From The Pumpkin Patch

I’m a bookworm at heart.

As a little girl I always had my nose in a book, and dreamed of writing my own stories someday. I fell out of love with reading when I became an adult, but found my way back a few years ago. Now, I’m even working on my first novel! My inner child is thrilled.

As a book-loving adult with adult money, I’ve collected a handful of items over the years that make a big difference to my reading sessions. So today, I’m sharing my favorite bookish accessories with you.

Bookmarks

I usually have a couple of books on the go at once, so a good selection of bookmarks is essential.

I love seeing those little mushrooms poking out of the pages. They’re so cute! I picked up my ‘Always Write’ bookmark at the British Library, and it’s the perfect reminder to keep putting pen to paper every day (or in my case, fingers to keyboard). Finally, my vintage mushroom-patterned bookmark was a gift from my brother-in-law.

Headphones 

There’s nothing better than picking up a good book, popping my headphones on and switching off the outside world for an hour.

I love to listen to a relaxing playlist when I read. No lyrics, nothing too loud, just beautiful music playing softly in the background. I recommend Emma Aiko on YouTube – she makes lovely, calming music compilations paired with inspiring titles and the cutest artwork.

Reading light

It’s all well and good having a cosy home lit by dimmed lamps in the evening. But when it comes to reading, I need a little extra light.

So, I recently picked up this little reading light. It clips to my book and casts the perfect glow over the pages. I could read in a pitch-black room now, if I wanted. If only these had existed when I was a child – holding a torch between my teeth as I read under the blankets way after bedtime wasn’t quite the same.

Tote bag

Reading at home is one thing. But what happens when you (God forbid!) need to leave the house? You pop all your books and accessories into a cute, book-themed tote bag, of course.

I’m obsessed with my Stars Hollow Books tote bag. The classic book titles in the window are such a lovely detail, and it’s the perfect nod to my favourite TV show. I often use it as a regular bag, but it really comes alive when it holds my books and reading accessories.

Glasses 

Technically, I’m short-sighted. But my eyes are much more comfortable when I wear my glasses for close-range activities, including during a reading session.

These tortoiseshell glasses are my current favourites. They look great with every outfit and fit the bookworm aesthetic perfectly. And, most importantly, being able to see clearly is the best accessory of all.

Stanley cup

When I’m deep into a reading session, the last thing I want to do is get up for a drink of water. But when I have my Stanley cup next to me, I can drink as much as I want (as long as I don’t need to use the bathroom!)

I’ve written an entire blog post on my Stanley cup, so it’s safe to say I love this thing. It holds so much water, the straw prevents any spillages and it looks really good in my little reading nook. You don’t need a Stanley cup to have a cosy reading session, but it certainly helps.

Of course, the only truly essential item is a good book. As long as you have that, something that can transport you to another world and help you forget your problems for a while, you have everything you need.