If Goodreads isn’t loading, won’t open, or keeps showing an error, you’re not the only one. Many users face problems where the site or app suddenly stops working, pages won’t load, reviews don’t show, or the app fails to sync.
This guide explains why Goodreads might not be working and gives you step-by-step solutions to fix the issue on your device.
Why Goodreads Is Not Working?
Here are the most common causes of Goodreads not working:
- Goodreads servers are down due to maintenance or an outage.
- Internet connection issues or unstable Wi-Fi.
- Outdated app version or corrupted app cache.
- Browser cookies or cache are causing loading errors.
- VPN or proxy interference blocking Goodreads’ servers.
- Firewall or ISP restrictions are preventing the app or website from connecting.
- Temporary bug in the Goodreads mobile app.
How to Fix the Goodreads Not Working Problem
If Goodreads isn’t working on your side, follow these steps one by one. Each fix covers a possible cause of the issue.
1. Check Goodreads Server Status
Before trying anything else, make sure Goodreads itself isn’t down. Sometimes the problem isn’t on your side but with Goodreads’ servers. You can check the current server status by visiting websites like Downdetector.com/status/goodreads, or by searching “Goodreads down” on Twitter (X) to see if other users are reporting issues.
You can also try opening Goodreads on another device or switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data to confirm if it’s a local network problem. If many users are reporting the same issue, it’s most likely a temporary server outage. In that case, wait for a while. Goodreads usually restores service within a few hours.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
If Goodreads servers are fine, the problem could be your internet.
Try these quick checks:
- Restart your Wi-Fi router or switch to a different network.
- Turn off your VPN or proxy if you’re using one.
- If you’re on mobile data, toggle Airplane mode on and off to refresh the signal.
If websites other than Goodreads also fail to load, the issue is likely your internet connection.
3. Clear Browser Cache or App Data
Cached files or cookies can cause Goodreads to malfunction, especially on browsers or the app.
For browser users:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Command + Shift + Delete (Mac).
- Clear cache and cookies for Goodreads.
- Refresh the page or restart your browser.
For app users:
- Go to your phone’s Settings → Apps → Goodreads.
- Tap Storage → Clear Cache and then Clear Data.
- Reopen the Goodreads app and log in again.
This removes old files that might be causing errors.
4. Update the Goodreads App
An outdated version can cause login or loading issues.
To update:
- Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Search for Goodreads.
- Tap Update if a newer version is available.
Once updated, reopen the app and see if it works correctly.
5. Disable Browser Extensions or Ad Blockers
Some browser extensions, such as ad blockers or privacy tools, can interfere with Goodreads and stop pages from loading correctly. Try turning off all browser extensions, then refresh Goodreads to see if it works. If the site loads correctly after that, re-enable your extensions one at a time to identify which one is causing the issue.
6. Restart Your Device
It sounds simple, but restarting your phone or computer often fixes random software or memory issues. Close all apps, restart the device, and try relaunching Goodreads.
7. Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)
If Goodreads still doesn’t load, your internet service provider (ISP) or local network might be blocking the site. This can happen on networks with strict firewalls, such as those in schools, offices, or public spaces. Try connecting through mobile data to see if Goodreads opens. If it works there but not on Wi-Fi, it’s likely a local restriction. In that case, contact your ISP to ask if Goodreads has been accidentally blocked and request that they restore access.
8. Reinstall the Goodreads App
If none of the above steps help and you’re using the mobile app, reinstalling can fix deep software issues.
Steps:
- Uninstall the Goodreads app.
- Restart your phone.
- Download it again from the official app store.
- Log in and test the app.
Reinstalling clears all app files and gives you a fresh start.
9. Contact Goodreads Support
If Goodreads still isn’t working after all these steps, reach out to Goodreads Support through the Help Center at help.goodreads.com, choose Submit a Request, and describe the issue clearly include your device and browser/app version, your account email, the time the problem started, any error messages, and screenshots if possible so the team can confirm whether there’s a known outage or an account-specific problem and advise the next fix.
Conclusion
If Goodreads isn’t working, the cause could be anything from a server outage to a local internet or app problem. Start by checking Goodreads’ server status, then work through your device settings, clear cache, update the app, or disable VPNs.
If the issue continues, contact your internet provider or Goodreads support for further help. In most cases, these steps will get Goodreads back online so you can return to tracking your books and reading goals.