Hi everyone! I’m Nina (@diarybynina) from the Archer & Olive Ambassador Team (@archerandolive). I’m so excited to share with you 7 reasons why you should start a Reading Journal in 2026.
If you love reading and want to begin the new year by tracking all the books that will accompany you or if you’re simply looking for a new personal ritual to enjoy your time, then this is definitely the kind of journal you should start.
Supplies
Remember you can use my code: NINIS10 to get 10% off
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Notebook
You can use any size of journal. In my case, I used an A5 notebook. -
Stamps, pens, stickers, etc.
Feel free to use any decorative elements that help you express your best version of your journal
Keeping a reading journal isn’t just about writing down what you’ve read, it’s about creating a space that reflects your thoughts and connects you with every story you’ve experienced. What you loved or didn’t like about the book, your deepest opinions, or whether it was what you expected, it all belongs there.
So here are 7 reasons to start one in 2026. Maybe this is exactly what you need.
1. It helps you read with more intention
When you get into the habit of writing about your books, you start noticing details, emotions, or lessons you might have missed otherwise.
It’s very common to finish a book and let your mind just move on without real reflection, but when you write about it, you internalize your own opinions much more deeply.
2. You remember your books better
Writing a small summary, a quote, or even a doodle about the story helps your brain retain what you loved about it. Weeks later, when you revisit those pages, you instantly relive the emotions that book gave you.
That’s the magic of journaling.
3. It turns your notebook into a safe space for emotions
Sometimes books mirror how you feel, and when you capture that on paper, your reading journal becomes a gentle, pressure-free way to process emotions and connect with yourself without judgment.
4. You discover your reading patterns
Over time, you’ll notice what truly resonates with you, your favorite genres, authors, and moods. (For example, I discovered I’m a total fantasy lover and obsessed with a good dragon story.) This kind of insight helps you find new books that actually match your vibe.
5. It’s a spark of creativity (and it’s adorable)
Adding notes, doodles, stickers, stamps, or decorations turns journaling into a moment of pure creativity. It doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to help you express yourself through color and words.
6. It’s a record of your personal growth
Just like a personal diary, a reading journal captures every phase of your life. Every book changes you, even if just a little. Each entry becomes a memory of who you were, what you learned, and how it touched your soul.
7. It makes reading feel special again
In a world that moves INCREDIBLY fast, a journal forces you to slow down a little. You give yourself permission to write and enjoy the small things, like a quiet moment, a cup of coffee or tea (I’m definitely team coffee, probably my Colombian side showing), and a new page waiting for you.
It becomes a personal ritual of creation. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?
That’s all I wanted to share with you today.
To make it even more meaningful, I created a Reading Bucket List printable that you can add to your journal! You can download it, decorate it, and make it your own.
I hope it inspires you to fill your new year with books, creativity, and calm moments.
And whenever you’re not sure where to start or if you’re still deciding whether to begin a reading journal, just remember… Every page you fill becomes a little piece of your own story.
Video and printable
If you want to take a peek at my own reading journal, you have to watch this video!
If you decide to start your own reading journal, don’t forget to tag me and Archer and Olive so we can admire your creation! Use @Archerandolive @diarybynina @archerandolive.community #AOshare #archerandolive
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