When was the last time you picked up a book? Based on a national trend, probably too long ago to remember. According to a 2022 survey conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts, less than half of Americans reported reading at least one book a year. This makes sense, considering that many of my peers name something like “Green Eggs and Ham” when asked about their favorite read.
The sad reality is that most Americans do not read. At all. And society suffers because of it. Reading should not be viewed as just a pastime or your mom’s favorite hobby. It is an essential part of ongoing education, teaching critical thinking, empathy and personal growth.
Reduced reading time may be linked to many factors, but an obvious one is most likely increased screen time. Using screens and social media leads to many digital distractions and a deteriorated attention span. People, especially younger, no longer have the focus to sit down and consume media in long form. So, books are left closed.
People aren’t just missing out on valuable information — literacy skills are dying. In an age dominated by AI and misinformation, this is more urgent than ever. The connection between reduced reading habits and a lack of media literacy is both clear and deeply concerning.
The integrity of school systems is also being politically threatened. Now more than ever, it’s time to take your education into your own hands and seek genuine understanding, instead of passively accepting potentially politically motivated narratives. Open the books and read to learn.
Reading also has so many benefits besides absorbing new material. Studies suggest that reading improves both focus and memory. It is also a way to see the world through others points of view, building compassion and empathy. Books ultimately make you a more informed, more intelligent and more understanding person.
Even if you think books aren’t for you, try exploring all different genres and forms. You never know, maybe you’ll love nonfiction or find a new poet to follow.
Now is the time to start reading. In such a loud world, books teach us to listen.
