A study has shown that approximately 1 in 4 adults don’t read at all. Ever. For an English student, and aspiring writer, that’s pretty scary. Here’s just a few of the many reasons why you shouldn’t be that 1 in 4.
1. Reading exercises our brains.
It strengthens and builds connections in our brains that watching Celebrity Big Brother will never quite accomplish. It also improves our memories. If we don’t use our memory it just starts to fade away. Things like crossword puzzles and reading have been shown to stave off Alzheimer’s.
2. It improves our concentration.
I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to read War and Peace but it’s almost as tough as a full week of lectures on statistics. It’s worth it though, I promise.
3. You can choose your holiday!
Books based in difference countries give you an insight into the culture and kind of place that country is. If you’re stuck for a holiday destination, read something! Spy books are pretty good for this because they always seem to be getting on planes to go on a worldwide goose chase.
4. Education kills the imagination – reading will bring it back.
I’ve always been known for my wild imagination, imagining scenarios and picturing ideas. I’m one of those people that can daydream for a solid hour about an imaginary place instead of revising, and I put that down to being an avid reader. There’s just no creativity in the school curriculum anymore, and we need creativity!
5. It improves your vocabulary.
What better way to impress a potential employer than with a couple of fancy words in your interview. You could even use your new found love for vocabulary in your essays and coursework.
6. It relaxes your body and mind.
I always read a book during exams to wind down before I go to sleep each night. It not only relaxes your body but it calms your mind down so you can sleep without all the noisy stress thoughts flying round in your head.
7. The book versus film debate.
The book is (almost) always better than the film. I can’t count the number of times I’ve watched a film and a character looked completely different to the way I’d imagined them, or some huge turning point in the book is either changed or left out entirely in the film (Eragon was ruined for me). So perhaps with the exception of Lord of the Rings, the books will always be better.
Sources:
http://everydayadventure11.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/10-reasons-why-reading-is-important-for.html
http://theodysseyonline.com/south-carolina/how-the-story-ruth-can-help-t…