16 Reading Challenge Ideas (That Are Actually Fun)
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Feeling stuck in a reading slump? A fun challenge might be just what you and your TBR need to rekindle the magic! I’m going to share some reading challenge ideas for every kind of reader.
Whether you’re a juggling books between work and kids or just trying to reignite your love for reading, challenges are a great way to motivate yourself, discover new genres, and connect with other readers.
After completing over a dozen reading challenges in the past five years, everything from ticking off books that start with every letter of the alphabet (yes, “X” was a struggle!) to exploring books from different cultures and time periods.
I’ve even crafted my own clean A-to-Z reading challenge, so trust me when I say I know what makes these challenges both fun and easy to complete.
If you’re ready to spice up your reading life, you’ve come to the right place.
These ideas are designed to get you out of your comfort zone with challenges like the decades challenge or read around the world. But most importantly, make your reading life feel exciting again.
What is a reading challenge?
Before we jump into some fun reading challenge ideas, let’s talk about what a reading challenge actually is!
Basically, it’s a plan or goal for your reading, think themed prompts, finding books that match, and checking them off your list as you go.
It’s such a great way to shake things up and add some excitement to your reading routine!
Stuck in a genre rut? In a reading slump? Prompts can be the perfect way to get back into the groove and fall in love with reading all over again.
Classic reading challenge ideas to try this year
1. Read around the world
This challenge is all about exploring new cultures and stories through books! You pick titles set in different countries OR written by international authors, and it’s like taking a trip without leaving your cozy reading spot.
For a quick start, try some romance set in Ireland, a gripping thriller from Nigeria, or a heartwarming family drama from Brazil. It’s the ultimate travel vibe, no passport needed!
Books to start you off:
The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel
Set in the 1920’s in Ireland with rich historical details
The Legend of Sheba by Tosca Lee
A Bibical fiction which was probably set in modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia
2. Genre roulette
The Genre Roulette Challenge is such a fun way to mix up your reading habits. It’s usually for authors or creators looking to try something new, but honestly, it’s perfect for readers too!!
Each month, you dive into a new genre, such as fantasy, romance, sci-fi, or memoir. Toss it into an online randomizer, pop it in your TBR jar, or give each month its own genre plan.
It’s a fun way to keep things fresh and discover some surprising new favorites.
Books to start you off:
Wonderland Trials by Sara Ella
Alice in Wonderland retelling with some of the best games and twists
When The Day Comes by Gabrielle Meyer
Christian historical romance with a type of time travel mix that is so well done
3. 52 books in 52 weeks
The 52 Books in 52 Weeks challenge is such a cool way to stay consistent with your reading while keeping it manageable.
One book per week feels like a lot, but it’s still totally doable, and you can always tweak it to fit your schedule (because, hey, life gets busy!).
You should make a Goodreads shelf or use whatever you track your books with to get some ideas flowing!
That way, each week you’ll already have a list of books ready to pick from.
Books to start you off:
Magic Forged by K.M. Shea
Urban fantasy with witty banter, wizards, vampires, and a great storyline
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Must read historical romance that is a retelling of Gomer and Hosea
4. Decades challenge
The Decades Challenge is such a fun way to mix things up and explore books from way back when!
You pick a book from a set in each decade, like something from the 1890s, 1900s, 1910s, and so on.
The book doesn’t have to be published in that decade, just set in that time period.
I love historical reads, and this is such a fun challenge to dive into Victorian, Regency, 1920s, and more!
Books to start you off:
The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green
Set in the 1920’s it’s a perfect mix of glittering parties, romance, and of course secrets to uncover
An Improper Gentleman by Audra Wells
Cute Regency romance that has a rom-com feel with characters that have to grow a lot
5. # of books challenge
The # of books challenge is a lot like the Goodreads challenge. It’s all about setting a reading goal that pushes you just a little outside your comfort zone without feeling like too much.
Pick a number that feels exciting but manageable, whether it’s 12 books for the year (one a month) or something more ambitious.
I usually aim for 100 books a year, 8 per month feels just right for me, especially since I am a book blogger. I always read a book before bed, and no matter what I have an audiobook to listen to while folding laundry or commuting. It’s flexible but still keeps me reading consistently.
The idea is to keep it fun and motivating, so you’ve got a target to aim for while still giving yourself room to enjoy the process.
Books to start you off:
Tempest and Tea Leaves by Rachel Morgan
Cozy Historical fantasy with a magical sentient tea house, amazing side characters, and a swoony enemies to lovers romance
One Little Lie by Colleen Coble
Christian mystery suspense that will leave you on the edge of your seat and up until 2 am to finish (ask me how I know)
Unique book challenge ideas for adults
6. Big book challenge
The Big Book Challenge is perfect for anyone who loves getting lost in epic tales or timeless classics!
The goal? Read 5 chunky books, each packing over 500 pages.
It’s a great for fans of sprawling fantasy worlds or dense, thought-provoking literature. Think of it as an invitation to finally tackle those big-name novels sitting on your shelf (I’m looking at you, Les Misérables!)
Books to start you off:
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
Hugely popular classic sitting at 1456 pages or 65 hours and 41 minutes of listening time
Lord of the Rings by J.R. Tolkien
Classic fantasy with 1216 pages of amazing quests, adventure, and friendship
7. Backlist bingo
Backlist Bingo is here to help you finally tackle those books that have been sitting on your shelf forever; any book published last year or earlier totally counts.
I created my first bingo board two years ago when I realized my TBR was out of control, 128 unread books, to be exact. (Yikes.) It turned out to be the most fun, low-pressure way to actually read what I already owned.
The idea is simple: fill out a bingo card with those books you added to your TBR a long time ago and start crossing off squares as you go.
Books to start you off:
At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon
Christian classic perfect for book clubs with it’s cozy community feel and characters to fall in love with
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Classic Christian fantasy with deep allegories and of course magic and adventure
Pro tip: When you’re setting up these challenges, don’t forget to add a prize! Make it something bookish and fun to give yourself that extra push to dive into a book, especially if you’re in a reading slump.
8. Read everything by one author
This challenge is all about immersing yourself in the work of one author and really getting to know their storytelling, themes, and writing style.
Pick an author you’ve always wanted to explore or maybe one whose books have been collecting dust on your shelf. I did this challenge with K.M. Shea during my maternity leave when long nursing sessions gave me unexpected reading time. I loved every single one of her books!
It’s a great way to finally tick those off your TBR while also appreciating the depth and diversity of their writing!
Plus, it’s so satisfying to say you’ve read everything by a favorite author.
Books to start you off:
Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter
Bookish main character with a second chance romance
The Painter’s Daughter by Julie Klassen
Lovable characters with the marriage of convenience trope
9. Pair one non-fiction with one fiction monthly
You get the best of both worlds with this challenge! Diving into rich, imaginative stories while picking up cool facts or fresh perspectives from non-fiction.
I’m doing this challenge right now by mixing my usual fiction reads with some business and mom-life non-fiction gems!
It’s like giving your brain a little workout and a treat at the same time!
Two book pairs to kick things off:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Clear, easy to start tips and helped me start reading the Bible daily
Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson
Fun pirate adventure paired with a totally unique magic system AND a retelling of the Princess Bride
Mama Bear Apologetics by Hillary Morgan Ferrer
Must-read for every Christian mama wanting to raise strong kids
Authetnically, Izzy by Pepper Basham
Epistolary novel with hilarious banter and bookish characters
10. The bookshelf rainbow
This challenge is all about picking books with covers that match the colors of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
Not only is it a fun way to spice up your reading list, but it’s also totally Insta-worthy when you stack them together!
Planning your next read gets a little more creative, and by the end, you’ve got a colorful stack of stories to show off.
Books to start you off:
One Last Play by Annah Conwell
Age gap and reverse grumpy x sunshine tropes all set in sunny Alanta, Georgia
Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh
Grumpy x sunshine dynamic is so fun, and the road trip adds extra charm
11. Friend picks
This twist on the reading challenge lets you hand over the reins to someone else. Your friends, your librarian, or even your partner!
It’s a mix of heartwarming and chaotic, as you never know what they’ll pick for you.
Maybe it’s a genre you’ve never tried, an old favorite of theirs, or a total wildcard. Either way, it’s bound to be full of surprises and might just lead you to your next favorite book. I will be your first friend! Here are two recommendations.
Books to start you off:
This Present Darkness by Frank Peretti
Must read book that dives into the power of prayer and the unseen world of angels and demons
Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen
Mix of Jane Austen and Agatha Christie with the sweetest romance
Quick mini-challenges for busy readers
12. Novella reads
The novella reads challenge is perfect if you’re short on time or have a wandering attention span.
The idea is simple, finish one novella every weekend for a month.
With their shorter length, novellas pack a punch without feeling overwhelming, making it super satisfying to breeze through a complete story in just a couple of days.
Plus, there’s nothing like the sense of accomplishment that comes with ticking off those books one after another!
Books to start you off:
Badge of Hope by Jessica Ashley
You’ll fly through this in one sitting! If you’re into Christian romantic suspense, this one’s a must-read
The Cupcake Dilemma by Jennifer Rodewald
It’s light, it’s hilarious, and if you’re into baking, you’re going to love it even more
13. Seasonal TBR
The seasonal TBR challenge is hands down my favorite tradition every year!
It’s so fun to mix up the moods and settings with the changing seasons.
I like to theme my books to the seasons every year. Fall is for cozies and pumpkin spice vibes, and summer is for swoony romance I can toss in my beach tote.
Last winter, I even picked books with snowy settings to match the view outside my kitchen window.
There’s just something so satisfying about matching books to the vibes of the season. It makes reading feel even more special.
Books to start you off:
The Bookish Bandit by Britt Howard
Autumn vibes, swoony romance, and the best banter
A Soul as Cold as Frost by Jennifer Kropf
This one’s got all the cozy, winter vibes, think Narnia, Alice in Wonderland, and Spirited Away all rolled into one, but with a totally new twist
14. Spooky Season Stack
The spooky season book challenge prompt is like the ultimate October spin on the seasonal reads challenge.
It’s all about leaning fully into the creepy, gothic, or magical vibes!
Think haunted mansions, mysterious witches, eerie forests, and spine-tingling tales that keep you on edge.
It’s totally focused on capturing that Halloween energy, and honestly, some of these stories are so rich with atmosphere, they might even double as perfect inspiration for your next costume.
Books to start you off:
The House on Foster Hill by Jaime Jo Wright
Dual POV, a haunting setting, and writing so eerie it’ll have you glancing over your shoulder
Wishtress by Nadine Brandes
Cool magic systems and characters you can’t help but love
15. Bookstagram challenge
This is your chance to get super creative! Think flatlays, canva creations, reels, or more. It’s all about combining your love for books with your artistic flair!
I actually started my first Bookstagram during a naptime window. I shared a couple of quick photos of a book I had annotated, and honestly, it became one of my favorite ways to stay motivated.
Make a list of books you’ve been dying to read (perfect time to tackle that TBR pile) and start sharing on Instagram!
16. Participate in a book club
Book clubs are such a fun way to shake up your reading habits, especially when they push you to explore books you might not have picked up on your own.
The best part? You get to chat about them with others who’ve also just read them, which makes the whole experience even more rewarding.
I started The Cozy Escape Book Club after getting hundreds of emails from other women asking for sweet book recommendations! We’ve now read over 4 books together, and I love how it’s become a cozy corner for connection. We focus on clean reads you can actually finish with a busy schedule.
How to pick your reading goals (without stressing out)
Choosing a book challenge that fits your schedule and mood doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it’s all about keeping it fun and flexible.
Focus on the vibe you’re going for rather than pressuring yourself to hit an arbitrary number.
Whether you’re into tracking progress through a bullet journal, logging reads on Goodreads, or even using an old-school sticker chart, find a system that feels satisfying and motivating for you.
Don’t forget to celebrate milestones along the way!
Treat yourself to something small but special, like chocolate, a cute new bookmark, or that next book you’ve been eyeing.
Sharing your updates with friends, a book club (peek mine here!), or even on Instagram adds a social and interactive element, making the experience even more enjoyable and keeping you accountable.
FAQs about reading challenges
What is the best reading challenge for beginners?
The best reading challenge for beginners is one that’s simple and manageable. Start with a monthly “read one book” goal or try a challenge with broad categories, like “rainbow book challenge” or “backlist challenge.” The key is to keep it fun and pressure-free!
How do I stick to my reading goals year-round?
Consistency is key! Set aside a specific time each day, like 15 minutes before bed, to read. Break your goals into smaller, achievable milestones and celebrate your progress often. Joining a reading group or sharing your goals with friends can also help keep you motivated.
Can I mix different book challenge ideas in one year?
Absolutely! Combine different challenge ideas to match your reading interests. You could do a themed challenge, like tackling classics, alongside a genre-based one. Blending challenges keeps things exciting and allows for flexibility when choosing your reads.
Where can I find printable reading challenge trackers?
There are tons of resources online! Many blogs, Pinterest boards, and reading communities provide free, printable trackers you can use to map out your goals. Some book-themed planners or journals also include beautiful pre-made templates.
How can I join a reading challenge with friends or online?
Look for reading communities on platforms like Instagram, Goodreads, or Facebook, where challenges are often shared. You can also create your own group with friends to share updates and fun discussions as you go through the challenge together.
What should I do if I get stuck or fall behind on my challenge?
First off, don’t stress! Challenges are meant to inspire you, not add pressure. Take a break if you need one, or choose a lighter book to reignite your passion for reading. Remember, it’s okay to adjust your goals; reading should always be enjoyable!
Have you found the most fun book challenges for adults?
Whether you’re deep in a reading slump, juggling bedtime stories and laundry, or just craving a reason to read again, these challenges are here to help you fall back in love with books, one page at a time.
Reading challenges have kept me going through new babies, burnout, and the busiest seasons of life. They give you something to look forward to, even if it’s just ten quiet minutes before bed.
If you’re ready to kick off your next challenge, I’ve got a free gift for you, my A to Z Reading Challenge Pack. It’s the exact challenge I’ve used (and shared with thousands of readers) to rediscover joy in reading.
Inside, you’ll find:
- 3 Clean book recommendations for each letter of the alphabet
- A printable tracker to make progress feel extra satisfying
It’s built for real life and real moms. No pressure. Just pages that light you up again.
Download the A to Z Reading Challenge Pack here and let’s start turning pages, together.
