I Have Been A Reader For 14+ Years Now. Here's What I Learnt
There's No Right Or Wrong Way Of Being A Reader
The reading of all good books is like a conversation with the finest minds of past centuries.
- Rene Descartes
Read books that fall under your interest radar. Your curiosity will help you stick to the reading habit.
You don't need to read a book a week or 52 books a year, or 100+ books a year. The goal isn't the number of books you go through but the number of books that go through you.
And no, you don't need to be a speed reader. Speed reading isn't equal to speed understanding. Books need to be savoured. So take as much time as you need.
And it's okay if you're not able to read every day. Don't beat yourself up for that.
The Law Of Disturbing A Reader - Know that the moment you pick up your book to sit back and read is the moment your family or friends or the world will disturb you.
Don't let social media or media influence which books you read. Nor let trendy and famous books influence you. Choose for yourself.
As much as you can, support independent bookstores by buying your books from them.
Life will come in the way sometimes. It's okay to take a break from reading.
Buying books and reading books are two different hobbies.
Every once in a while, try reading a different genre. You may never know it might become your favourite.
Other than your absolute best friends, who know how to take care of books, never lend books to anyone.
If you are the kind of reader who loves having bookshelves, remember you'll run out of space in your house pretty quickly.
Reading is a conversation. All books talk. But a good book listens as well.
- Mark Haddon
The Jumping Eyes - When you are engrossed in a book, your eyes will have the tendency to jump ahead a few paragraphs out of excitement. Try and stop yourself from doing so because SPOILERS!
Carry a book with you everywhere you go. You'll get pockets of time throughout the day where you can read.
It doesn't matter which format you are reading - paperback, hardcover, ebook or audiobook - as long as you're enjoying yourself.
Don't, and I repeat, don't turn reading into a chore or to-do. You'll suck the fun out of it.
If you reach page 50 and are still not enjoying it, leave it and pick up a new book. We have too many books to read and not enough time. Don't waste your time on books you don't align with.
The Phone Bookworm - You're a Phone Bookworm if you sit down to read a book but then pick up your phone and start scrolling, therefore ending up not reading. Avoid this condition by keeping the phone in a different room.
Don't leave nasty reviews. If you didn't like or enjoy a book, realise that that particular book wasn't for you. It doesn't mean the author doesn't know how to do their job. Authors are humans, too; they have feelings and can feel hurt.
When you do love a book, scream your love from the rooftops. Not only others' interests will be piqued, but it will also make the author happy and appreciated.
When you finish an extraordinarily good book, remember it will take a piece of you with it.
Books are the most patient and caring friends you'll ever have.
Know that books and reading will become your solace. They will become your friends, philosophers, guides, lovers, comfort and companions. They will help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. They will help you out of your depressive times.
Becoming a reader is the best decision you will ever make in your life. It will change your life and your view of it.
I never feel lonely if I've got a book - they're like old friends. Even if you're not reading them over and over again, you know they are there. And they're part of your history. They sort of tell a story about your journey through life.
- Emilia Fox
