“Books and doors are the same thing. You open them, and you go through into another world.”
This quote is by Jeanette Winterson, an English author and professor.
Reading is one of my favorite things to do during my free time. When Ms. Winterson says by opening a book we go into another world, I’m reminded of the “other worlds” I’ve entered by reading. I’ve entered other eras, other countries, and other places in the country where I live. I’ve entered into people’s life circumstances that are different from mine, other people’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, challenges, adventures, sorrows, and joys. Quality fiction and nonfiction expand our experience, add to our knowledge about our world, and enrich our lives.
As is the case for many people, I live a busy life, and I’d like to have more time to read than I do. One way I’ve added to what I’ve read is by listening to audiobooks when I’m doing tasks at home or while driving. Many books of various genres are available in audio form, including at libraries for no cost.
I’m impressed that there are so many creative and talented authors, and I’m appreciative of the discipline and hard work that’s involved in writing. My two-year-old grandson has many picture books. As I look at them with him, I’m also impressed by the creativity and talent of illustrators.
With the many options we have to choose from for how we spend leisure time, including electronic games, the internet, and streaming, reading is often not a priority. Although it’s fine to spend some time doing those activities, it’s important to give ourselves the gift of reading and all that we gain from it. And for parents, teachers, caregivers, and others to give the gift of reading to the children in their lives, which will in turn help children to become life-long readers.
I wish you joy each time you open another door into another world through reading.