Between school drop-offs, diaper changes, commutes, and trying to throw together something for dinner that isn’t just girl dinner on repeat (no shame in a well-picked fridge-raid charcuterie), it’s hard to find time to read—let alone read two books at once.
I used to think squeezing in one book a month was a big win (and honestly, it is). But once I found my rhythm, I realized I could comfortably juggle two books at a time and finish four books a month—without feeling overwhelmed. Instead, I felt like I was finally in my reading groove.
The secret?
Use multiple formats—and a wee bit of strategy—for a big payoff.
By choosing books in different formats and slotting them into your daily routine, you’ll fly through your TBR faster than your toddler can unroll an entire roll of toilet paper.
#1 Choose Two Book Formats That Fit Your Life
It starts with figuring out how you’re going to consume your books. Are you all about your Kindle? Do you vibe with audiobooks while you’re on the go? Or do you prefer the feel of a physical book in your hands?
Here’s the magic: if you can get comfy using two different reading formats, it’s so much easier to juggle more than one book. Some of my favorite combos:
- Kindle + Audiobook
- Print + eBook
- Audiobook + Print
Mixing it up keeps things fresh and makes it easier to fit reading into your life, not the other way around. It’s one of the top benefits of reading more than one book at a time.
#2 Designate One Book for On-the-Go Moments
We all have those chaotic, in-between moments—this is where audiobook and Kindle reading habits really shine.
- Chopping veggies for dinner? Pop in your airpods.
- Folding laundry? Perfect time to squeeze in a chapter.
- Taking the baby on a walk? Queue up that streaming service. (Or, you know, take a breather and soak up the outdoors while your tiny human babbles away. Those moments are way too sweet to miss.)
This week alone, I listened to my audiobook while showering, on the way home from school drop-off, during lunch prep, and—of course—while folding endless baby laundry (does it ever really end?!).
Bam. That’s 1.5 extra hours of reading while still (mostly) keeping my life together.
#3 Save One Book for Quiet, Focused “Me” Time
When the house is quiet (finally), and you’ve got a few precious minutes—grab your second book. Whether it’s on your Kindle, a paperback, or even your phone, make this your moment to truly sink in.
Lately, I’ve been reading via the Kindle app on my phone while doing these low-energy tasks:
- Nursing (a gold mine for Kindle reading, IMO)
- Brushing my teeth
- Using the little lady’s room
- In between meetings while my mini me is practicing tu
It’s quick, it’s seamless, and it adds up fast.
#4 Use Different Genres to Keep Things Interesting
Reading two books in the same genre? Could be amazing. But it’s also easy to burn out or mix up characters or plot points. (I’ve confused MMCs more times than I care to admit.)
Instead, try choosing different genres across formats. For example:
- Audiobook: a cozy fantasy or spicy rom-com
- Kindle: thriller, autobiograhy, or historical fiction
This trick keeps your stories straight, and your interest piqued. One of my favorite ways to organize your current reads is by assigning each genre its own format.
For me, it looks like this:
- Contemporary romances: They’re easy for me to follow along via audiobook.
- Psych thrillers: I have a seemingly endless stack on my bookshelf to devour at any (relaxing) moment.
- Romantasy: I’ll take those however I can get them, but preferably on Kindle.
#5 Give Yourself Permission to Pause or Switch
Not loving a book? It’s okay. Put it down. Try another. You’re not in a contract.
If you’re not gelling, don’t force it. There’s no shame in setting something aside and choosing a new read that better fits your mood (or your capacity).
It’s all part of how to organize your current reads and keep your reading life feeling fun, not forced. Because it’s all about enjoying the ride as the passenger princess.
Amiright?
So, what’s riding shotgun on your reading list?
If you’ve been stuck in a one (or no) book rut, now’s your time to try something new.
Reading two books at once—especially in different formats—is one of the best-kept secrets for busy moms who still crave stories. You’re not just surviving the day; you’re thriving through it, one chapter at a time.
So, what two books are you starting with? Drop your current reads in the comments so we can obsess together!
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