I’ve always loved to read. Good thing, too: I ended up majoring in English in college and later writing novels, so reading became both a passion and profession. But during the parenting-of-young-children years, most of my reading took place when I was dog-tired: bedtime stories with my kids (and sometimes nodding off mid-sentence, only to hear a small voice chirp, “Daddy, why are you saying funny words?”) or a few pages before falling asleep myself. More often than not, I’d wake up with a book sprawled across my face. 

After I joined The Move Makers—and after many occasions of packing boxes and boxes of books—I realized it was time to cull my own unwieldy collection. Letting go of my books was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done! But when my youngest son headed off to college, the timing felt right. I no longer had to read at bedtime (mine or my children’s). With my shelves finally streamlined, I decided to create something I’d always wanted: a dedicated reading nook. 

Here’s how to make it happen: 

● Choose the Right Spot: Most of our family’s books live on basement shelves, but I didn’t want to be secluded down there. I wanted a room with a view. I scouted out a comfy chair in the living room and set to work. 

● Light It Well and Stay Organized: During the day, big windows filled the room with natural light. For evenings, I added a standing lamp with a warm, golden bulb. A small side table with a drawer gave me a spot for pens, notepaper, glasses, and charging cords. An open shelf underneath held the books and magazines I was currently reading, plus my diary and journals. 

● Add Comforting Extras: By the chair, I placed a basket for rolled-up blankets on chilly mornings. A couple of cozy pillows made the chair even more inviting, and a footstool turned it into the perfect lounging spot. A friend even gifted me a little stand for my tea mug—a small touch that makes a big difference. 

Now I have a place where I can truly unwind. My reading nook is more than just a seat: it’s a signal. When I settle in, my mind knows it’s time to slow down and read. I pour myself a cup of tea, silence my phone, and dive into my latest novel, memoir, or—currently—a stack of travel guidebooks. (My wife and I are planning an “empty nesters” trip, and I want to soak up as much as I can about our destinations.) 

In a world that moves so fast, creating this little corner has brought me real peace and joy. Decluttering my shelves didn’t just free up space: it gave me room to dream, to rest, and to remind myself why I love reading in the first place. If you’re a book lover, I highly encourage you to do the same: claim a space, pare down to the stories you truly cherish, and let your nook become a haven of calm. It’ll do you a world of good.