By Jen Craven
There are casual readers… and then there are bookworms—the folks who never leave home without a novel, think of characters as real people, and may or may not have a “just in case” backup book in their car. If that sounds like you, welcome to the club.
Here are 10 telltale signs you’re a true bookworm—and you’re damn proud of it.
1. You Smell Your Books
Let’s just get this one out of the way. Yes, we know it’s weird to non-readers. But there’s something magical about the scent of freshly printed pages or a well-loved paperback. It’s practically aromatherapy. And believe it or not, some people prefer the smell of OLD books. Yes, those second-hand, been-read-multiple-times books. Might not be the scent of a brand-new, hot-off-the-press book, but that worn, papery smell is still there.
2. You’ve Said “Just One More Chapter”… and Looked Up Three Hours Later
You were going to be responsible. You had plans. But then the plot twisted, your heart raced, and next thing you know, it’s midnight and you’re emotionally invested in fictional people again. Damn! Don’t worry, we’ve all been there, done that…more than once.
3. You Bring a Book Everywhere—Even If You Don’t Have Time to Read
This is a no-brainer. In fact, it’s weird NOT to bring a book with you. To the doctor’s office. On the bus. To your kid’s soccer practice. There’s a strange sense of security in having a book nearby. Just in case. You might not even read a single page, but GOD FORBID you were stuck somewhere without a book.
4. You Have More Books Than Shelf Space
You told yourself you’d get things under control. Maybe even start a book-buying ban. But then you saw that cover. Or read that synopsis. Oops. Now you have books on your end table, beside your bed, stacked on the floor… Don’t even get us started on e-books and audio. That’s a whole other conversation. But at least with those, it’s out of sight, out of mind…right?
5. You’ve Felt Book Hangovers
The ache you feel when you finish a truly great book and nothing else feels quite right afterward? That’s a book hangover—and only time (or a five-star read) can heal it. For some of us, we can’t even start another book right away, that’s how bad the hangover is. We get it… you need time.
6. You Have Strong Opinions on Book-to-Screen Adaptations
And you’re not afraid to share them. Whether it’s joy (The Queen’s Gambit, anyone?) or outrage (don’t even get me started on that ending change), adaptations are serious business. You either love it or hate it, and there’s no in-between. Watching the film/show before reading the book? GASP! That’s nearly sacreligious.
7. You’ve “Read” Books You Have Never Even Touched
Because listening to audiobooks while folding laundry or on a long drive absolutely counts. Fight me.
8. You Love a Good Library or Bookstore Stroll—Even If You Leave Empty-Handed
How do you always end up in a bookstore? It’s like your feet magically take you there. And truly, there’s no place else you’d rather be. (Though let’s be honest, do you ever really leave empty-handed?)
9. You Get a Thrill From Matching Your Bookmark to the Book
Or organizing your TBR by vibe. Or tracking your reading in a spreadsheet. Bookworming is an aesthetic and we own it. Outsiders won’t get it…and that’s okay. Because the joy comes from within, not from others understanding.
10. You Connect With Other Readers Instantly
Whether it’s a stranger on a plane reading your favorite novel, or a friend who shares your obsession with a particular author, bookworms have a way of finding each other. And when we do? We talk. I mean, is there anything better than gushing over a book you both loved? Or trashing one you hated? If talking about books was an Olympic sport, you’d have a gold freaking medal.
Own It, Bookworm
Being a reader isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life. It’s how we escape, grow, process, and find connection. So go ahead, proudly carry that overstuffed tote bag. Sniff that book. Cry over fictional heartbreak. You’re in good company.
