Keep Track of Your Spring Reading
There’s nothing quite like springtime for us book lovers. The days are getting longer, the sun is shining just a little brighter, and the spring time birds are making nice music in the air. Relaxing with a good book is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the season. The Morning News 2025 Tournament of Books list is out, and it's my goal to read each of them this year.
Use Field Notes to Track Your Books and Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about physically jotting down your thoughts. Sure, digital apps are convenient, but nothing beats the tactile act of putting pen to paper. With Field Notes, you can effortlessly keep a record of every book you devour. Here’s how I like to use mine:
- Write down your reading list at the beginning of the season. It’s like creating a little contract with yourself, full of ambition.
- Log your thoughts as you read. Favorite quotes? Awesome plot twists? Totally confusing chapters? Scribble it all down.
- Review what you read at the end of each book. Did it live up to the hype? Was it a DNF (did not finish)? Give it some stars (because stars make everything better). The Field Notes Index edition is perfect for reviewing.
Field Notes notebooks are the perfect size for sliding into a tote bag or leaving on a cluttered nightstand. Plus, they look oh-so-aesthetic when stacked with your favorite coffee mug on Instagram.
Build a Stellar Reading List
Speaking of spring reads, have you started prepping for the Tournament of Books? This year’s selection is bound to be full of surprises, under-the-radar gems, and powerhouse titles. Whether it’s your first tournament or you’re a seasoned pro, having a dedicated Field Notes notebook on hand to track your thoughts might just up your game.
Need inspiration? You can always check out a local indie bookstore like Novel HeARTs in Versailles, Indiana! They not only have new titles and "gently loved" books, but they’re also offering free shipping on orders $14+ with code FREESHIP through March 15. (Seriously, free shipping AND supporting a small business? That’s a win-win!)
Why Shop Small for Books?
Shopping small is a trend I think we can all get behind. Not only do local bookstores like Novel HeARTs support their communities, but they often carry unique finds and books that big sellers may overlook. Plus, their collections are curated by people who really know their books. It’s just a different experience browsing shelves that have been lovingly stocked to spark joy for book enthusiasts.
Frankly, an indie bookshop has vibes you just don’t get from a superstore click-a-thon.
Find Your Tribe
Here’s the thing about being a book lover that I’ve learned over the years—you’re never really on your own. There are others like you out there. Field Notes collectors scribbling their way through piles of novels. Book enthusiasts debating which 2025 Tournament of Books finalists will take home the top prize.
Spring is the perfect season to embrace this sense of community. Have you shared your reading list with a friend? Joined a book club to discuss your latest read? There’s an unspoken joy in connecting with fellow readers, swapping notes, and maybe even discovering your next favorite read.
A Few Final Thoughts
Before you pick up that next novel or decide which Field Notes design to grab (if you haven’t already fallen down the limited-edition rabbit hole), don’t forget the small details. Spring reading isn’t just about the books. It’s about the moments you create with them. It’s that first deep paragraph read while sipping coffee, the way the sunlight hits the pages as you flip them, and the pride you’ll feel filling up your notebook with insights, reflections, and must-revisit quotes.
Oh, and if you’re looking to spruce up your spring reading toolkit, I can’t recommend Field Notes enough. Combine that with a trip (or click) over to Novel HeARTs, and you’ll feel like a literary superhero.
Now, go forth. Jot it down. Read everything. And, support small booksellers while you’re at it.