Why do we read? Not just the news or an email from work, but stories—the kind that pull us in, that make us stay up too late turning pages. The kind that linger in our minds long after we’ve put the book down.
We read to escape. A good book can be a passport to anywhere. One moment, you’re sitting on your couch; the next, you’re trekking through Middle-earth, solving a mystery in Victorian London, or falling in love in a small town you wish were real. Books let us step outside our own lives and into someone else’s shoes, giving us adventures we might never have otherwise.
We read to understand. Stories teach us about people—how they think, how they love, how they grieve. They introduce us to experiences far beyond our own, broadening our view of the world. Through fiction, we meet characters who challenge us, who frustrate us, who inspire us. We see reflections of ourselves in them, and sometimes, we learn something new about who we are.
We read to connect. Some books feel like old friends. Some become shared experiences, the kind we excitedly press into a friend’s hands and say, “You have to read this.” Books spark conversations, create communities, and remind us that, no matter how different our lives may be, we’re never truly alone.
We read to improve ourselves. With every New Year comes a batch of resolutions—less junk food, more exercise. Less screen time, more books. But reading isn’t just a pastime; it’s an investment in ourselves. Reading regularly can improve job prospects, as it helps develop strong communication and analytical skills that are valued in many professional fields. The benefits don’t stop there—reading also sharpens cognitive skills, improves vocabulary, and enhances critical thinking.
We read to become more empathetic. Reading literary fiction can help us develop a deeper understanding of others and their experiences. By stepping into a character’s world, we experience emotions and perspectives different from our own, which can help us develop greater compassion and understanding in real life. This ability to relate to others strengthens our relationships and fosters meaningful connections.
We read to protect our minds. Think of books as a workout for your brain. Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, like reading, can help keep our minds sharp and maintain cognitive function as we age. Even poetry can help those with Alzheimer’s regain their voice and engagement with the world around them.
We read to relax. When life gets stressful, a book can be the perfect escape. Reading has been shown to be an effective way to reduce stress, offering a sense of escape and relaxation similar to other calming activities. So the next time you need a break, consider reaching for a novel instead of your phone.
At Meet New Books, we believe in the magic of discovering your next great read through personalized book recommendations. Whether you’re looking for a book that makes you think, one that makes you laugh, or one that simply makes a long train ride more enjoyable, our book recommendations can help you find the perfect match. And the best part? You never know which one will change your life.
So why do we read? Because books have the power to take us places. They teach us, they move us, and sometimes, they even make us feel a little more human. And that’s reason enough to keep turning the page.
