The Enjoyment and Benefits of Reading

Max Barajas | Editor

I’ve enjoyed reading for a while now. It picked up for me in high school, when I wanted to find a productive, meaningful hobby, a great way for me to spend my time. The first book I bought was “The Glass Castle” by Jeanette Walls. When I first read it, I thought it was one of the best books I had ever read. Since then, my love for reading has grown stronger and stronger, with the desire for me to find another story to deeply become engrossed in.

I think more people should become readers out there. Reading is one of the most unique, fun, and engaging experiences you can have, and I think it’s a very meaningful hobby. I don’t know that many people anymore who enjoy reading books; I feel like it’s looked down upon by people my age. With school, it can be hard for people to find time to pick up a book, and I know that I struggle with that problem, too.

Reading has been proven to be very beneficial for humans. According to statistics from Cross River Therapy, reading can lower stress levels by nearly 70%. Another study showed that reading can boost emotional development and empathy.

Reading has not only given me enjoyment, provided me with the best stories I've read in my entire life, and helped me learn more things, but it has helped me decide to become an English major. This will be my last semester at LCCC, and I've decided to major in English, specifically Professional Writing.

I think it’s hard for students to become readers because some of them are introduced to books in school that they must read, and it becomes a dreadful experience for them. However, reading outside school is so much better than that. I’ll never fail to spend my money at Barnes and Noble on books, which get added to a never-ending TBR pile! (To Be Read, for my non-readers out there.)

Overall, there are many benefits and fun, rewarding experiences with reading books, with more benefits than the ones I mentioned here. So, what’s stopping you from picking up a book?