Before you read this article, I already know what you're likely thinking. You're thinking, "I hate books. The only reason I would ever consider picking up those ghastly things is for school. This article already doesn't apply to me." You're also probably assuming that I'm just some lonely bookworm whose only pastime consists of hiding in Barnes & Noble and giving strangers unwanted book recommendations. Don't judge me, I promise I'm normal and what you're assuming about me is false. Well, except for the Barnes & Noble part, I do love that place. But that's beside the point. My job, is to enlighten you. To remind you that books have a place outside of the classroom. That reading books can be *gasp* fun. Yes fun, you heard me. It is time to change the social stigma that surrounds reading books for enjoyment, and not just because of academic obligation.
To begin my reasoning, I'm just going to paint a mental picture for you. Get ready. So picture this: it's a rainy day and you have no choice but to stay inside. It is raining so hard that there is zero satellite connection on your Television and your phone at some point in time, died. You have no connection to the outside world, so how on earth will you handle this disconnect from technology? A book catches your eye. Despite your natural aversion to all things literary, you decide to read it anyway to pass the time. You're immediately hooked, drawn into this imaginary world that the author took so much time creating. Instantly all real life problems melt away, and you're immersed in a world that sounds way more interesting and compelling than you're ordinary life.
Seriously, how nice does that sound? As farfetched as that seems, it's a feeling that catches me every single time I pick up a book, and it's something you can feel as well. The first step to developing a love for reading and having this magical moment, is simply giving it a chance. By that I don't mean you read one paragraph and decide you hate it. Give it a legit, genuine, heartfelt chance. I know you can do it.
Books have the ability to enchant you, the ability to take you to a completely other place. It is also the best form of relaxation possible, in my opinion. I often tell people that reading books is like watching a movie in your head, but better. I realize that may seem like a silly comparison, but it really helps you picture what it's like to be immersed into a book. That's truly the best part of reading, the journey.
If you're still thinking, "nope books are NOT for me, this girl is being ridiculous" then here's another tidbit of information. Do you realize how many incredible movies are based off of books? Take Forrest Gump for example, a great movie thats based off the book by Winston Grooms. There's also the movies: Die Hard, A Clockwork Orange, Field of Dreams, Harry Potter (duh), Psycho, Jurassic Park, Jaws, The Shawshank Redemption, and so much more. I could easily go on and on, but you get the point. What's most important to understand, is that these great works of cinema would be nothing if they weren't books first.
The true key to reading for fun, is finding a genre that you would love to read. Picking out what book to read is very similar to choosing a flavor of ice cream. There's a reason why there are a million different flavors, because not everyone likes the same kind, and that's the same exact thing with books as well. Me personally, I love a good dystopian thriller with a touch of romance and a strong female lead cause girl power (high-five). But that's not what everyone loves to read, and that's okay. More than okay. All it takes is that one book to help you fall in love with a genre, and I promise that with a little work you too can find it.
I encourage you to find what you love to read. Find that book that changes your perspective on literature. Find that genre that rocks your world, that makes you say, "dang, why on earth did I wait this long to start reading?" I can't stress to you enough how important it is to learn how to read for fun. It has changed my life and I know it can change yours too. Let yourself fall in love with reading, I promise it's worth it.
