The Art of Book Journaling

Why Book Journaling Matters

Have you ever finished a book and wished you could hold on to the feelings it left behind? Book journaling is the perfect way to preserve those thoughts, reflections, and favorite quotes long after the last page. It’s more than recording what you read—it’s capturing how it made you feel and the ways it shaped your thinking.

A journal becomes a personal map of your reading life. Over time, you’ll see patterns in the stories that speak to you, the characters that resonate, and the lessons that quietly follow you from book to book.

How to Start Your Book Journaling Practice

1. Choose Your Journal: Any notebook works—lined, dotted, or blank. Pick one that feels inviting.
2. Capture the Essentials: Book title, author, date started/finished, and a short summary.
3. Record Your Reactions: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and favorite passages. Don’t overthink it—journal like a conversation with yourself.
4. Use Prompts: After each book, try prompts like:
   • “What stayed with me?”
   • “Which character do I relate to most and why?”
   • “What did this book teach me about myself?”
5. Add Creative Touches: Doodles, stickers, washi tape, or even pressed leaves for aesthetic appeal. Your journal should feel personal and enjoyable to open.

Even ten minutes of reflection after a reading session can deepen your experience and make reading more meaningful.

Books to Inspire Your Journaling

📖 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig — A reflective story about life choices, perfect for journaling your own reflections.
🌸 The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune — Heartwarming and whimsical, ideal for recording favorite passages and feelings.
💫 Circe by Madeline Miller — Rich in mythology and character depth, excellent for journaling insights and personal reflections.
🍂 Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng — Provides complex family dynamics and emotional layers to explore in writing.
🕯️ Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia — Atmospheric and thought-provoking, perfect for tracking emotional responses and aesthetic inspiration.

“A book journal isn’t just for recording what you read—it’s a mirror of who you are as a reader, thinker, and dreamer.”

Do you keep a book journal or want to start one? Share your favorite journaling prompts, layouts, or tips in the comments—or tag #BookBabeJournals on Instagram to show off your creative spreads!