Level Up Your Reading: 5 Fun Fiction Challenges to Spice Up Your TBR!

I’m part of a group of authors who have banded together for a Christian Fiction Reading Challenge this year. You can learn all about it here: https://christianfictionreadingchallenge.com/, and we’d love to have you join us if you haven’t already. Being part of this group has me thinking about reading challenges and how much fun they can be.

Maybe you’re looking for a fresh way to tackle your TBR pile. Here are five creative fiction reading challenges—from genre hopping to time traveling—that make reading fun again.

If your TBR (to-be-read) pile looks like a skyscraper and your reading motivation feels like a puddle, it’s time to shake things up with a fiction reading challenge! These challenges aren’t just about finishing books—they’re about adding a dash of adventure to your literary life. Ready to play? Here are some creative ideas to get you started:

1. The Genre Hop

Ever feel stuck in a rut reading the same type of story? Break free! Pick five genres you rarely touch—maybe historical fiction, sci-fi, cozy mystery, fantasy, and romance—and read one book from each. Bonus points if you mix them up in unexpected ways (space opera meets Victorian drama, anyone?).

2. Around the World in 12 Books

Travel without leaving your couch! Choose novels set in different countries or written by authors from diverse cultures. You’ll discover new voices, unique traditions, and maybe even a few recipes to try while you read. Passport not required—just curiosity.

3. The Alphabet Adventure

Start with “A” and work your way to “Z,” reading titles or authors that match each letter. It’s like literary bingo, but with bragging rights. Warning: Q and X could be a challenge, but that’s part of the fun.

4. The Page-to-Screen Showdown

Pick books that have been adapted into movies or TV shows. Read the book, then watch the adaptation and decide: Did Hollywood nail it or butcher your beloved characters? (Spoiler: The book usually wins.)

5. The Time Traveler’s Challenge

Read one book from each decade of the last century. Start with the roaring ’20s and work your way to the 2020s. You’ll see how storytelling—and society—has evolved, and maybe spot some timeless themes along the way.

Ready, Set, Read!

The beauty of these challenges? They’re flexible. Mix and match, set your own pace, and invite friends to join for extra fun. Reading doesn’t have to be solitary—it can be a shared adventure full of laughs, discoveries, and maybe a little friendly competition. I’m also enjoying the challenges on Storygraph. You can find some great inspiration and add your favorite books to the challenges on that platform. It’s a great way to help readers discover your favorite authors.

So grab your favorite beverage, dust off that TBR pile, and dive in. Your next great story—and a whole lot of fun—is waiting. Do you enjoy reading challenges? Which is your favorite?