Is A Large TBR Really Right for Every Reader?
If you enter the home of a bibliophile, you may find yourself face-to-face with fully loaded bookcases, and potentially even piles of books in every corner. Far from simply making the place look great (although they certainly do that), these books form what’s known as a TBR, or a ‘to be read’ pile.
Many readers enjoy having a sizable TBR in their homes. There’s certainly something wonderful about browsing your own shelves to find your next exciting read. But is a lengthy TBR really right for every reader? Absolutely not.
For some people, the sheer choice, or the ongoing pressure of a long TBR could actually hinder reading enthusiasm. Keep on reading to discover some sure signs that you might actually be best off keeping your TBR short and satisfyingly snappy.
# 1 – You Have Limited Space at Home
If you’re living in a one-bed apartment, or are trying to fit your love for reading around family life, then having too many books is both impractical and potentially infuriating. And, you won’t exactly feel like reading your books when you’re raging about the space they require.
This doesn’t mean you can’t have a book collection, but it is a sign that you’ll want to limit numbers. You could do this by implementing a few basic rules, such as only keeping favorite books you’ll definitely re-read, or even having a one-in-one-out policy to prevent those piles from growing.
# 2 – You Always Read New Books First
You may also be better off with a shorter TBR if you’re in the habit of reaching for new books rather than the older ones on your shelves. This is a common problem, but if you can never quite feel enthusiastic enough about your older books to actually get to them, then why keep them around?
It’s especially worth paying attention to whether reading those older books tends to leave you in a reading slump. Stripping back your TBR in this instance brings the benefit of ensuring that you’re actually passionate about all of the books you have on your wait-list. And that could prove transformative to your reading journey.
# 3 – You Prefer Real-Time Recommendations
Book recommendations provide a fantastic way to find your next best read, but they also tend to be relevant for a short period of time. After all, no one wants to talk about books that are either old or unlikely to capture their audiences. Instead, book recommendations tend to revolve around books based on trending authors, or even wider cultural phenomena. For instance, right now, recommendations might center around questions like ‘Which Stranger Things character are you?’
Read for Joy, Not Just to Clear Lists
Large TBR lists work beautifully for organized readers who thrive on structure and goals. The lists provide clear direction. The tracking satisfies completionist tendencies. The variety ensures appropriate books exist for every mood. These readers genuinely love their extensive lists and use them effectively without stress or guilt. The system serves them rather than controlling them.
Small curated TBR approaches suit readers who prefer spontaneity and flexibility. The shorter lists reduce decision fatigue. The freedom to read on whim preserves joy. The lack of obligation prevents reading from becoming a chore. These readers maintain their passion through rejecting systems that would transform pleasure into pressure. Their smaller lists serve them perfectly.
The right TBR size matches individual personality and reading goals rather than book community norms. Some readers need extensive lists. Others thrive with minimal tracking. Many fall somewhere between extremes. The question isn’t whether large TBRs are right or wrong but whether your TBR serves your actual reading life. Lists should enhance enjoyment rather than creating anxiety. When the TBR becomes a burden instead of resource, something needs changing. Sometimes the bravest reader choice involves admitting that what works for the book community doesn’t work for you personally.
