Two Cents Discussion: Why Do You Read?

If you missed out on last week's discussion on what makes a book a classic you can still add your thoughts. I thought this week would be fun to talk about why we read. I'm sure we all have different reasons.

Why Do You Read?

When I hear people say they don't read, I'm don't know what to think. Reading seems to be at the core of who I am. But it did get me thinking about why I read. Is it just because it was something that my parents encouraged when it was a child? Or was it because I was an on the outskirts of the "in crowd" and I find solace in books as a teen? Do I read because I have learned life lessons and explored worlds beyond my own within the pages of a book?

I think part of the reason is I was exposed to books at a young age. I remember climbing in my Mom's lap to read each night. I remember the first time I "read" the book on my own.

As I got older, books were an escape, but also a reminder that there was more out there than the cliquish community I was in. I didn't feel so alone when reading. It gave me hope. I could read about the awkward tween who found friends and acceptance.

Now I read for entertainment. When television stopped using analog waves, I stopped having television (used an antenna, but am too far away to pick up digital). So I began to read more.

I still read to explore new worlds, but also to connect to people. Through books I can "walk in another man's shoes". Reading is still an escape, but not because I'm an unhappy teen, but as a way to deal with life's stresses.

I read because I have to. Yes, I feel obligated to read the books I've received for review, but the compulsion is more than that. I can't drive by a sign without reading it, even if I drive by the same sign every day. I will read the cereal box and shampoo bottle. Did you know there's a warning on deodorant that says to use on armpits only?

I read for many reasons. Why do you read?