A Book a Week: Is It Worth It?

The idea of reading a book a week has gained traction in recent years, especially among readers looking to stay consistent, boost their personal development, or just escape into more stories. But is it worth it? Should you aim to finish 52 books a year?

Let’s break it down.

The Perks

Reading a book a week encourages discipline and makes reading a daily habit. Carving out time for just a few pages each day helps you step away from screens, decompress, and get lost in a world of words. Over the course of a year, you’ll likely read across genres, discover new authors, and build a broader literary palette. You’ll finish more books, which feels satisfying in a goal-driven kind of way.

For non-fiction lovers, this pace allows you to soak in new ideas and perspectives regularly. For fiction readers, it means more characters to meet, more stories to fall into, and more emotions to feel.

The Challenges

Of course, not every book is the same. A 300-page cozy mystery reads differently than a 700-page literary novel. Some books ask to be savored. Others drag and need patience. If you feel pressured to keep a pace that doesn’t feel natural, reading can quickly become a chore instead of a joy.

It’s also easy to slip into quantity over quality — rushing through books to hit a number rather than truly engaging with the book. And for those juggling work, family, and other hobbies (hello, puzzling!), a book a week might feel unrealistic.

Is It Worth It?

That depends on your “why.” If you love the structure of a reading goal and it motivates you — go for it! If you’re in a season where slow, meaningful reading is more your style, that’s equally valid. Reading is not a race.

So instead of focusing on speed, maybe aim for intentional reading. Read what you love. Take your time if you want to. And if you happen to read 52 books this year? Great. If not? You’re still a reader — and that’s what matters most.