Why May is the Perfect Month to Rediscover the Joy of Books
May is officially Get Caught Reading Month—a nationwide campaign that encourages people of all ages to embrace the joy of reading. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or someone looking to reignite your reading habit, this is the perfect time to get cozy with a good book… and maybe even snap a picture while you’re at it.
What is Get Caught Reading Month?
Launched in 1999 by the Association of American Publishers, Get Caught Reading was created to promote literacy and the simple pleasure of reading for enjoyment. Over the years, the campaign has attracted the support of educators, libraries, authors, and celebrities who’ve all been “caught” reading in public service announcements and promotional materials.
The beauty of the campaign lies in its simplicity: reading is something we can all do—anywhere, anytime. And when others see you reading, it sends a subtle yet powerful message that books matter. It's a reminder that stories still have the power to captivate, connect, and comfort us.
Finding Time to Read in a Busy Life
We all know the feeling—there’s a new book on your shelf (or in your digital library), and you just can’t seem to find time to crack it open. Life is full, schedules are packed, and downtime feels like a luxury. But the truth is, carving out just a few minutes a day for reading can make a big difference.
Here are a few simple ways to squeeze more reading into your day:
- Start with 10 minutes – Keep a book by your bed or your favorite chair and commit to reading just 10 minutes a day. It adds up fast!
- Replace one screen session – Swap 15 minutes of scrolling social media or watching TV for reading instead.
- Keep a book with you – Whether it's a paperback in your bag or an e-reader app on your phone, you'll always be ready for those little windows of unexpected downtime.
- Read during transitions – Waiting in line? Arrived early for an appointment? Those idle moments are perfect for sneaking in a few pages.
- Listen to audiobooks – If reading with your eyes is tough to schedule, audiobooks let you "read" while commuting, walking, or folding laundry.
The goal isn’t to race through books—it’s to make reading part of your everyday routine, however that looks for you.
The Surprising Benefits of Daily Reading
Reading is more than just a leisure activity; it’s a powerful tool for personal growth, stress relief, and cognitive health. Here are just a few of the proven benefits of reading regularly:
- Reduced stress – Just six minutes of reading can lower stress levels by up to 68%, according to a study by the University of Sussex.
- Improved focus and memory – Reading strengthens neural connections in the brain, boosting concentration and retention.
- Better sleep – A bedtime reading ritual (ideally with a print book) can signal your body to wind down and improve sleep quality.
- Expanded empathy and perspective – Fiction, in particular, allows us to step into another person’s world, expanding our emotional intelligence.
- Lifelong learning – Whether you're reading fiction, nonfiction, or even cookbooks, every book offers the chance to learn something new.
So, if you're looking for a simple habit that offers big benefits, reading is an excellent place to start.
Show Us Where You’re Reading!
This May, I’m inviting you to join the fun. Wherever you are—at the beach, in a coffee shop, curled up on your porch—snap a picture of yourself “caught reading” and share it with me! Bonus points if you're reading one of my books. 📚💕
Email your photos or tag me on social media using the hashtag #GetCaughtReading and/or #GetCaughtReadingWithMaddie. You can also comment on this blog post. I’ll be featuring some of my favorite photos on the blog and social channels throughout the month. Let’s celebrate the power of stories, reading, and the joy of getting lost in a good book.
Happy reading—and don’t be surprised if someone catches you in the act! Oh look! Like this guy!
