Reading for fun, not profit

I grew up reading a ridiculous amount. As a child I was a member of 2 libraries and also bought a book a week. And more recently because I used to have solid commutes by bus or train that would also give me focused reading time (including the bus journey where unexpectedly heavy snow let me read the whole of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe on the way to work!).

But these past 2 years have been more of a struggle in terms of book reading. I’ve lacked the ability to focus on a novel – partly it’s been the lockdowns and stress, partly missing that focused commute time. This year is going better as I’m now onto my 5th book of the year so far but it’s cemented for me the fact above. Reading should be enjoyable and not a chore – if you don’t like a book then put it down and try something else. You do not have to slog your way to the end, you don’t owe the author or anybody else that effort.

Read for fun, because you want to, and don’t forget that it all counts – kids books, graphic novels, recipes – find that enjoyment in reading again.