I’ll admit, I’m not a huge rereader. There are maybe a dozen books that I’ve returned to more than once, some of them I’ve read several times.

Because there are so many amazing books coming out every single week, I’d generally prefer to read something new than reread. However, there are times when returning to an old favorite hits the spot. So if you’re wondering if it’s worth your time to reread, here are the reasons I like to do it.

Why Should You Reread Books?

Familiar favorites are comforting.

Returning to settings, characters, and stories that you love can feel really nice, especially if you’re going through a tough time (ie. living through a pandemic.) Reading a new book is fun but it’s also a risk. Sometimes I want to know for sure that the next thing I read is going to be something I’ll enjoy. Also, I’ll listen to audiobooks repeatedly because I find hte narrators voice comforting or the message helpful.

Rereading improves retention.

Because I read fast and go through a ton of books, I don’t always retain well. I can tell you whether I liked a book or not, but I can’t remember plots or character names or endings. When I read it again, more details sink in.

Each read can have new meaning.

This is particularly true if you’ve aged a bit since you last read the book. Taking in the story with new life experience under your belt can change the way you view it.

The next book in the series is coming out.

This is a great reason to reread the series (or maybe just the last book) so the plot is fresh in your mind. The same thing goes for when a movie adaptation is coming out.

It can break a reading slump.

As I said at the beginning, sometimes I just want to read something I know I’m going to enjoy. If I’ve been through a string of duds, or if I’m not excited about reading, I will return to a favorite book or author, so I know what I’m going to get.

What inspires you to reread your favorites? Any reason that’s not on my list?

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