My love for reading is a cherished legacy, passed down from my parents. Ever since a young age, my nose was always in a book — often for far too long, far too late, under a sheet with a flashlight in hand. Growing up, being glued to the TV was not an option for us on weeknights, which encouraged my siblings and I to find new forms of entertainment. Watching my parents’ routines as avid readers led me to pick up one book after another — and to this day, I’d still always choose a good novel over a TV show. I love to immerse myself in unique story lines and feel that sense of attachment to the characters. When the dinnertime conversations turn to Netflix, I may not be one who can contribute much — but if you ask me my favorite book, get ready for one long conversation.

Reading is such an important part of my daily routine, and today I am excited to share with you how I create a perfect reading environment, as well as round up some of my favorite AKD Book Club reads for you.

Whether you’re looking for an imaginative and relaxing escape after a long, hectic day or trying to find some time to carve out for you, my top-of-the-list recommendation is incorporating reading into your routine. Growing up in a busy and bustling household with six kids, endless activities, and constant family gatherings, reading became the time when it felt like I had the whole world to myself. I’ve carried this habit with me my entire life and it always adds joy and comfort to my day. 

Tips for Designing a Cozy Reading Corner

My nighttime routine is essential for winding down after a busy day, and my surroundings make such an impact on my mood and ability to take a deep breath and relax. Below are some of my favorite tips for designing a space that allows you to unwind as you pick up a wonderful book. 

Choose a space that allows for peace and quiet. 

My number one tip is to be thoughtful about where you decide to dive into your book every day or night. Find a space in your home that won’t have people running in and out, distracting you from the pages in front of you. Part of the magic of reading is really immersing yourself in the pages. Choose a formal living room, a bedroom, or an office space that allows you to close the door and relax your mind. 

My personal space of choice is my bedroom, where I can cozy up and unwind before dozing off each night.

Keep lighting top of mind. 

Proper lighting is essential for you to be able to read comfortably and avoid eyestrain, while keeping the light at a level that creates a relaxing ambiance. For me, a beautiful table lamp with a dimmer is a must. For more tips on transforming your home with lighting, head here for my entire guide to selecting the perfect “jewelry of the home.”

Create a mood with texture. 

Nothing says cozy like beautiful, rich layers of fabrics and throw pillows. If your bedroom is your cozy reading corner of choice, consider investing in an upholstered headboard that creates a luxe resting spot for your head, and layer your bed with beautiful and practical throw pillows, perfect for propping yourself up as you tuck into bed and grab your book.

If a formal living room or office is your designated reading space, consider investing in a comfortable chaise or chair with an ottoman; a textural and rich throw blanket and a few lumbar pillows for support. 

Place a side table within arm’s reach.

The key to the coziest space imaginable: a glass of red wine… 

All jokes aside, having a side table with your favorite reading essentials — whether that’s your book of the month or a Kindle and your readers or blue tech glasses — helps to keep your space feeling intentional and functional. You’ll find my side table stocked with my Kindle, readers, and a steaming cup of hot tea. 

Top Reads from My AKD Book Club 

Now that we’ve created the perfect reading spot, all you need is a great book. As I said, I love to talk books, so I’m excited to share with you some of my favorites from the past few years. Here’s my AKD book club greatest hits album: 

• A Fine Balance: Set in the US in 1975 during a State of Emergency, the book follows four strangers with incredible stories who are forced together to share one small apartment, kicking off a novel that explores distrust, friendship and love.

• The Great Believers:  This page-turning, riveting story unpacks the AIDS crisis, interweaving two incredible stories of the main characters and how their lives were impacted by the crisis.

• Daisy Jones and the Six: This story stitches together fictional interviews and realistic characters that make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the world of rock n roll. I wouldn’t typically find myself reaching for a fictional book about a ’70s rock band, but I was immediately immersed. It’s so realistic, you’ll wonder if Daisy Jones & the Six was actually real.  

• The Dutch House: A New York Times bestseller set in the time period after WWII, this story unpacks the bond between two siblings, exploring the stages of love, forgiveness and acceptance in a page-turning, dark fairy tale.

• The Giver of Stars: Written by the author of Me Before You, this story takes place in Depression-era America and explores five extraordinary women’s remarkable journeys through the mountains of Kentucky as they set out to deliver books as part of Eleanor Roosevelt’s new traveling library.

• The Silent Patient: This thrilling and suspenseful story unpacks a woman’s act of violence against her husband and her therapist’s obsession with uncovering her motive.

• The One in a Million Boy: This heartfelt novel full of love and loss documents a 104-woman and the family who cares for her. Grab your box of tissues for this one — it’s powerful and full of emotional resonance; totally worth the tears. 

• Dopesick: This AKD Book Club pick is a bit different than most, but incredibly eye-opening. It explores America’s opioid epidemic, perfectly interweaving stories of communities in crisis while spotlighting the role of corporate greed.

• Where the Crawdads Sing: There is a reason you’ve heard everyone talking about this one: it is deep and beautiful, such a powerful page-turner. The novel is a coming-of-age story that explores the power of nature and the possibility of murder — you won’t want to put it down.  

• The Hearts Invisible Furies: Taking place in post-war Ireland, this transcendent story shares the redemptive power of the human spirit, following the lead character’s transformative journey. 

In my grade school years, I couldn’t wait to hop off the bus, run indoors, and bury my nose in my book; and I can safely say, once the kids are in bed and work is wrapped up, I get that same thrill as I crawl in bed and open up a new book. Over the past thirty years, I can’t recall a day where I didn’t flip open a book, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I hope you enjoyed today’s reading roundup and found some inspiration to add reading to your routine.