Reading is a personal experience. One cannot force it on someone, nor can it be passed on genetically. Yet, the habit and interest in reading can definitely be cultivated, only if the reader is willing to walk that path. So, how do you develop interest in reading?
Here are a few tips to get you started on the reading journey:
Choose your company wisely
As the old saying goes “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future”. Choose to surround yourself with people who understand the importance of reading and are eager to discussing new ideas. Engage in conversations with people who discuss about authors, literature, upcoming books, favourite characters, etc. Avoid people who engage more in gossips and less in learning new things.
Visit Libraries
There cannot be a better experience than visiting libraries and exploring every nook and corner. Libraries have a different energy that you cannot find anywhere else in the world. Having thousands of books from authors all over the world under one roof is definitely a good way to spike interest and curiosity. You may request the librarian at the desk to help you find a suitable book as per your liking or browse through the shelves to see what interests you the most.
If a fellow reader at the library is reading a book that looks interesting to you, feel comfortable in asking about it. People are always excited to share what they are reading.
Online Reading
If you are someone who enjoys reading online, feel free to do so. There are a lot of free apps and e-books available from legitimate sources for the same. You may choose to download, buy or just read the book at your own pace.
Start Small
Read as much as you can daily or weekly. Avoid setting rigid targets. It is important to read from your favourite genre so that you are interested right till the end of the book. You may start with a book with illustrations or opt for a shorter book so that you can finish the book. You may also look for authors whose language is not too complicated. Once you are able to read easily and finish the book, it will boost your confidence. You will then look forward to reading the next book with added enthusiasm. Try to expand your horizon with different authors once you are comfortable.
Join a Book Club
This is a great way to bond with the book community and get recent updates. You can ask questions and share your thoughts on any related subject. From my personal experience, I can vouch that both online or in-person book clubs are equally welcoming to the fellow readers.
Explore bookstores that offer book rentals
When you are just starting out and gauging your preference for the types of books you enjoy, it is not a good idea to splurge money on new books right away
There are various bookstores that rent out books with a deposit and a minimum reading fee. Once you return the book, the deposit is refunded. This way you have paid only a minimum charge for reading, which is way too less than buying a new book. This will keep you going for more books since it will be light on the pocket, and you can experiment with authors/genres at the same time.
Hope you enjoyed this article.
Happy Reading
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