releasing in the upcoming year.
Hope this gives you some ideas and inspiration for your own reading journal. Don’t forget to download your freebies by clicking the link below. 👇
