The (Sad) Decline of Reading

[jkahane]

Been perusing various blogs and stuff this morning, as I've fallen behind somewhat on my reading of friends' pages and the like, and found something I want to comment on. My friend elizalavelle brought this particular article to my attention:

The Decline of the American Book LoverThe main thing that this article highlighted is that the stats show that the

Comments

[aearwen2]

I agree with you. Reading is the reason I have a fairly adequate vocabulary and an idea of how to properly express myself in the written form. I was a "bookworm" as a kid and teen, and I still read quite a bit.

But I rarely buy books anymore - as much a problem of economics as anything else. And therein lies a possible explanation for this "decline".

Nine chances out of ten, what I do read, when I do read, tends to be fan fiction posted by writers that I can depend upon knowing what they're about. I'm very picky about who I read and what I expect to see: a decent vocabulary wielded with some skill, a solid understanding of grammar and writing conventions, a creative plot (or take on a plot device) and well-rounded characters that grow over the course of the piece

[jkahane]

And an insightful set of observations and all they were, Mar!

Lots of stuff here for thought. :)

[elizalavelle]

Very well put!

I track for my own records. Mainly so that a couple of years from now when I'm trying to think back about a book I read I usually can figure it out from my lists. My number goal is my own personal goal as well. I like having it but I don't think everyone needs to set a goal. I do think everyone needs to read though. It's amazing for your brain!

[jkahane]

I track what I read for pretty much the same reasons you cite, but with the added motive that it helps me remember what I've read.

I don't think that people need to set goals when they read, just that they read. Period. And I know that you agree with me on that one! :)