3 Simple Ways to Celebrate a Favorite Book

...without crafts, chaos, or anything extra you don’t have energy for.

You finished the book. You loved it.
Your kids are still talking about it but the idea of crafts, themed activities, or throwing a full-blown party makes you want to crawl out of your skin.

Good news: you don’t have to.

The fact that they are still talking about it is great. But if you want a few thoughtful, low-pressure touches to make a story stick just as well as any grand celebration, I’ve created this short blog of ideas for you. None of these ideas are have tos. They’re not one more thing to add to your to-do list. Just ideas to help you if you want to do a little more after reading a book or chapter.

Simple Ways to Celebrate a Favorite Book

1. Make a Snack Inspired by the Story

Let the book find its way into the kitchen. It doesn’t have to be Pinterest-worthy, just a little something named or styled after the story is enough to make it feel special.

Because of Winn-Dixie: egg salad sandwiches or Litmus Lozenges.
Blueberries for Sal: blueberry lemonade or muffins
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: hot cocoa
Stone Soup: simple veggie soup, made together

Even giving a normal snack a new name like “Sal’s Berries” can be simple but so fun!

2. Revisit a Favorite Line or Scene

• Ask your child what part they remember most and why.

• Write a favorite quote on a sticky note and pop it on the fridge.

• Light a candle and read a chapter together.

• Draw a quick scene together, stick figures welcome, of course!

3. Let the Book Inspire Play

• Dress up like a character using whatever’s around.

• Bring the setting to life on your walk or in your backyard.
  Make Way for Ducklings? Go feed the ducks.
  Miss Rumphius? Scatter wildflower seeds.
  The Hobbit? Go on a backyard “quest” and pack a little bag of treasures

Bonus Ideas 

You could make a bookmark inspired by the book together or even look up real-life photos or videos of the animals or setting. (we loved doing this with The Trumpet of the Swan.)

If all you do is read the book and love it together, that’s more than enough. But if you ever feel the itch to do just a little more, I hope these simple ideas helped without adding stress or pressure.

If you're craving a little more inspiration (or just want something done-for-you), check out my Because of Winn-Dixie book celebration guide, it’s filled. with recipes, discussion prompts, and playful activities to make the story last a little longer.

Happy Reading!