Reading is one of the best low-effort activities you can do while on chemo!

Some helpful tips:

Choose a comfortable setting
– Find a cozy spot with good lighting and comfortable seating to make reading more enjoyable. If you’re at the hospital, ask for an extra pillow if it will make you more comfortable.

Pick engaging books
– Select books that capture your interest and keep you engaged. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery, romance, or science fiction, choose genres that you already love or might seem interesting.

Set small goals
– Start with short reading sessions, like 15-20 minutes, and gradually increase the time if you feel comfortable.
– Set achievable goals, such as finishing a chapter or reading a few pages each day.

Use e-readers and audiobooks
– E-readers can be more convenient than physical books, as you can adjust the text size and brightness.
– Audiobooks are a great alternative if you’re feeling too tired to read. They can help you enjoy stories while resting your eyes.

Create a reading routine
– Incorporate reading into your daily routine. It can be a soothing activity before bed or a way to pass time during treatment sessions.

Take breaks
– Listen to your body and take breaks as needed. If you start feeling tired or your eyes feel strained, put the book down and rest.

Keep a variety of books
– Have a mix of different types of books on hand. Sometimes you might be in the mood for a light read, and other times you might want something more substantial.

Stay hydrated and comfortable
– Keep a bottle of water and snacks nearby to stay hydrated and comfortable while reading!

Here are some book recs based on genre:

Fantasy and Adventure

  • Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
  • Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
  • The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

Science Fiction and Dystopian

  • The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Divergent by Veronica Roth
  • Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card

Mystery and Thriller

  • One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
  • Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
  • A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro

Romance and Coming-of-Age

  • To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
  • Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Graphic Novels and Comics

  • Ms. Marvel by G. Willow Wilson
  • The Runaways by Brian K. Vaughan
  • Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi

Inspirational and Non-Fiction

  • The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
  • I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
  • Hidden Figures (Young Readers’ Edition) by Margot Lee Shetterly

Some more tips:

Relax and enjoy: Reading should be a pleasurable activity, not a chore. Choose books that make you happy and relaxed.

Talk about what you read: Share your thoughts about the books with friends, family, or online communities. It can be fun and enriching to discuss stories and characters with others.

The library and online resources: Make use of your local library or online resources for a wide range of books and audiobooks. Many libraries offer digital lending services.

Reading can be an amazing escape and a way to pass the time while going through chemo. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in different worlds, learn new things, and take a break from the current challenges you’re facing.