In 2025, I thought I failed. I was six books shy of achieving my annual reading goal. No matter that I’d read 44 books, more than the average American; it wasn’t the 50 I’d set out to complete.
For a while, flipping the pages of a novel has felt more like an item on my to-do list and less like a way to unwind. Then, while reporting on the best ways to read more in 2026 (are we surprised?), I tried out a reading journal from one of my favorite stationery brands, Papier.
I’ve found the journal to be a structured, scrapbook-y way to keep track of my goals – and a way to transform reading into a more mindful and intentional experience.
Avid readers or not, we could probably all appreciate slowing down that way in our busy lives.
At a glance
The best way to read mindfully: Papier Reading Journal
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What exactly is a reading journal?
A reading journal is akin to a diary, but instead of recording your deepest thoughts (although those are welcome too), you’re reflecting on what you’re reading.
Sure, you can use Goodreads, but if you’re trying to reduce your screentime, a reading journal is ideal. After trying Papier’s, I can say it offers the same level of organization in a much more mindful package.
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What’s the best reading journal?
While plenty of stationary brands offer their own versions, I adore this beautifully designed one from Papier. In January, it helped me log six new reads. While this may read like sponsored content, I simply can’t resist these journals that make me feel like I have my life together. I already swear by its daily planners.
The journal has an index with slots to record 32 books and their titles, genres, dates read and starred ratings. It also allots four pages per book for writing lengthier reviews. Rather than leave you puzzling over how to fill the space, each page has questions to guide your thoughts. A couple of my favorites: “First impressions?” and “Would you read this book again?” There’s leftover space to write extra thoughts, favorite quotes and quick summaries.
The “wishlist” section lets me record up to 56 books I hope to add to my shelf. I’ve already jotted down 12 novels, including two of my most anticipated releases, The Burning Side and Yesteryear. And as someone notorious for losing library books (and getting fined), I appreciate the “borrowing and lending” section, where I can log the loan and return dates for up to 25 titles.
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How does it help both readers and non-readers?
In a culture that prioritizes productivity hacks and optimization, using a physical reading journal encouraged me to implement mindfulness into each reading session – and in turn, my everyday routine.
Knowing that I’d have the opportunity to write an in-depth review and list my favorite quotes inspired me to slow down and reflect on each chapter, which is something I don’t do enough of in my daily life.
And it’s a chance to write your unfiltered thoughts on a book. In my Goodreads reviews, I found myself exercising caution, worrying about someone judging my scathing review of BookTok’s latest romantasy fixation. However, in my journal, I didn’t have to sugarcoat my feelings, making each review feel more genuine. I’m often recruited by my busy corporate mom to select her next read, and I’ve already used notes from past reviews to help me select a title I think she’ll devour. (All the Little Houses, if you’re curious.)
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Can a reading journal really make you a better reader?
Realistically, a reading journal can’t promise to take you from completing one book a year to 100. It can’t promise to improve your vocabulary or double your reading speed. But what it can do is make reading a more mindful experience.
What’s more, as someone prone to nostalgia, I love that my reading journal doubles as a physical keepsake. I’m already looking forward to flipping through its pages in the years to come, when I can revisit my feelings about a book’s themes and reflect on my most loved titles of the year – whether that be five or 50.
$32 at Revolve $38 at Papier