Weird Bookish Habits Only Readers Understand

Let’s be honest—being a book lover comes with its quirks. Whether it’s re-reading that one perfect passage for the tenth time or hoarding multiple copies of the same book, we readers have our own delightful habits that make sense only to us. If you find yourself nodding along to this list, welcome to the club!

1. Owning Multiple Editions of the Same Book

Who needs one copy of Pride and Prejudice when you can have five? Hardcover, paperback, collector’s edition, or the one with that gorgeous cover art—every version feels like a new treasure.

Relatable Thought: “But this one has sprayed edges!”

2. Re-Reading Favorite Passages

You know the moment: you flip back to that scene, savor it again, and feel all the emotions rush back. The rest of the book can wait; you’re busy basking in the beauty of those perfect words.

Quirky Example: That one paragraph in The Night Circus you could recite in your sleep.

3. Sniffing Books

New books. Old books. It doesn’t matter—they all have a smell that’s uniquely comforting. Is it weird to stick your nose in a book and take a deep breath? Maybe. Do we care? Absolutely not.

Reader Logic: “This smells like happiness.”

4. TBR Piles Taller Than You

You know you’ll never finish them all, but that won’t stop you from buying more. Every trip to the bookstore is like adopting a new friend for your ever-growing family of unread books.

Justification: “Books are cheaper than therapy.”

5. Judging People by Their Bookshelves

When you visit someone’s house, their bookshelves are the first thing you look at. You can tell so much about a person based on their book collection—or lack thereof.

Thought Process: “No books? Who even are you?”

6. Bookmark Hoarding

Do you use receipts, scraps of paper, or actual bookmarks? And if you do use bookmarks, how many do you own? If your answer is “too many,” congratulations—you’re officially one of us.

Confession: “I have more bookmarks than books.”

7. Talking About Fictional Characters Like They’re Real

When your favorite character does something heroic—or heartbreaking—you need to discuss it. Preferably in great detail. With someone who understands that they’re real in your heart.

Example: “I can’t believe what Kaz Brekker just did. Iconic!”

8. Getting Emotional Over Bookstore Displays

A perfectly curated shelf or a cozy reading nook in a bookstore can bring actual tears to your eyes. It’s art, really.

Typical Reaction: “I could live here forever.”

9. Having a ‘Bookstagram’ Folder in Your Phone Gallery

Whether it’s a cozy flat lay or a candid shot of your current read by the window, you can’t resist taking pictures of your books. Bonus points if there’s coffee or a candle in the frame.

Caption Idea: “Currently reading… forever.”

10. Fiercely Protecting Your Annotated Books

You’ve poured your heart into those highlights and notes, and no one is allowed to touch them. Lending it out? Not a chance.

Protective Energy: “This is not just a book; it’s my soul.”

Closing Thoughts

Being a reader is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle full of quirks, habits, and undeniable charm. What’s your weirdest bookish habit? Share it in the comments.