9 Tips on Finishing a Book You Don't Love

It doesn't matter if it is a national bestseller, a book club monthly pick, or a trusted recommendation—there are always books that you are going to struggle to finish. While the internet book community may be embracing the idea that "life is too short to read bad books," there are times when choosing to DNF (Did Not Finish) isn't an option.

Luckily for those on the reading struggle bus, there are a few tips and tricks to help you make it to the end of your book. Moreover, you will make it to the end and be able to answer any related question that comes your way or participate in a bookish discussion on the subject. With this list of tips, you won't have to worry about whether or not your required reading passes the vibe check because you'll be able to power through.
 

Listen to the Audiobook 

Get someone else to read the book for you, or at least to you. An audiobook narrator can make even the most boring of text come alive. Some audiobook productions add sound effects and music to add to the ambiance. Audiobooks are available online, from your public library, and sometimes free on streaming services, making them easily accessible.

Take a Break 

Reading fatigue is real, especially when trying to slog through something uninteresting. So, take a break, change your reading environment, and grab a treat as a reward. Then, start again. Set a timer for your reading times and break times if that will help you stay on task.

Create a Reading Schedule 

If something is overwhelming, break it down into smaller pieces. Add reading to your to-do list. Be specific about how many chapters you need to read or how long it will take you to reach the end of the book. Not only will this make reading the book less daunting and more digestible, but you'll also get the satisfaction of crossing it off your to-do list every day.

Don’t Read in Bed 

Boring books put you to sleep. But reading boring books in bed might be counterproductive. Sure, you'll fall asleep faster, but will you remember what you read in 

the morning? You don't want to have to re-read a chapter. Instead, find a spot with plenty of light that is just comfortable enough to read but not enough to sleep.

Read on an E-Reader 

Boring books put you to sleep. But reading boring books in bed might be counterproductive. Sure, you'll fall asleep faster, but will you remember what you read in the morning? You don't want to have to re-read a chapter. Instead, find a spot with plenty of light that is just comfortable enough to read but not enough to sleep.

Read the Ending 

Some readers admit to reading the last few sentences of a book before they decide whether to read it or not. This could help you make it through a book you aren't feeling. If you understand where the book will go, you'll be curious about how it gets there. Knowing the end will help push you through the rough patches. It's not cheating if you read the book.

Consider Your Investment 

You already spent the money. Books aren't the cheapest investment, so you might as well get your money's worth. Even if the story isn't hitting the mark, reading it is better than being out the money and not knowing what happens. Just don't invest too much valuable shelf space for books you don't love.

Complain About the Book 

Vent to a friend. Find online discussions about it. Write a blog or review about it without posting. Just find a way to complain about the book. Venting reading frustrations can be therapeutic and help you push through the worst parts of the book. It can also be validating to know that you aren't the only one who doesn't enjoy it.

FOMO

Use the fear of missing out to your advantage. See what all the hype is about. Why do people love this book? Watch positive reviews of the book. Ask people why they recommend it. Get excited to join the conversation. Even if you don't care for a book, accurately explaining why you don't love the book only comes with reading to the end.

Try these tips next time you read a book that isn't drawing you in, but DNF-ing isn't an option. Reading is about the journey. Even if the book is a slog, getting to the end is worth it  - even if you read the end first.