Why Do You Read? [ Edited ]

[Jon_B]

We all love reading, but the reasons we're attracted to it are as different as we are.   Sometimes we want to educate ourselves, sometimes we want simple entertainment - many readers read in order to better themselves or to learn more about the world they live in, while others seek new imaginative worlds to escape to.

We started thinking about this question because of the new program from Barnes and Noble Studio: Why I Read.  In this episode, readers from LA talk about what reading means to them - click play below to watch. 

Why do you read? Post in this thread about what reading means to you - from spending time with authors and books you know and love to challenging yourself with new and unfamiliar reads, how and why did reading become one of your hobbies?

Message Edited by Kevin on 08-18-2008 04:13 PM

[DSaff]

Hi Jon!  I like this question. Reading is a lot of things to me. The biggest reason I read is for the new worlds and adventures I am able to enjoy. Fantasy, history, humor - genre doesn't matter. There aren't many things that beat out a day off, a good book, and a relaxing spot. I also read to learn, not only for professional development, but also for personal. While it may be difficult to read about circumstances in other countries, it helps open my eyes to the world around me. I also read to escape the pressures of daily life by diving into the world of a book.

BTW - I like "Why I Read!"

[Braguine]

Nothing. Nothing develops the mind and expands one's horizons better than reading. In a conversation one can quickly tell if the person reads or not.

[karinlib]

I read different books for different needs and moods.

There is nothing more satisfying than finding a great book, that can take you into a different time/place, and keeps you thinking about the book after you have  finished it.

[Vitin]

Why do I read? For all those wonderful reasons, that have been given. With James Michener, I travel, as in Hawaii, Poland, The Covenant, etc., and learn so much. With books, such as Uncle Tom's Cabin, by Harriett Beecher Stowe, I learn, suffer, cry, and my heart goes out to all those who were made slaves, of any race. When I read modern novels, I sort of find one character or other that seems close to me, such as in A Boy's Life, by Rober R. McCammon. Books on history, whether fictionalized or not, are my favorite, such as the People of the Sea, and this and that series, by Michael and Kathlene Gear. Books by Jean Auel, Clan of the Cave Bears, and others are a delight. Books written by and for my people, the Puerto Ricans, are a must for me. As for spiritual matters the Bible and the Book of Mormon! Like I said, all the reasons given, are also my reason. I can safely say, that I have read over 5,000 books in my life time. Yes, I have television, and I'm over 50. Love it!

[Timbuktu1]

Insatiable curiousity!!!!

[hawaiianchique]

Peace and tranquility. I need time to lose myself to another time and place. Reading gives me that time.

[Franky]

I like reading because its my escape from my world. I can go into someone elses world and see it through a different perspective. I also learn so much..I learn new words, new styles of writing..that always helps in my english class!

I've loved reading since I was little...so now I always have to have a book to read,or I find myself bored out of my mind!

[debbook]

These are all excellent reasons to read. There are so many reasons to read. I can't think of any reason why someone wouldn't want to read!

[fallflames]

U took the word right outta my mouth