Long holiday weekends are ideal for squeezing in extra reading time. Get a head start on your book club reads this weekend. A few suggestions on how to get more pages out of your holiday.

1. Read outside. Something about reading outside when the weather cools (or mornings) before the rush of the day and the noise of the household nets me several more chapters than my usual reading spot. Only in this way am I “outdoorsy.”

2. Ssshhh. Speaking of noise, amazing how the sound of the dishwasher, tumbling dryer, TV chatter and quarreling kids can kill a good reading buzz. Try to find a quiet spot – I typically call our library (front room) our no-talk zone. There’s no door to shut, but the kids know if they step onto that leopard print carpet, their mouths better be closed and they better have a book in their hand.

3. Slip away. Family visiting this weekend? Same here. Some family want to talk you into the ground, but after awhile the convo spins wheels. That’s when I like to say – well, I better get some reading done. To me, reading is far less obnoxious than leaving the company to go watch the flat screen. And if they are watching a movie together, all the better for you to grab your book and curl up and read. And look damn literary in the process. Offer to make a Starbucks run! Only you sit and read for a half hour before bringing the drinks back to everyone.

4. Nighty-nighty, blow out the lighty. (except for your flashlight) Read for a half hour before you go to sleep. It helps rid your still-whirring brain from the day’s blech and because reading reduces stress, you’ll fall asleep better. If you’re reading a really good book, you may awake longer, but perhaps go to bed earlier with that in mind.

5. Never leave home without it. This reading principle applies every day, not just holidays. By keeping your book in your oversized bag or in your car, you can sneak in reading time wherever you go.

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