The Joys of Reading

Reading is something that many find pleasurable and educational on various levels.  Some form of books have been around for centuries; it’s a pastime that has a long and varied history.  So, what do we get out of it?  I think it depends on what we are seeking.

Pleasure Reading

Pleasure reading can be pretty amazing – getting lost in a world of adventure, romance or science fiction.  It can be a way to step away from the stressors in our life or a way to seek an enjoyable getaway.   It’s amazing how minutes and hours can fly by when you are engrossed a good book.  Whatever the reason, the world is at no loss for books, whether they are in print, online or audio books.  Thank goodness!

DIY Books

Sometimes we want to learn how to do something ourselves and DIY (Do It Yourself) books are great for this.  Whether it’s fixing our plumbing, decorating our house, or planting a garden, these books can be a great source of information to help us along the way!   There are endless DIY books, all on a wide range of topics that will help us with just about anything.

Educational Books

Educational books can fall into so many categories.  They can teach us about history, allowing us to learn topics in great depth.  They can also teach us a new skill, like computer programming or gardening.   Of course, there are our school books that are focused on the topics of our University classes.  These are the kinds of books that expand our mind and our knowledge in new ways.

Finally, there are self-improvement books. I have found myself reading more and more of these lately.  To the point I’ve made it a goal to read one such book a month.  I’ve found that they really have taught me a lot about myself and new ways of thinking.  If you haven’t tried one, I encourage you to find one on a topic of interest and check it out.  They are a great way to broaden your horizons, start to form new habits, and learn new perspectives.

What Role Does Reading Play in Your Life?

What kind of books do you read?  Do you read to escape for a bit into a new universe or  moreso for learning?   How often to you find yourself picking up a book to read?