I've had a similar problem, but it was just one particular book. Other copies of the Pilgrim's Path worked okay. There are an awful lot of possibilities and though I can't imagine how to fix it, I do think it has to do with having the book in your inventory when adding a mod which affects books, like one which has a book sorter, book rotate, or something like that. In this case, just dropping the malfunctioning book will allow you to read it, as was said already. A quick work around would be to get another copy to carry around.

I'd post my load order, but I have no clue where I left the broken copy, so I wouldn't be able to test it anyway.

I think you got it. As soon as I read this I recognized the glitch I've had.
It just seems to effect one book (possibly the copy in your inventory, or the first copy you read)

BR seems to have done it to me in the past.

It might be the first one you read.

Because I specifically remember picking a book up, prior to installing a mod, and putting it in my inventory. Then, trying to read it immediately after.

And it was only that one book that stopped working.

The thing is, I always try and remember to make a brand new save after installing any mod. Not sure if I did that time or if it would even make a difference.