How to Enjoy Reading Books

Co-authored by Jake Adams

Last Updated: January 30, 2023

Books have been scientifically proven to improve vocabulary, grades, imagination, and even just your happiness. Unfortunately, not everybody enjoys it, which can be quite devastating to your future - you can't escape reading! But making reading a hobby that you enjoy will make anything better. You can go anywhere with a book in hand, so keep reading if you want to enjoy reading.

Steps

1
Pick the right book. What is your favorite genre? Reading what you like is often the key to liking reading. If you don't like chocolate cake, it doesn't mean you don't like all types of cake. It's the same with reading.
2
Ask your friends and family about their favorite books. You can start learning about different varieties of books, and this can give you some ideas on where to look. Also, ask what these other people like about reading, and why that is.

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3
Read the book about your favorite movie. A lot of times, a movie is based on a book and because the screen version can only be so long, by reading the book, you get more details!
4
Find a comfier place to read. If you're always itchy or achy while reading, you probably won't enjoy your book! Choose a clean, quiet area that will be easy to focus in.^{[1]
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5
Relax. Take a couple of deep breaths before reading and have something hot to drink near you. Relaxing is a great way to enjoy lots of things.^{[2]
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- If you're having a hard time finding a quiet place, try a backyard or park. The outdoors are always great.
6
Understand what you are reading. Find a reading level for you. If you don't know the words or expressions, you will find the book very dull and frustrating.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Jake Adams
Scholarship & Admissions Counselor
Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.}
7
Connect with the story. Ask yourself what each character enjoys doing the most. Try connecting it to you by comparing your hobbies, talents, likes, and dislikes. Also, think if you would change the character at all.^{[4]
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8
Make all reading enjoyable. If you only read because you have to, change that. Don't pick a super boring book about the subject. Go to the library and try historical fiction based on the subject! It can be easier to digest and enjoy, but still be educational! When you're looking for books on a certain subject, ask the librarian for help.
9
Plan time for reading. Keep everything balanced so you have time to read a little bit at least. You can never enjoy reading if you never do it.^{[5]
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10
Set goals. Try reading one page every day for a week, and challenge yourself to read two pages the next! Work your way up until you're at a comfortable amount of time for you.^{[6]
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Expert Q&A

Question

What should I do if I have trouble following a book?

Jake Adams
Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist
Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University.

Jake Adams

Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist

Expert Answer

This is pretty common when you're reading something with a more elaborate or difficult vocabulary. I'd encourage you to look up any words you don't know while you're reading, which is something a lot of people don't do. If it's just kind of complicated book, take notes!
Question

How do I get my passion for reading back?

Community Answer

Try finding books on subjects that interest you. Once you find a book you enjoy, it will be easier to find more and to want to read more.
Question

What if the book is one I'm forced to read?

Community Answer

Just take a deep breath and do some research on the book. Try reading a few chapters at a time.