Books have been one of the best pastimes throughout history. While many view it as a simple way to escape or as a source of entertainment, books have proven to be so much more than just pages with words. In fact, the benefits of reading are numerous.
From boosting academic performance and expanding vocabulary, reading has the ability to open so many new doors to new opportunities. The best part? It’s incredibly accessible. Though it’s true that not everybody enjoys it, it offers experience to new worlds, thoughts, and perspectives.
“Reading has changed the way I think about things,” eighth grader Matthew Talavera said. “I feel more empathetic towards people, and it’s offered a bunch of different perspectives, too.”
When it comes to reading, most find printed books more effective compared to audiobooks. They think being able to see the book helps students and readers better understand the material.
“I like print compared to audio,” eighth grader Rowan Schramm said. “I love being able to just hold the book and see it. That way I’m able to follow along and even reread parts if I need too.”
Often, reading is able to help overcome challenges and improve skills. Whether it’s reading for entertainment or reading for knowledge, both can help deal with challenges and sharpen skills.
“Reading helps when I’m trying to learn a new subject, or even if I’m trying to find something online,” eighth grader Zoey Westbrook said. “I just read about it and then I know.”
Reading can affect many, personally and emotionally. Some feel more connected through books emotionally, while others can relate to characters and scenes from the book personally.
“I think it affects me emotionally,” Schramm said. “I’m able to connect with stories on a deeper level, and I think of it like traveling to a new place almost.”
For many years now, reading has been said to make you smarter. Most agree with this statement while some think reading doesn’t provide that raise in academic levels.
“I do agree with that statement,” Westbrook said. “When you read, you learn new things. So the more you read, the more you know. Reading makes you smarter because you’re gaining more knowledge about topics.”
Reading is a popular hobby that many enjoy. Readers usually have a specific reason, something that brings them back to reading every time. Whether it’s the effect the stories have on their mind, the way they visualize the scenes, or the connections they have with the characters, there is something in it that always pulls them back to the world of words.
“I feel like reading is a way to relate to people, kind of like watching TV or a show, except you can do it anywhere,” English teacher Jessica Brown said. “It’s a lot more intimate, too, because you get to know more details. I also feel like it’s a way to connect, because then we’re like, ‘oh, I didn’t realize a lot of people thought or fet the same way that I do.’”
