How to Rediscover the Joy of Reading

I just can’t help myself; I go to the library to return a book and walk out with at least 2 more. The only time I’ve ever managed not to do this is when the library has been closed and I returned the books via the drop-off box outside.  

For as long as I can remember I’ve carried a book with me, sometimes two. One time, during a long journey on the London Underground, I finished the book I was reading, closed it, put it in my bag and pulled out another one to read for the rest of my journey and the return trip.

Because of this, I’m always happy when I can encourage students to read more. Not only because of the benefits for their English skills; reading comprehension and fluency, vocabulary building, grammar, spelling and punctuation to name the most obvious ones, but also from a non-language learning perspective; reading in any language can help with critical thinking, engaging the readers imagination, understanding and knowledge of other cultures and social groups, and much more. 

Of course, I’m sure we all remember being encouraged to read as children and so many people always tell me they want to read more or get back to reading. So, what’s happened? Where did the joy of reading disappear to and how to get it back? 

While I have always been an avid reader, I’ve been through some reading slumps myself. Even now, I’m often mentally tired after work don’t feel like picking up a book for a long reading session. What helped me get out of these reading slumps was starting small and making time before bed to read. Just 2 pages. If I all I manage to read that day is 2 pages, I’d achieved my reading goal for the day. Even on the busiest 2 pages is manageable and can be read over coffee, before bed (better to read before bed than checking your phone with that stimulating blue light), on the bus…. On good days, 2 pages becomes a lot more pages and I increase my personal daily goal as I come out of these slumps.

So now it’s over to each of you. Are you ready to rediscover the joy of reading? To continue to be a lifelong learner? Then pick up that book and I look forward to seeing you at the library sometime. 

Written by: Emma Wyatt

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