I’ll be honest — I haven’t always loved reading. When I was younger, the importance of literacy, comprehension and the hope that we would find joy in reading was impressed upon myself and my brother by my dad. Naturally, he indulged in purchasing my brother and I the full collection of the Great Illustrated Classics, composed of the traditional canon modified to accommodate the reading level of children in grade school. At first, I thought that the entire lot of books would be thoroughly boring, so I would watch SpongeBob on our living room television instead. 

Ironically enough, it was when I judged one of the books by its cover — “The Picture of Dorian Gray” — that my passion for reading was born. The excitement that rushed through me as I would leaf through the pages and scan each and every word was a very unique feeling that I believe can only be experienced by reading physical books. I also love the olfactory essence of books. I always tend to secretly sniff the inside of a book, sometimes gaining a sense of nostalgia. While books can be and obviously have been used as props by some people as a rather performative means to communicate to others that they are cultured and intelligent, I think it’s foolish to turn them into status symbols. People should avoid misappropriating books, instead simply reading them because they like the story.

I haven’t tried listening to audiobooks, but might give it a try. Honestly, it might be much like listening to a podcast, which must be why it appeals to many. One thing I would definitely be weary of is the sound and tone of voice of the speaker. I think books belonging to certain genres require a specific kind of voice, and I’m curious to see if that is a reality. Listening to someone droning on in a monotonous voice would be an absolute nightmare. I am interested in getting an e-book reader, especially for travel to reduce excess bulk while packing. Even if you’re not traveling long distances, having an e-book reader is highly convenient for anyone who commutes frequently. Also, I’ve learned that you can use your local library card to check out books and read them on your personal e-book for free — a great way to engage with public libraries nowadays.

My preference for reading physical books definitely reflects my learning style. Flipping through pages, holding a book open, my thumb and forefinger straining to keep it propped open while reading and lying in bed and squinting at each word on a page with extreme focus during a nighttime road trip are each examples that reflect my aptitude for kinetic learning — learning by doing. I’m also a very observant learner. As opposed to listening to books, reading words on a page offers me more of an opportunity to deeply engage with and comprehend any story I’m reading. I definitely enjoy the feeling and tactileness of physical pages; it offers a truly immersive experience, in my opinion.

In terms of what helps me retain information while I read, creating a perfect reading atmosphere is crucial, no matter what type of reading I’m doing. If I’m in my room at home or my dorm, I like to have ambient, cozy lighting, maybe a lit candle, a nice squishy chair to sit in and the perfect room temperature so that I don’t start dozing off. If I’m doing serious reading for a class, I typically like to be in a library that’s dead silent; I personally can’t risk being distracted by external noises. Similarly, if I’m doing a reading for an English class, a café atmosphere is ideal. It has hints of coziness that my room has, but it being a public space where others are doing their own work motivates me to stay on task.

To wrap up, I do want to touch on something that’s been affecting me and definitely lots of other people as well — I don’t read as frequently as I’d like to. For one, it is difficult for me to balance reading for pleasure with my academic and extracurricular commitments as a college student. It feels as if there’s only so much that I can do with my time, and I feel bad that I don’t usually devour books like I know I can. To combat this reality, I have set time aside for personal reading every night, 30 minutes to be exact. This way, I am sure to remain consistent and make progress. Of course, I’m not 100% consistent, but I make sure to read as much as I can. Additionally, I like to remind myself at times when I have the urge to pick up my phone and go on social media, or even do just about anything in order to fill intermittent free time throughout the day, I simply choose to crack open a book instead. This is easier said than done, but if practiced consistently, I’m sure that I’d be able to get through books at a faster pace and with more ease while avoiding screen time and improving my mental health.

Overall, the realm of literature is vast and plentiful, and there’s so many options to fit the preferences of different readers. I myself will remain true to my word that physical books are the G.O.A.T., but I may be proven wrong if I receive the e-book reader that’s been on my mind for Christmas this year. My final message to you is that your ability to read is a privilege, and there is certainly something out there for you — experiencing the joy of reading isn’t something anyone should pass up on.