Why I read

Reading is an activity enjoyed by some, hated by others, and done by all. Whether you choose to read for pure pleasure, or are forced to for the sake of your English grade, everyone has their reasons for reading. It has become a priority in our education system that children learn to read as soon as possible. Besides the fact that it is necessary for means of communication, some people view it as a vital activity that must be practiced routinely. Although this may be true, there is something to be said for the growing numbers of children who have come to despise reading due to the pressure of parents and teachers. I was among those children. Still today you wouldn't find me tucked in the corner of a library with my nose in a book, but I have come to be okay with reading, and even at times enjoy it. When given the option to read something that interests me, it alleviated the pressure, and allowed me to simply read on my own terms.

My primary purpose for reading is for educational purposes, and for the knowledge that can be gained from it. By this I do not mean reading solely for school, nor do I mean picking up a math textbook on the weekends for fun, but rather reading books that mean something to my life, and to our society. Maintaining a strong interest in history and politics, I am drawn to primarily non-fiction books. Through reading from this genre of literature I am able to learn more about history, as well as get the opportunity to see things from a new perspective.