Reasons and motivations behind personal reading are just as diverse as are readers. We want to know what makes you pick up a book. Is it to learn, for entertainment, for work or school, or to win cool prizes at your library? Please share with us why you read!
4 comments:
I can’t narrow down why I read to a single motivation…but if I had to pick one (which I don’t) it would be for discovery. I grew up in a fairly small home with parents who were forever interested in what I was doing and who I was doing it with, but what I chose to read was left up to me completely. Freedom in my selection of reading materials allowed me to explore and experience a variety of personalities, cultures, situations, and throughout junior high all the harrowing drama I could stomach. Even to this day I tend to gravitate towards fiction depicting situations and characters I hope never to actually experience (try Graceland by Christopher Abani or Serena by Ron Rash).
An article in Psychology Today (Nov/Dec2006, Vol. 39 Issue 6) by Marina Krakovsky discussed findings from a study that determined readers of narrative fiction tended to score higher on tests of “empathy and social acumen” than those who preferred not to read fiction. The opportunity to read about dissimilar characters, plots, and reactions help broaden our understanding of others and also, according to Krakovsky’s article, help us feel less alone with our own challenges. All great reasons to read and even better reasons for advocating literature in schools.
As a kid I was more about playing out of doors than sitting and reading somewhere. Although they were fun years I often wonder how much I missed out on not being a reader. Today I love to read! My husband and I read to each other as our together time. It is a great experience and has taught us both much about patience!
Risnphnx, You should try reading outdoors! :) That is assuming we are ever going to see a sunny day above 60 degrees.
I'm glad you mentioned the social side of reading. Often reading is seen as an introverted action, but it really does provide the opportunity to discuss ideas and learn along with someone.
I enjoy reading because it's like a vacation that doesn’t cost money, unless you forget to bring your book back on time. :)
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