Although books bring many people joy, that’s not the case for everyone. For those people, books are a reminder of critical essays, complex paragraphs and other unpopular things from our mandatory English classes. But don’t give up just yet! Even if the subject’s not your thing, reading can still be one of the most enjoyable and mentally-stimulating pastimes out there. Here’s some tips for enjoying reading and forget the tests and dive into the exciting world of literature!
One of the most common complaints heard in English classrooms is that the assigned book is too old, not relatable or just plain boring. Well now you don’t have to have that problem anymore. Find a topic you love the most and search for books about or involving that topic. Sites such as Goodreads have search features perfect for these kinds of quests. Test it out; who knows what you can find!
Another complaint often heard is that the books are too hard. Either they’re too old so the English is hard to follow, or they’re too complex and the meaning can’t be picked up on. As annoying as this is, it’s easily replicable at home if you’re not careful. Glance at a preview of the book, or thumb through its pages if you’ve got a physical copy, and pay attention to the books’s vocabulary and sentence structure. If it looks like it’ll give you a hard time, it probably will.
No one becomes better at something by doing it the same way forever! If you’re interested in reading at more advanced levels, try progressively building up to them. Don’t jump straight for that 900 page period drama from the 1800’s or you’ll be back in English class again. Instead, slowly increase the complexity of your reading material until you get to your desired level. That way, once you’re there, you can spend more time with your book, and less time with your dictionary!
There’s no better place to look for books is there? Scour the local library for whatever interests you most, or discover a brand new interest of yours. At my library, audiobooks are also offered, allowing the reader to follow along as they go. Not to mention that most libraries have plenty of quiet spots for study and close reading. It is truly a useful resource.
Although comics are assumed to be a man’s genre about superheroes and crime-fighters, plenty of comics, graphic novels and Japanese manga discuss other subjects from slice-of-life comedies to historical dramas to romance to fantasy and so on all throughout the genres. If you are a visual learner, or prefer the sight-based media of film and television, check out some comic books today!
Do you need white noise to pay attention? Try listening to some classical music while you read. Soft piano tunes and smooth jazz work best for me. Or do you need complete silence? Find out how you can isolate yourself while you read. Perhaps it involves noise-canceling headphones. Perhaps it’s just a change in location. Whatever’s necessary for you, be sure to do it for the best possible experience and stick to it.
If you do things better around other people, try a library cubby during popular hours. If you love nature, head out into the woods or into a natural area with your book and enjoy both at the same time! If it’s cold and you need some warmth, grab a few blankets and cuddle up near the fireplace. If it’s hot and you want some UV rays, take a book to the beach with you. Different locations work for different people. Try out multiple and choose one that is best for you!
What is your favorite comfort snack? Have a plate of it ready to nosh on while you absorb your reading material. Be careful, of course, not to eat too much, especially of something unhealthy. But some good food can give you the energy to keep flipping those pages, and can make the experience more enjoyable. After all, it pleases both the mind and the stomach at the same time. Who wouldn’t like that?
Take that book to a coffee shop, or grab some matcha to match with your book and it will only improve the experience. Sipping on one of these two drinks while reading can make you more alert and aware of the material’s content, while pleasing your stomach just as much as a snack can. Or you can eat, drink and read simultaneously. The more, the better!
Set up a specific amount of hours and read during that time. Soon, that part of the day will be most associated with reading to your brain. Even if that doesn’t happen, it’s a tidy way to fit reading into your day that doesn’t interrupt the rest of your schedule, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your book. Hopefully these tips for enjoying reading will help!
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