It happens to the best of us. Even avid readers like myself can fall into a reading slump from time to time.

Sometimes I finish a super good book (or more commonly it’s after I’ve read two or three great ones in a row,) I have a hard time getting into the next thing I try to read. Sometimes it’s takes two or three false starts for something to stick.

Maybe you’re searching for your next book to start, or maybe you haven’t picked up a book in weeks, months, or even years. No matter the cause, if you’re looking to break out of your reading slump, here are some tips:

Try re-reading an old favorite

I’m not much of a re-reader, but I’ve heard it works to reignite the reading flame. I definitely have books with certain passages I return to when I need a boost.

Look for something new from a favorite author. 

If you’re like me and don’t want to re-read a book, go online and look for material from a favorite author that you haven’t read before. For me, this is often a magazine article one of my favorites has recently written. Sometimes when I’m feeling low, I go to YouTube and watch interviews with my favorite celebrities, many of which are authors.

Go to the library

This works for me every time! You could try a bookstore, but I suggest a library first because it’s free and likely to have a wider range of material available and on display.

Re-organize your selves

I do this a few times a year and it always motivates me to read. “Oh hey, I forgot I had this,” is a frequent comment when I’m sorting my shelves. It also gives me ideas of books I can suggest to friends, and topics to write about.

Listen to an audio book

I sing the praises of audio books all the time. It’s a fantastic way to ingest the content and is a totally different experience from physically reading. Consider a recording with a full cast for an even richer listening experience!

Plan a reading day

Choose a book, or better yet, treat yourself to a brand new one you’ve been dying to get your hands on. Then curl up in your favorite reading spot and dig in.

Ask for suggestions

Librarians are always willing to help you find something you’ll enjoy. Or even better, ask a friend, family member, or someone else you admire for a recommendation. When I get a suggestion from someone I care about, I always take it seriously and am more likely to stick with the book so we can discuss it later.

And if all else fails…

Take a break

If you really truly don’t feel like reading right now, honor that feeling. Take a break from books. Dive into something else you are passionate about. When the time is write, you’ll be craving the feeling of a book in your hands again!