Reading Journal Setup For Beginners: My First Ever Book Journal Walkthrough
If you’ve been curious about starting a reading journal, especially one that’s aesthetic and beginner-friendly, you’re in the right place. I’m mixing my favorite things—bubble lettering, faux calligraphy, and cute doodles—to make this reading tracker something I actually look forward to filling out.
Today, I’m sharing something super special—my very first reading journal setup. As a mom, calligraphy lover, and new-ish bookworm, I wanted to create a cozy, creative space to track my 2025 reads.
🎯 Why I Started a Reading Journal
Last year, I really got into reading (hello romance and fantasy!). But this year, I wanted to document every book—not just the title, but also the progress, my thoughts, and the experience. That’s how my reading journal journey began.
✍️ Supplies I Used
📖 My Reading Journal Setup (Step-by-Step)
Let’s go page by page:
1. Cover Page
- “Reading” in bubble lettering 💚
- “Journal” in faux calligraphy 💗
- Cute open book doodle with florals 🌸
- Mistake moment: changed pink to rose red for better contrast (totally worth it!)
If you want to learn more about bubble lettering and faux calligraphy, be sure to check my easy-to-follow workbooks and video tutorials to help you!
2. Goals Page
- Set your yearly reading intentions!
- Example: I want to read more book series and try new authors and even different genres.
3. Book Goal Tracker
- I created 52 mini squares—one for each book I plan to read this year.
- Color-coded by month using a key with marker numbers. Tip: Write the marker number down—future you will thank you.
4. A to Z Reading Challenge
- Read a book starting with each letter of the alphabet. Fun + motivating!
5. Book Bingo
- A more interactive way to keep reading exciting.
- Categories like “Book with a map” or “New-to-me author.”
6. Book Series Tracker
- I created a Dutch door style spread so the title stays visible as you flip through.
- Some of the series I’m reading include Crescent City, ACOTAR, Imperium Series, Throne of Glass (obsessed!).
7. Bookshelf Spread
- Drawn books on shelves to color in as I read.
- Still debating how to color—by genre, star rating, or book cover. 🤔
8. Books Read
- I keep track of each book I read with title, author, and start/finish date.
9. TBR Recommendations & Monthly Reading Page
- A space for my ever-growing TBR list.
10. Book Reviews Pages
- Here’s where I’ll add more information about the books I’ll read.
💡 Lessons Learned
- Thin paper? Use colored pencils or glue an extra sheet behind your artwork.
- Plan your spreads, but don’t overthink—this journal is for you.
- Add personal touches! Lettering, colors, doodles… make it joyful.
💬 Want More Reading Journal Ideas?
Even though my YouTube channel is mainly about calligraphy, doodling, and lettering tutorials, I truly believe that creativity belongs in everything—even your reading log!
If you’d like to see monthly updates on how I’m filling out my reading journal, let me know in the comments!
And if this post inspired you, please:
- ✅ Share it on Pinterest
- 📥 Subscribe to my YouTube channel
- ❤️ Comment with your favorite book series or reading goal!
✨ Final Thoughts
Starting a reading journal doesn’t have to be complicated or fancy. Just start with what brings you joy—and maybe a couple of cute markers 😉. Whether you’re tracking 10 books or 52, you’re still building a creative habit that supports your love for stories.
Happy journaling, friend! 💕
