Encourage Reading!

Editor

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies…. The man who never reads lives only one.”- George R.R. Martin

In this digital world of endless scrolling, the solitary act of reading a book might seem like an archaic pursuit. However, beneath the surface one sees that reading is not merely about acquiring information. Reading contributes to societal development. Moreover, for young people, whose brains and world views are in a state of formation, the value of reading is immeasurable.

The ripple effects of a reading habit extend far beyond the individual, shaping their future trajectory and role in society. By developing a love of reading in the younger generation, whether through fantasy novels, biographies, or science fiction, we are equipping them with the psychological and intellectual armour they need to navigate, understand, and ultimately improve the complex world they will inherit. We are preparing them for the work place and for engaging in civic life.

Mathematics, science, history and every other academic discipline rely on reading comprehension. A student who struggles to read will struggle to learn.

It is vital to distinguish between reading a social media feed and reading a book. Books provide a psychological safe space to experience complex emotions, grief, fear, love, failure.

Other benefits include, diminishing prejudice: by stepping into the shoes of diverse characters, readers develop an understanding of marginalized or unfamiliar perspectives. Seeing their own struggles reflected in a character helps, particularly in the case of young people, as they see that they are not alone, serving as a powerful tool for self-discovery and mental well-being.

Examine Surface Reading (Screens/Social Media), as against, Deep Reading (Books/Long-form Text) . The Pace in reading social media is rapid, skimming, erratic.

Reading a book is slow, deliberate, immersive. Retention is also higher when reading a book, this may surprise some people.

Future-Proofing Careers: amidst AI and automation, the uniquely human skills promoted by reading-creativity, complex problem-solving, and empathetic communication-are highly valued assets.

Perhaps the most significant, yet under-discussed, benefit of reading,particularly fiction,is its capacity to build empathy and emotional intelligence.

Psychologists refer to the concept of Theory of Mind: the ability to attribute mental states, beliefs, intents, and desires to oneself and others. When you read a novel, you are temporarily inhabiting the consciousness of another person, often someone from a different background, culture, or time period.
In my semi-retirement state, presently, I sponsor a free reading circle for young persons on a monthly basis.

The benefit to participants is strikingly positive. I urge others to do likewise.

Maralyn Ballantyne LL.B. Hons.