By Holly Baumann
For many people, reading is not enjoyable. Some find it too boring, too tedious, too many words to stare at. On the other side of the spectrum, reading is beloved, an escape to a different world, one where fairies and dragons exist, or cliche romance stories, or a place where you can learn about history. The only difference between these two perspectives is that reading has a multitude of benefits.
Reading overall has scientifically proven positive results on a person’s health and well-being. Readingagency.org states that, “Studies have shown that those who read for pleasure have higher levels of self-esteem and a greater ability to cope with difficult situations. Reading for pleasure was also associated with better sleeping patterns.” This is just one example of the many benefits that reading provides. Another would be that, “Studies have found that reading for pleasure enhances empathy, understanding of the self, and the ability to understand one’s own and others’ identities. For example, reading Harry Potter has been shown to improve children’s attitudes toward stigmatized groups such as immigrants, refugees, and members of the LGBT community.” This is another example of how positive the outcome of reading for all ages is.
LREI has a book club, which was founded by Jillian Walker, a graduate from the class of 2023, two years ago. The current co-leader of the book club, Senior Carrie Murphy, finds it important to read in your spare time. “I think it’s so important…doing that kind of stuff where you really have to think and be strategic, it really helps your brain stay active even when you’re not in school, so, I think it makes you smarter. And then it also expands your worldview, and it’s important to read books written by different people, from different perspectives, because it just makes you more emotionally cognizant.”
A big misconception about reading is that it is not entertaining. “People who find reading boring just haven’t read a good book yet.” Says Freshman Tiffany Palapo. The rise of book to film adaptations proves that the storylines within the pages can be beautifully portrayed in multiple ways, and that reading can be transformed into something visually enjoyable with people’s imaginations.
Reading is scientifically proven to be beneficial for stress, mental health, well-being, and is something that can not only be enjoyable, but knowledgeable. You can learn about historical events, different cultures and religions, and expand your vocabulary. Overall, it is safe to say that reading can be a very valuable use of your spare time.