Prescription for a Book Slump
Have you ever read a fantastic book and struggled to return to your reality afterward because you could not stop thinking about said book? You may think this is an awesome problem. The book world captivated your attention. You didn’t want to leave. It’s an author’s dream, but a reader’s worst nightmare. A condition that is called a book slump.
Symptoms include being unable to pick your next read and spending hours scouring the internet for related content. Examples of content that may feed your addiction are fanart, groups on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, which focus on books.
Fanfiction can help you stay in your favorite fictional places for a little while longer. Be careful not to confuse the plots of various fanfictions with the original story, especially if the book is part of a series.
Other Treatments to Consider
Read Another Book by the Author.
Unless it’s an author’s debut novel, you can find something else that the author has written. For debut authors, check if they have recommendations. Authors are often influenced by their favorite books, so they may contain a similar theme to those you love.
Read a Completely Different Genre
Sometimes a palate cleanser is all you need. If the book you finished is a fantasy romance, try a thriller or a mystery. You may discover a new genre you enjoy.
Read the Book Again
Sometimes you have to give in and start the book again. My favorite things about rereading the book again is discovering all of the minor details missed in anticipation of what happens next.
Another way to enhance the experience is to change how you read the book. For example, if you first read the physical copy/ebook, listen to the audiobook to give yourself a fresh experience.
Books teach us about the world and are there for our enjoyment. However, it’s okay to take a break and do something else. Books will always wait for you to return.