Why Reading Books Remains a Staple in Today's Digital Age

Despite the rise of digital media and the popularity of audiobooks, reading books remains a cherished activity for many. My own love for reading is no exception, and I still find immense pleasure in flipping through the pages of a well-thumbed book or diving into the narrative of a digital text. This article explores the reasons why reading books is still a vital part of life in the modern era and how it contributes to personal growth and well-being.

The Magic of Reading

I have always been a fan of literature, especially when it comes to fictional narratives. My yearly book lists are typically filled with a variety of engaging novels, but occasionally, I venture into non-fiction to stay updated with the latest trends and ideas. Books such as 'The Psychology of Money' by Morgan Housel have piqued my interest in the realm of personal finance, and while I might not finish every book I start, these are moments where I engage with different genres and authors.

Some of my favorite literary works include:

Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin The Green Mile by Stephen King Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Aside from their entertainment value, these books have also played a significant role in my personal development. As a non-native English speaker, reading has been an invaluable tool in honing my language skills, enhancing my vocabulary, and boosting my confidence in public speaking. Yet, I still have a long way to go, and every book I read brings me closer to fluency.

The Benefits of Reading

The advantages of reading extend beyond enhancing language skills. For me, reading is a form of relaxation and mental escapism. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of daily life, picking up a good book allows me to unwind and detach from the world around me. However, reading can also be quite stimulating, especially when the story is captivating. I often find myself lost in the intricacies of a narrative, feeling as though I am part of the story itself.

Currently, I am engrossed in 'The Year of the Locust' by Terry Hayes, which showcases how reading can be both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you are thinking about embracing reading or want to pick up where you left off, I would strongly encourage you to choose a book that resonates with you and start reading!

My Journey as a Bookworm

My passion for literature has always been a defining part of my life. Over the years, I have managed to maintain an impressive number of books read each year, such as around 200 between 2010 and 2013. However, the pandemic and job dissatisfaction took their toll, and my reading habits declined to an average of 40-50 books per year from 2019 to 2022. But recently, I have found ways to get back into the habit.

One of the greatest boosts came from joining a book club. This group is eclectic, meaningful, and diverse, offering a wide range of books from various backgrounds and walks of life. More importantly, their voting system ensures that the responsibility for the reading choices is shared among members, making the experience more enjoyable and less pressurizing. Joining this book club sparked my renewed interest in reading. It introduced me to 'MurderBot' by Martha Wells, which was incredibly funny, and deepened my enjoyment of reading outside my usual genres.

Currently, I have already read 61 books so far this year, though job-related difficulties have caused some setbacks. My current panic and anxiety management mean that I find it challenging to focus on new books. Despite this, my enthusiasm for reading remains undiminished, and I continue to recommend the joy of reading to anyone who might want to embrace this timeless pastime.