• CBSE Class 10th
  • CBSE Class 12th
  • UP Board 10th
  • UP Board 12th
  • Bihar Board 10th
  • Bihar Board 12th
  • Top Schools in India
  • Top Schools in Delhi
  • Top Schools in Mumbai
  • Top Schools in Chennai
  • Top Schools in Hyderabad
  • Top Schools in Kolkata
  • Top Schools in Pune
  • Top Schools in Bangalore

Products & Resources

  • JEE Main Knockout April
  • Free Sample Papers
  • Free Ebooks
  • NCERT Notes
  • NCERT Syllabus
  • NCERT Books
  • RD Sharma Solutions
  • Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission 2024-25
  • NCERT Solutions
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 12
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 11
  • NCERT solutions for Class 10
  • NCERT solutions for Class 9
  • NCERT solutions for Class 8
  • NCERT Solutions for Class 7
  • JEE Main 2024
  • MHT CET 2024
  • JEE Advanced 2024
  • BITSAT 2024
  • View All Engineering Exams
  • Colleges Accepting B.Tech Applications
  • Top Engineering Colleges in India
  • Engineering Colleges in India
  • Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main
  • Top IITs in India
  • Top NITs in India
  • Top IIITs in India
  • JEE Main College Predictor
  • JEE Main Rank Predictor
  • MHT CET College Predictor
  • AP EAMCET College Predictor
  • GATE College Predictor
  • KCET College Predictor
  • JEE Advanced College Predictor
  • View All College Predictors
  • JEE Main Question Paper
  • JEE Main Cutoff
  • JEE Main Advanced Admit Card
  • AP EAPCET Hall Ticket
  • Download E-Books and Sample Papers
  • Compare Colleges
  • B.Tech College Applications
  • KCET Result
  • MAH MBA CET Exam
  • View All Management Exams

Colleges & Courses

  • MBA College Admissions
  • MBA Colleges in India
  • Top IIMs Colleges in India
  • Top Online MBA Colleges in India
  • MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Score
  • BBA Colleges in India
  • XAT College Predictor 2024
  • SNAP College Predictor
  • NMAT College Predictor
  • MAT College Predictor 2024
  • CMAT College Predictor 2024
  • CAT Percentile Predictor 2023
  • CAT 2023 College Predictor
  • CMAT 2024 Admit Card
  • TS ICET 2024 Hall Ticket
  • CMAT Result 2024
  • MAH MBA CET Cutoff 2024
  • Download Helpful Ebooks
  • List of Popular Branches
  • QnA - Get answers to your doubts
  • IIM Fees Structure
  • AIIMS Nursing
  • Top Medical Colleges in India
  • Top Medical Colleges in India accepting NEET Score
  • Medical Colleges accepting NEET
  • List of Medical Colleges in India
  • List of AIIMS Colleges In India
  • Medical Colleges in Maharashtra
  • Medical Colleges in India Accepting NEET PG
  • NEET College Predictor
  • NEET PG College Predictor
  • NEET MDS College Predictor
  • NEET Rank Predictor
  • DNB PDCET College Predictor
  • NEET Admit Card 2024
  • NEET PG Application Form 2024
  • NEET Cut off
  • NEET Online Preparation
  • Download Helpful E-books
  • Colleges Accepting Admissions
  • Top Law Colleges in India
  • Law College Accepting CLAT Score
  • List of Law Colleges in India
  • Top Law Colleges in Delhi
  • Top NLUs Colleges in India
  • Top Law Colleges in Chandigarh
  • Top Law Collages in Lucknow

Predictors & E-Books

  • CLAT College Predictor
  • MHCET Law ( 5 Year L.L.B) College Predictor
  • AILET College Predictor
  • Sample Papers
  • Compare Law Collages
  • Careers360 Youtube Channel
  • CLAT Syllabus 2025
  • CLAT Previous Year Question Paper
  • NID DAT Exam
  • Pearl Academy Exam

Predictors & Articles

  • NIFT College Predictor
  • UCEED College Predictor
  • NID DAT College Predictor
  • NID DAT Syllabus 2025
  • NID DAT 2025
  • Design Colleges in India
  • Top NIFT Colleges in India
  • Fashion Design Colleges in India
  • Top Interior Design Colleges in India
  • Top Graphic Designing Colleges in India
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Delhi
  • Fashion Design Colleges in Mumbai
  • Top Interior Design Colleges in Bangalore
  • NIFT Result 2024
  • NIFT Fees Structure
  • NIFT Syllabus 2025
  • Free Design E-books
  • List of Branches
  • Careers360 Youtube channel
  • IPU CET BJMC
  • JMI Mass Communication Entrance Exam
  • IIMC Entrance Exam
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Delhi
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Bangalore
  • Media & Journalism colleges in Mumbai
  • List of Media & Journalism Colleges in India
  • CA Intermediate
  • CA Foundation
  • CS Executive
  • CS Professional
  • Difference between CA and CS
  • Difference between CA and CMA
  • CA Full form
  • CMA Full form
  • CS Full form
  • CA Salary In India

Top Courses & Careers

  • Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
  • Master of Commerce (M.Com)
  • Company Secretary
  • Cost Accountant
  • Charted Accountant
  • Credit Manager
  • Financial Advisor
  • Top Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top Government Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top Private Commerce Colleges in India
  • Top M.Com Colleges in Mumbai
  • Top B.Com Colleges in India
  • IT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • IT Colleges in Uttar Pradesh
  • MCA Colleges in India
  • BCA Colleges in India

Quick Links

  • Information Technology Courses
  • Programming Courses
  • Web Development Courses
  • Data Analytics Courses
  • Big Data Analytics Courses
  • RUHS Pharmacy Admission Test
  • Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Pune
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Mumbai
  • Colleges Accepting GPAT Score
  • Pharmacy Colleges in Lucknow
  • List of Pharmacy Colleges in Nagpur
  • GPAT Result
  • GPAT 2024 Admit Card
  • GPAT Question Papers
  • NCHMCT JEE 2024
  • Mah BHMCT CET
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Delhi
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Hyderabad
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Mumbai
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu
  • Top Hotel Management Colleges in Maharashtra
  • B.Sc Hotel Management
  • Hotel Management
  • Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology

Diploma Colleges

  • Top Diploma Colleges in Maharashtra
  • UPSC IAS 2024
  • SSC CGL 2024
  • IBPS RRB 2024
  • Previous Year Sample Papers
  • Free Competition E-books
  • Sarkari Result
  • QnA- Get your doubts answered
  • UPSC Previous Year Sample Papers
  • CTET Previous Year Sample Papers
  • SBI Clerk Previous Year Sample Papers
  • NDA Previous Year Sample Papers

Upcoming Events

  • NDA Application Form 2024
  • UPSC IAS Application Form 2024
  • CDS Application Form 2024
  • CTET Admit card 2024
  • HP TET Result 2023
  • SSC GD Constable Admit Card 2024
  • UPTET Notification 2024
  • SBI Clerk Result 2024

Other Exams

  • SSC CHSL 2024
  • UP PCS 2024
  • UGC NET 2024
  • RRB NTPC 2024
  • IBPS PO 2024
  • IBPS Clerk 2024
  • IBPS SO 2024
  • Top University in USA
  • Top University in Canada
  • Top University in Ireland
  • Top Universities in UK
  • Top Universities in Australia
  • Best MBA Colleges in Abroad
  • Business Management Studies Colleges

Top Countries

  • Study in USA
  • Study in UK
  • Study in Canada
  • Study in Australia
  • Study in Ireland
  • Study in Germany
  • Study in China
  • Study in Europe

Student Visas

  • Student Visa Canada
  • Student Visa UK
  • Student Visa USA
  • Student Visa Australia
  • Student Visa Germany
  • Student Visa New Zealand
  • Student Visa Ireland
  • CUET PG 2024
  • IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2024
  • DU Admission 2024
  • UP B.Ed JEE 2024
  • LPU NEST 2024
  • IIT JAM 2024
  • IGNOU Online Admission 2024
  • Universities in India
  • Top Universities in India 2024
  • Top Colleges in India
  • Top Universities in Uttar Pradesh 2024
  • Top Universities in Bihar
  • Top Universities in Madhya Pradesh 2024
  • Top Universities in Tamil Nadu 2024
  • Central Universities in India
  • CUET Exam City Intimation Slip 2024
  • IGNOU Date Sheet
  • CUET Mock Test 2024
  • CUET Admit card 2024
  • CUET PG Syllabus 2024
  • CUET Participating Universities 2024
  • CUET Previous Year Question Paper
  • CUET Syllabus 2024 for Science Students
  • E-Books and Sample Papers
  • CUET Exam Pattern 2024
  • CUET Exam Date 2024
  • CUET Cut Off 2024
  • CUET Exam Analysis 2024
  • IGNOU Exam Form 2024
  • CUET 2024 Exam Live
  • CUET Answer Key 2024

Engineering Preparation

  • Knockout JEE Main 2024
  • Test Series JEE Main 2024
  • JEE Main 2024 Rank Booster

Medical Preparation

  • Knockout NEET 2024
  • Test Series NEET 2024
  • Rank Booster NEET 2024

Online Courses

  • JEE Main One Month Course
  • NEET One Month Course
  • IBSAT Free Mock Tests
  • IIT JEE Foundation Course
  • Knockout BITSAT 2024
  • Career Guidance Tool

Top Streams

  • IT & Software Certification Courses
  • Engineering and Architecture Certification Courses
  • Programming And Development Certification Courses
  • Business and Management Certification Courses
  • Marketing Certification Courses
  • Health and Fitness Certification Courses
  • Design Certification Courses

Specializations

  • Digital Marketing Certification Courses
  • Cyber Security Certification Courses
  • Artificial Intelligence Certification Courses
  • Business Analytics Certification Courses
  • Data Science Certification Courses
  • Cloud Computing Certification Courses
  • Machine Learning Certification Courses
  • View All Certification Courses
  • UG Degree Courses
  • PG Degree Courses
  • Short Term Courses
  • Free Courses
  • Online Degrees and Diplomas
  • Compare Courses

Top Providers

  • Coursera Courses
  • Udemy Courses
  • Edx Courses
  • Swayam Courses
  • upGrad Courses
  • Simplilearn Courses
  • Great Learning Courses

Importance Of Books Essay in English - 100, 200, 500 Words

  • Essay on Importance of Books

Books play a vital role in our lives. They are an infinite source of knowledge, entertainment, and new ideas, that help to make the reader’s mind sharp, and develop creativity. Reading books can also stimulate our imagination and creativity faculty of brain. As we read, we are transported to different worlds and experiences, which can spark our own ideas and inspire us to think in new ways. Here are a few sample essays on importance of books .

100 Words Essay on Importance of Books

200 words essay on importance of books, 500 words essay on importance of books.

Importance Of Books Essay in English - 100, 200, 500 Words

Books are a really an important part of everyone’s life in some way or the other. Books have a high significance in our lives because they provide knowledge, information, and entertainment to the reader. They can broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world around us. Books can also help us develop our critical thinking skills by exposing us to different ideas and perspectives. Additionally, books can help us escape from the stresses of everyday life and provide us with a temporary relief from our daily routine. Overall, books are a valuable resource that can enrich our lives in countless ways.

Books are an essential part of our lives. They provide us with knowledge, entertainment, and the opportunity to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Books can open up new worlds and experiences, and allow us to learn about different cultures and perspectives. They can also help us to develop our critical thinking skills and broaden our understanding of the world around us.

Books have the power to inspire and motivate us, and can provide us with the tools and knowledge we need to overcome challenges and achieve our goals. They can also serve as a source of comfort and solace, providing us with a sense of connection and understanding during difficult times. Additionally, books are an important tool for preserving knowledge and history. They allow us to learn from the past and gain insight into the experiences and thoughts of those who came before us. This can help us to better understand our own place in the world and the challenges and opportunities that we face.

In short, books play a vital role in our lives. They provide us with knowledge, entertainment, and the opportunity to expand our minds and explore new ideas. They are a valuable resource that we should continue to cherish and support.

Books are an invaluable part of our lives. They are the inevitable tool for knowledge, and entertainment and have been proven to be stress relievers. Books can help us experience new worlds, explore deep insights into the world and help us form a wider perspective. Books have the power to inspire and motivate us, and can provide us with the tools and knowledge we need to overcome challenges and achieve our goals . For example, a biography of a successful person can inspire us to pursue our dreams and work towards our goals. A self-help book can provide us with the tools and strategies we need to overcome a personal challenge or improve an aspect of our lives.

Books are a powerful tool for preserving knowledge and history. They allow us to learn from the past and gain insight into the experiences and thoughts of those who came before us. This can help us to better understand our own place in the world and the challenges and opportunities that we face. Books can also serve as a source of comfort and solace, providing us with a sense of connection and understanding during difficult times.

How the book “The Alchemist” helped me

One of the books that have had a profound impact on my life is ' The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho . I first read this book when I was going through a difficult time in my life, feeling lost and unsure of my direction. The story of the main character, Santiago, who embarks on a journey to find his "Personal Legend," resonated with me deeply.

As I read the book, I was struck by the idea that each of us has a unique purpose in life, and that it is up to us to pursue it with determination and passion. The book also emphasized the importance of following our hearts and listening to our inner guidance, even when it goes against the norms and expectations of society. The message of ' The Alchemist' gave me the courage and inspiration to follow my own dreams and pursue my own ' Personal Legend' . It also helped me to let go of my fears and doubts, and trust in the power of the universe to support me on my journey

In short, "The Alchemist" has been a guiding light in my life, providing me with wisdom, guidance, and motivation to pursue my dreams. It is a book that I have re-read many times, and one that I will continue to turn to whenever I need guidance and inspiration.

In conclusion, books are an essential part of our lives in one way or the other. They provide us with knowledge, entertainment, and the opportunity to expand our minds and explore new ideas. They are a valuable resource that we should continue to cherish and support. Whether we are reading for personal growth, to learn about the world, or to escape from the stresses of everyday life, books have the power to enrich and enhance our lives in countless ways.

Applications for Admissions are open.

Aakash iACST Scholarship Test 2024

Aakash iACST Scholarship Test 2024

Get up to 90% scholarship on NEET, JEE & Foundation courses

ALLEN Digital Scholarship Admission Test (ADSAT)

ALLEN Digital Scholarship Admission Test (ADSAT)

Register FREE for ALLEN Digital Scholarship Admission Test (ADSAT)

JEE Main Important Physics formulas

JEE Main Important Physics formulas

As per latest 2024 syllabus. Physics formulas, equations, & laws of class 11 & 12th chapters

PW JEE Coaching

PW JEE Coaching

Enrol in PW Vidyapeeth center for JEE coaching

PW NEET Coaching

PW NEET Coaching

Enrol in PW Vidyapeeth center for NEET coaching

JEE Main Important Chemistry formulas

JEE Main Important Chemistry formulas

As per latest 2024 syllabus. Chemistry formulas, equations, & laws of class 11 & 12th chapters

Download Careers360 App's

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

student

Certifications

student

We Appeared in

Economic Times

why books are important in our life essay

30,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

why books are important in our life essay

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

why books are important in our life essay

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

why books are important in our life essay

  • Leverage Beyond /

Importance of Books in Our Life

' src=

  • Updated on  
  • Nov 10, 2023

why books are important in our life essay

What is the importance of books in our life? Books play a quintessential role in every student’s life by introducing them to a world of imagination, providing knowledge of the outside world, improving their reading, writing and speaking skills as well and boosting memory and intelligence. The importance of books in our life cannot be undermined for they not only help in broadening our horizons but also act as doorways to connecting us with the world around us. They function as survival kits, they influence us and leave an impact on us. Want to know the benefits of books and the importance of reading? Curious about how books impact our lives? Read this blog to know all about the importance of books and the importance of book reading in a student’s life, essays on the importance of reading books, quotes and more!

Around 2.2 million books are published every year!

This Blog Includes:

Books are your best friend, books illuminate your imagination, books give perspective to the world around you, books build confidence, books help you grow mentally and emotionally, life lessons to learn from books , essay on the importance of books in our life, essay on the importance of reading, importance of books quotes, best quotes on the importance of reading books, benefits of books in our life.

Books are packed with knowledge, they give you life lessons, and they teach you about hardships, love, fear, and every little thing that is a part of life. Books have been here for centuries and contain the knowledge of our past, civilizations, and cultures. The importance of book reading can be reflected in the ways it caters to our self-development and overall growth.

Importance of books in our life

Here are the top 20 benefits of the importance of books in our life:

  • Books are our best friends.
  • Books illuminate your imagination.
  • Books help you form your unique perspective of the world around you.
  • Books build confidence.
  • Books help you grow mentally and emotionally.
  • Books enhance your vocabulary.
  • Books help you learn new languages.
  • Books inculcate analytical skills in you.
  • Books are therapeutic and offer wonderful recluses.
  • Books impart crucial life lessons.
  • Books sharpen your ingenuity.
  • Books make students intelligent.
  • Books improve memory.
  • Books relieve the stress of students.
  • Books improve your writing skills.
  • Books introduce us to things and perspectives.
  • Books help in self-improvement.
  • Reading books improve your communication skills.
  • Books record history and spread awareness.
  • Reading is an excellent hobby.

Now, let’s explore the importance of books in further detail!

One of the great reasons that signify the importance of book reading in our life is that books act as our best friends. Friends are one of the most important parts of our life. We can’t imagine our life without the companionship of a good friend. Similarly, a book is like a best friend that constantly inspires us to become the best versions of ourselves. Books enrich our minds with knowledge just like a good friend. We can learn a lot from books and they can help us in overcoming our failures as well as shape our minds.

An average reader will only read about 500 books in his/her lifetime.

Another important aspect to understand the importance of books in our life is that books are one of the most creative art forms. Every book we read has the power to transpose us into a different world filled with several amazing characters. Books can increase the power of our imagination and can act as a gate that opens doors to a dream world, far from the harsh realities of real life. Your imagination and creativity will be simulated by reading a good fictional book. The ability to help expand one’s horizons is certainly an example of the importance of book reading.

A good book has the power to change the way we think, talk and analyze things. There are numerous books written in several genres such as fiction, non-fiction, novels, drama, thriller, suspense, science-fiction, etc. Every book comes with its unique perspective. If you are an avid reader, you will get to create your perspective, one which will help you stand apart from others. Reading gives us an advantage of analyzing different environments which pushes our minds to be observant. Books help in developing the presence of mind and observational skills, thus illuminating the importance of books in our life.

Another reason that highlights the importance of books in our life, is that books help in building our confidence. When we read a book, we get to learn about the struggles and hardships of various characters. Sometimes we even relate those situations to our personal lives. Understanding the situations of the characters of a book and how they overcome difficult times and challenges gives you the courage and confidence to deal with your problems. Also, a well-read person will always have more knowledge about various topics that will equip that person better for social situations and for holding conversations with groups of people.

Ever wondered what the word for loving the smell of old books is? It’s called Bibliosmia.

Another reason for reflecting on the importance of books in our life is that reading books comes with a wide range of mental and physical benefits. Reading can expand your vocabulary and communication skills which can help you interact better with people. Also, reading is an effective way of boosting your memory and enhancing your focus. Reading books makes you empathetic because when you engage with fictional characters and understand their situations, it leaves a strong impact on your capacity to empathize with people. Having an empathetic attitude helps you grow into a better person.

The importance of books in our lives is not limited to the knowledge it provides us. Books also bring change in our personality, develop us into our better selves and give us lessons to cherish lifelong. Here are some of them: 

  • Self-confidence 
  • A better understanding of yourself 
  • Emotionally strong and expressive 
  • Mental visualization
  • Sense of identity
  • Keeping a wild imagination
  • Always staying curious

Importance of Books Quotes

Looking for the best quotes on the importance of books in our lives? Here are the best quotes on the importance of reading books:

  • “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading, to make reading one of his needs, is good for him.”  —Maya Angelou
  • “ Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light.” – Vera Nazarian
  • “ Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope. “  —Kofi Annan
  • “ To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelt out is a spark.” —Victor Hugo
  • “We read to know we are not alone.” —C.S. Lewis
  • “Books are lighthouses erected in the great sea of time. —E.P. Whipple
  • “A parent or a teacher has only his lifetime; a good book can teach forever.” —Louis L’Amour
  • “A person who won’t read has no advantage over one who can’t read.” —Mark Twain
  • “Let us read and let us dance—two amusements that will never do any harm to the world.” —Voltaire
  • “Wear the old coat and buy the new book.” —Austin Phelps
  • “It is not true that we have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of lives as we wish.” —S.I. Hayakawa
  • “There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” – Walt Disney
  • “There are perhaps no days of our childhood we lived so fully as those we spent with a favourite book.”  – Marcel Proust
  • “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.”  – Margaret Fuller
  • “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.”  – Albert Einstein
  • “There is no friend as loyal as a book.”  – Ernest Hemingway
  • “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”  – Emilie Buchwald
  • “There is no such thing as a child who hates to read; there are only children who have not found the right book.”  – Frank Serafini
  • “Many people, myself among them, feel better at the mere sight of a book.” – Jane Smiley
  • “Take a good book to bed with you—books do not snore.” – Thea Dorn

Explore more topics

There are numerous ways that books influence our lives they give us insight into how other people live, they broaden our worldview, they influence our thoughts on politics and social issues, they show us how to be better people, and they help us to not feel alone.

Reading expands your vocabulary, it improves your focus, memory skills, and self-esteem. But it also helps you alleviate stress and become more emphatic, ingredients that can assure your academic success.

Whether you’re doing it for work or pleasure, reading can be extremely beneficial for your brain, health and general well-being. It can even make you more compassionate toward people around you. For increased reading comprehension, remember to take your time to understand what you’re reading.

The advantages of books are not just limited to our personal lives, they can also help us in our professional growth. Engaging regularly with books can help us in building our vocabulary as well as give us the confidence to conduct ourselves in front of groups of people, both these skills are instrumental to one’s admission process.

Follow Leverage Edu for more interesting and informative articles on  school education .

' src=

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

10 comments

Very valuable content…

Thank you, Abha!

It sure was nice when you said that if children would develop a habit of reading books from an early age, they will be able to do anything in life. This gives me the idea to shop for fairy series books for my daughters who are both in elementary. Certainly, I want them to excel academically by developing their love for reading. Also, I want them to feel empowered every time they read.

Thank you for the comment! The benefits of reading are far-reaching and it’s great to develop academically and creatively.

This is a useful and excellent share. Will definitely share it with people I know.

Hi, Raymond! Thank you for reading our blog. We are glad we were able to guide you the importance of books. Also, here are some other amazing content for you to read: Importance of Value Education Importance of Value Education Importance of Education for Growth and Betterment Importance of Mentor in a Student’s Life Importance of Time Management for Students We hope this helps. Also, if you are looking forward to pursue your studies abroad, give us a call on 1800 57 2000 and get 30 minutes of free counselling session from our mentors.

I loved that you said that you can expand your vocabulary and enhance your communication skills when you consider reading books. This is something that I will consider since I want my children to have the love to read books.

Reading has always been the primary source of knowledge. Thank you for your feedback!

I agree with every factor that you have pointed out. Thank you for sharing your beautiful thoughts on this.

Hello Raymond,

Thank you for sharing your feedback! You can read a blog on the best English Speaking books here- https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speaking-books/ .

browse success stories

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

30,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

why books are important in our life essay

Resend OTP in

why books are important in our life essay

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

why books are important in our life essay

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Why Are Books Important?

Books have always played an important role in culture and daily life. But in our generation, people seem to ignore books because of modern technology.

In this article, we will go through the importance of books, as discussed by experts:

Estelle Bardon

Estelle Bardon

Author, MyLibook

As an adult, I notice the impacts books have on me at different levels:

Books create more profound memories that stay for life

Books influence us over time as our brain actively personalizes the creation of the characters and the story. Have you read a book then watched the movie adaptations? Were you disappointed by the movie?

The author sets the characters, the plot, and the context. Our brain takes it to a deeper level. For example, yesterday, I thought about “ L’assommoir “ from Émile Zola for some reason.

I had to read that book as an assignment for school. Twenty years later, I still remember the images I created of Gervaise, a strong woman who managed to make her own company with a child in charge.

I still remember how I imagined her with brown hair arriving at her shoulders, a strong upper body, and an old-fashioned dress with flowers.

Today, I know that life can change from one minute to another and that I need to keep working hard to avoid a potential downfall — a big lesson of life.

Books help us relax

I am now a “book” person. I enjoy reading a book before going to bed. When I want a book, I share the story (and often the book) with my friends to keep the discussion going and discover potential new interpretations.

I am not part of a book club, but books have a social aspect connected to them.

Books can help entrepreneurs

I am launching my start-up, so I read books to learn how to market books, use social media, and become a successful entrepreneur. There are fantastic book resources out there! Even Bill Gates said that his reading habit is “key to [his] learning.”

Related: 68 Best Business Books for Entrepreneurs

Books meant cuddling time as a mum

Reading books before going to bed became a night routine soothing my children. Seven years later, we still read books every night before bed (and we kept the warm cuddles).

I have a Library card to make sure that we rotate the books as I have book addict girls.

As a mum thinking about my children’s future, I believe that books can help them have a fulfilling life. Books entertain my children, make their dream, and develop their creativity.

My 7-year-old is now creating her own books and stories inspired by ideas she got from books she read. It teaches them new skills to help them grow up.

For instance, I bought “ Honeycake – Counting all my blessings “ by Medea Kalantar for my daughter. The author uses the green-eyed monster to teach how to deal with jealousy.

After reading the book, my daughter identified her jealous feelings, talked about them, and avoided tantrums. What a blessing!

It teaches children to be better people

It teaches them to be better people. “ My Friend is Sad “ from Mo Willems is a good example. The Elephant is sad. His friend Piggie tries different strategies to make Elephant happy because he does not want to see his friend miserable.

Shouldn’t we all do the same? Cheering up our friends?

It builds children’s vocabulary

It builds their vocabulary. The more children hear a word, the more familiar they become with it. At one point (and with explanations), their sponge brain adopts the new words and uses them naturally.

Books are powerful . There is a book about any topic where the reader can build up knowledge and deepen their own interests independently of the reader’s age. Giving access to reading and books is critical for a better future.

Rev. Dr. Rick Patterson

Rick Patterson

Author, “ Shame Unmasked: Disarming the Hidden Driver Behind Our Destructive Decisions “

Books are necessary for a successful mental health journey

I’ve always argued that reading (and writing) are necessary for a successful mental health journey. However, entering into that battle to maintain our sanity has never been more critical in this time of isolation.

I’m speaking here specifically of reading full books as well – for reasons I’ll mention below.

When I was in seminary, the head librarian introduced me to the idea of books as “conversation partners.” I had never previously heard such a concept, but it quickly made all the sense in the world – especially have I witnessed my own interaction with books through the years.

When we read a book, we enter into a relationship with the author where we are challenged, and we challenge back. When we read a book, we (hopefully) listen, but in this inexplicable way, we are also heard .

These conversations led to personal growth – which is the beginning and end of it all for me.

This is why I speak specifically of books – not just articles. Articles or short pieces (such as this one) are also hugely important, don’t get me wrong.

However, a book is an investment in a relationship beyond just an acquaintance, if you will. An article is the equivalent of a great chat you have with someone over coffee, but a book is an invitation to spend a weekend together!

Each is key to what I think is the main contributor toward mental wellness – personal growth.

Personal growth

Growth is foundational to human wellness. In today’s polarized world, it can and probably has been said that such a statement makes one “woke” or a “snowflake.”

It seems to me that even speaking of human wellness will probably get you categorized politically. Be that as it may, we owe it to ourselves and our own health to grow .

We have to realize that growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum, but it doesn’t have to happen in a crowded classroom or a therapist’s office either.

Books allow us to enter a relationship with honesty

Reading books allow us to enter a relationship with honesty that frequently we can’t even find inside our relationships with our closest friends or paid therapists.

If we choose to access it, this honesty is a liberation only offered through reading . Reading is as private of a relationship as we care to make it, and that can be the only outlet many of us dare to take.

This brings up the nature of how that growth takes place.

We learn from views other than our own

When we read, we will find new ideas, objectionable ideas, comforting ideas, challenging thoughts, and things “we’ve been saying all along.” As we experience those different interactions – if we approach them honestly – we have an opportunity to learn , and learning is the key pathway to growth.

We learn from views other than our own – they inform our own positions as readily as they give us insight into alternate views of reality.

However, the beauty in reading is that this interaction can take place at a more reasonable pace than strictly human conversation, and, frankly, there can be less shouting and less accusation as we all hunker in to defend our positions.

Books can control the volume and accusation

In today’s world, people are constantly vying for our attention to a position. That vying can typically include increasingly elevated volume and accusation.

While reading a book, we control that volume entirely, which is a good thing.

Don’t get me wrong! While reading, there are still plenty of opportunities to feel attacked or go on the attack. This can frequently be part of learning and growing through challenging relationships as well.

However, it can be much easier to reflect on the attack, pause, and hear what is being said by both parties in the conversation – you and the author.

This is frequently what allows such a challenging conversation to continue – time. When we are in a heated debate with a live human (which can certainly still be a growth experience), it’s much easier to become judgmental toward that person and to feel the attack as personal for some reason instead of educational.

Books help us feel heard

I’ve saved this for last as it, for me, has been the most valuable and important part of reading. For some reason, I’ve been able to engage authors over shared struggles in a way that helps me walk away feeling heard to a much greater extent than most other human interactions.

Maybe that’s my own fault in how I treat human interactions – I don’t know. All I know is that being heard matters.

I find there is nothing more healing to a human psyche than to know that it’s been heard. I also find there’s nothing more important in the process of healing from any situation than to hear you are not alone in that situation.

There is nothing that gives a person more courage than knowing that others have fought this fight and come out the other side. There is nothing that empowers the sense of being heard as feeling the empathy of another.

Indeed, that can happen in live interactions, but the pace and intimacy through which it can occur in the written word cannot be replicated.

For the most part, when I read, I find myself in a mutual relationship with the author and not a judgmental one in either direction. I’m sure there are critical books out there, and, like judgmental living humans, it’s probably usually best to set them down and move on.

We can write our own book

The last piece I offer regarding the value of books comes down to writing your own to provide yourself with as a conversation partner to others. I realize that not everyone has the time or opportunity to do such a thing, but I can’t overstate its value.

When I wrote “Shame Unmasked,” it was my sole hope to give people a companion in their journey through their own battle with shame (and maybe narcissism).

I came to find in that experience that not everyone cared for what I had to say, and I had to process (and grow through) that rejection. I also found there were plenty of people I was able to help by simply sharing my own story and path – much as I would if I were personally with them.

In the end, both the writer and reader grow from the experience and are given a leg up in becoming our best selves. Maybe that means I’m “woke” or a “snowflake,” but I think nothing is more worth accomplishing, and books are key to getting it done!

Natalie Bickel

Natalie Bickel

Creative Communications Specialist | Author, “ The Christmas Clue “

They allow for basic human connection through story

I found myself returning to the pages of my favorite book. “ Because of Winn-Dixie “ was the sole story that made me fall in love with reading.

Each time I found a stopping point or had to quit reading for the day, I would clutch it against my chest, basking in the joy it evoked as an elementary school girl.

As a tale of a belonging and unlikely friendship, I found representation within its pages even at a young age, envisioning myself as the main character, Opal, a brave ten-year-old who stood up for what she wanted and what she believed was right.

That’s why books are important . They allow for basic human connection through story. We all want to be seen in this world, and books will enable us to relate to characters, find commonalities, and know we’re not alone.

Even if we didn’t experience the exact happenstance a character underwent, we could relate to the trauma, joy, pain, determination, etc., that resulted.

I think when we read, no matter if it’s nonfiction or fiction, we find ourselves somewhere in the story. We seek out the person who mirrors us the most or the person who reflects who we want to become.

Books inspire us to dream beyond ourselves

Books also inspire us to dream beyond ourselves, learn new perspectives, and see the beautiful and ugly parts of history reimagined into new worlds.

We get to explore realms that we wouldn’t otherwise in day-to-day living. Even movies can’t evoke the same level of imagination. Have you ever seen a movie before reading the book it was based on? If you go back and read the book, you’re only going to replay the movie in your head.

But, if you read a book before the movie comes out, you’re going to create your own unique version of the world, story, and characters. The author’s original vision varies from yours, too.

That’s what makes books so magical . Not one person will conceptualize the same connection, symbolic comprehension, or images in their mind when reading a book.

Books are like a guide

Overall, books are like a guide . The author has written a story full of their own experiences, feelings, desires, and ideas put into words that include layers, symbolism, and themes you may or may not pick up on, which is where the beauty lies.

When the book is in your hands, it’s now your own unique, interpretive journey; a canvas with a base layer allowing you to find your own story within it and to decipher and depict in your minds-eye.

Dr. Tasha Thompson-Gray

Tasha Thompson-Gray

Educator | Author, “ My People Are Innovative “

Books allow us to acquire knowledge

Reading is one of the most important skills we learn in life. Reading books allows us to acquire knowledge and vicariously experience things with characters.

Readers can go to faraway places, learn about people, and gain insight into many topics when they read books. Books can provide alternative realities that allow readers to escape real life.

The solution to some problems can be found in books. Authors write books with particular readers in mind to help them learn, cope, and be entertained.

Our world is full of a wide variety of books to help ensure that every person can locate books on topics of interest. For almost every task that an individual completes, there is more than likely a set of books that will increase a person’s level of understanding as it pertains to the task.

Books are essential for education

Most children learn to connect with books at an early age. This connection can lead to a love and appreciation for books as a source of knowledge.

Once children enter school, they rely on books as the primary source of knowledge. Educators use books to guide students to a higher level of understanding in content areas.

Books allow students to practice and improve literacy skills needed to function on higher levels of education. Educators guide students to strive for higher levels of achievement, and books are used to aid in acquiring knowledge.

There are broad types of books

We have different genres of books to appeal to the interest and needs of all people. The broad categories of books are fiction and nonfiction .

Fictional books allow readers to use their imagination and enjoy experiences that may not exist in reality. Nonfiction books serve as a source of factual information about individuals, places, and ideas.

Related: 38 Best Nonfiction Books

At some point in their life, most people have been required to read certain books for school, jobs, and other areas of their life. Books that are needed commonly serve a purpose related to an overall achievement of a goal .

Reading for leisure extends beyond requirements and allows readers to select books based on interest to read at their own pace. People who choose to read as a pastime may choose books based on their interests, hobbies, and/or curiosity.

Books are important because reading is essential . Books open our eyes to new topics. Books help to develop and stretch our imaginations. Almost every household has a collection of books.

Neighborhoods have libraries filled with thousands of books for community members to borrow. Many professionals suggest books to their clients.

People buy books for themselves and give them as gifts. Businesses often display books or magazines to their patrons. We even have different formats of books to appeal to other reading preferences.

Some people choose to read printed books, while others prefer to read electronic and audiobooks. Regardless of a person’s personal preference and interests, there are bound to be many books available for individuals to read.

Books are everywhere in our world because they are important to our growth and development . The more we read, the more we know and grow .

Kassie Hanson, MS CCC-SLP

Kassie Hanson

Certified Speech-Language Pathologist | Owner, Talk 2 Me Mama

Books are foundational for language and vocabulary building

Before children can even speak, books are foundational for language and vocabulary building. Babies and toddlers can work on receptive language (what they understand) by pointing to pictures when they are named.

Eventually, this leads to them saying some of their very first words! Reading books to young babies is fun for parents to bond with their children, even as they are only a few months old.

As babies become toddlers, books are great for continuing to learn new words and concepts children might not otherwise have access to. Children learn about space, dinosaurs, and countless other ideas they might not encounter in everyday life.

Reading is an excellent base for imagination

Reading is also an excellent base for imagination. Children can insert themselves into the story or insert the characters into their play within books. This is a fun and natural way to work on pretend play. Pretend play is a basic skill that is foundational to creativity and imagination.

If children are read to often as babies and toddlers, they learn preliteracy skills faster , often leading to early readers. Literacy skills in elementary are a great predictor of overall academic success since so much of learning comes from reading new information.

While children learn to read, engaging books are essential to keep them motivated and interested .

Around 3rd or 4th grade, there is a shift in reading. Before these grades, children have been perfecting their ability to read.

Children learn new information by reading books

However, by the time they hit these middle grades, they are expected to learn new information by reading . (Many professionals think of it as the shift between learning to read and reading to learn.)

As children enter middle and high school, reading is one of the main ways they learn new information. Books (textbooks and novels) play a significant role in curriculum for the rest of their schooling.

Aside from formal education, books play an important role in the lives of many adults. Whether for pleasure or growth, books are a fantastic resource.

Books can be a great escape

For those that read just for fun, books can be a great “escape” daydreaming about other countries, other worlds, and other circumstances.

While reading for pleasure as an adult is sometimes viewed as less beneficial than reading nonfiction, there are still plenty of upsides. Reading can expand even the adult vocabulary, and it is a much more engaged pastime than watching TV.

For those adults that prefer reading nonfiction, whether an autobiography or a self-help book, new skills and outlooks are brought to life through the pages of a good book.

Near the end of life, those who continue to read tend to keep their cognitive skills sharper than those who passively watch their favorite soap operas.

Reading is a cognitive skill that can postpone brain degeneration as we age. Books really are a fantastic resource from when we take our first breath to our last!

Lizann Lightfoot

Lizann Lightfoot

Founder, Seasoned Spouse | Author, “ Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses ”

Some might argue that video is king in the digital world, and books are becoming old-fashioned or outdated. But as a writer, a published author, and an avid reader, I believe that books continue to be necessary.

Whether they are paperback, hardcover, or digital formats, books are important because the written word continues to be an essential element of human communication.

Written words connect us

The words we find in books have the power to connect people worldwide . In a time when video calls are common, and some of us communicate through memes and emojis, there is still an incredible power in the written word.

Whether it’s a journal, a romance novel, a fantasy, or a how-to book, we use written words to convey our strongest emotions, our most vivid imaginations, and for solutions to our greatest challenges.

When I write for the military community⁠ — whether it is a news article, a blog post, or a published book ⁠— I am aware that my words have the power to connect me to strangers and have a powerful impact on their lives.

Since writing “Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses,” I love hearing the ways that my writing has touched someone, helped them through a challenging time, or made their life a little easier.

That connection to the reader is what most authors seek when they create a book.

Words are one of the five love languages

According to the book, “ The Five Love Languages, “ there are five different ways that a person can convey their love or seek love.

  • Words of Affirmation
  • Acts of Service
  • Physical Touch
  • Quality Time

Since words are one of the five major ways humans convey love and connection , it’s no surprise that the written terms in books continue to be essential to us.

If we look closer, we can see that writing a book can be an act of service to the author’s community, a reader can enjoy the physical touch or a book’s pages, bibliophiles enjoy spending quality time reading books, and books always make great gifts!

Since a book can reach our love languages, people will continue to treasure them.

I learned the power of the written word as an English Literature major in college. Still, I don’t think I appreciated the power of writing until I spent seven years dating my Marine in a long-distance relationship.

The military kept placing him in time zones that were nowhere near mine, and cell phone service was often not available, so a huge part of our relationship developed through written letters.

When he went to Boot Camp, I wrote to him then to California, Iraq, and Afghanistan. His letters to me were sometimes thoughtful, romantic poems, and other times were hurried messages covered with the stain of foreign sand.

Those letters kept us going through incredibly challenging moments and allowed our relationship to grow . Because I know the power of our letters to each other, I know that the written word will always be important to relationships.

Books communicate timeless ideas

Even though we started writing to each other two decades ago, we still have all our letters! In fact, they have moved with us to six different houses now, and we occasionally pull them out and read them together.

I don’t have our old emails, and you can’t re-read a phone call or video chat. But written words are something you can return to repeatedly—when you seek advice, need an emotional lift, or want insight into someone’s thoughts.

As authors around the world continue to share the power of the written word in books, their books will continue to be relevant . The format of books has adapted to the digital age, with ebook and audio recordings.

But there will always be a powerful emotion when you re-read a favorite story, return to an important passage, or look up some helpful advice.

When I wrote “Open When,” I designed it to be a collection of letters that speak to specific moments in the military family journey.

It was created to be a book that would stay on your bookshelf until needed, then pulled down and flipped open to precisely the encouraging message you need to hear that day.

A book like that will always be important and be appreciated !

Janet Ruth Heller, Ph.D.

Janet Ruth Heller

Educator | Author | President, Michigan College English Association

Books can comfort suffering people

John Stuart Mill’s father, James Mill, had educated his son, and they were very close. When James died, John felt devastated and depressed.

John tells us in his Autobiography (1873) that he turned to the poetry of William Wordsworth for comfort. Many other people have also found consolation in books.

Books can inspire readers to have a new career

When I was young, relatives gave me biographical books like Russell Freedman’s Teenagers Who Made History (1961) and Aylesa Forsee’s and Ruth Macrae’s “Women Who Reached for Tomorrow” (1960).

These books emphasized writers, athletes, designers, musicians, actresses, etc., who had accomplished a lot during their lives.

Freedman’s book introduced me to the writer Edna St. Vincent Millay, which got me interested in her poetry and inspired me to write more often.

I hoped that I would have a career as a successful writer. This dream eventually came true .

Books create imaginary or real worlds

Books transport readers to new worlds. For example, Eli Wiesel’s autobiography Night (1960) realistically portrays living in a concentration camp with his father during the Holocaust.

Mark Twain’s novel A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court (1889) helps readers imagine the medieval world.

Books stimulate readers’ minds and convince us to take action

Books can introduce people to new ideas and convince individuals to take action .

Rachel Carson’s nonfiction Silent Spring motivated many people to limit the use of pesticides like DDT because the chemicals were killing birds and animals.

The Environmental Protection Agency resulted from Carson’s advocacy for greater control over contamination of the earth.

Catherine Berra

Catherine Berra

Author, “ These Stories Are True… I Shit You Not: A Humorous Look at Online Dating for the Unsuspecting Older Human “

Books can make you change your perspective on life

When I reminisce about all the wonderful books I’ve read, I reflect on how those books made me feel and how they changed my perspective on life.

The first book I remember reading at age 12 was “The Diary of Ann Frank.” That book touched and distressed me and created an intense desire in my young self to understand the human condition’s complex phenomenon.

From that first memorable book, I realized the vital impact of the written word. Whether a biography, romance novel, comedy book, or historical account, books take us away to moments in time where we are engrossed in another world, another life, or a far-away place.

Our present moment is focused, our brains are engaged and fixated, and the outside world, our worries, and stress are put on hold during that precious span of time.

Books allow us to emote in our own space

Books allow us to emote in our own space and relish in the content of our chosen tome. Remember reading a love story that made you cry, a biography that opened your eyes, or a historical account that brought you back in time?

Has a book ever left you feeling inspired or alarmingly educated about an important current event? Books can change lives; books can open eyes and open doors.

Books can also help us understand that we are not alone

Books are teachers. Books can also help us understand that we are not alone in our lives and that our circumstances might not be as different from others as we think.

Take, for example, the book I decided to write about years of crazy online dating stories. Did I expect to write a book about these adventures? Not.

Have I enjoyed the response and the smiles, and the never-ending additional stories I hear when I share my book with other older adults? Absolutely yes!

My new book, “These Stories Are True… I S#!+ You Not: A Humorous Look at Online Dating for the Unsuspecting Older Human,” was a labor of love during the 2020 COVID lockdowns.

Friends finally convinced me to start writing down the most ridiculous dating stories, of which there were many . I was a single mom for a long time and did not have time to balance dating and my chaotic life until my son left for college.

Over the next ten years, what transpired was a series of comical dating adventures that coincidentally morphed into a comedy book.

The response to this book has been excellent , most assuredly because so many older humans have experienced similar adventures in the modern-day dating world.

My book is meant to take readers on a journey of ridiculousness and, ultimately, to laugh at the crazy things we do in our search for love.

When talking to other older humans, I have found that my stories resonate with so many people; young, old, male, female. They laugh out loud at the preposterousness of it all, and for this, I am grateful.

Books can make people laugh

My purpose in writing the book was to make people laugh at the human condition and acknowledge that they are not alone in this crazy thing called life .

Suppose I can bring some fun and a big smile to someone’s face and provide them a good, quick, fun read, even better. Books are amazing companions, and laughter, as always, is the best medicine.

Books are essential in our lives. The written word will never cease to arouse that important and complex consequence – the trusted and constant companion, human emotion .

Suzanne Wylde

Suzanne Wylde

Leadership | Holistic Coach | Author, “ Perfect: A Self-Love Adventure “

Books are available whenever you need them

The great thing about books is that they can sit on your bookshelf for ages, but on the one day you need them, you can easily pick one up and read something meaningful .

They don’t change according to algorithms

You can rely on the fact that a book says the same thing to every reader who picks it up. It is not aware of your browsing or purchase history – its only agenda is to tell you a story or get its point across.

That’s not to say that the information in all books is 100% factual or unbiased, but you know it is not changing itself to sell to you.

They can be an excellent source of relaxation

While screens often tire our eyes out and keep us awake late with their blue light, reading a book can be restful .

It also offers a much simpler experience than reading emails, news sites, or social media because your mind will not have to sift through vast amounts of information, jumping between very different topics – it can follow one linear train of thought as it is designed to and that can be very relaxing for our over-used minds.

Books are also non-judgemental , and we are much less likely to compare ourselves unfavorably to others while reading them, which is excellent for our mental health.

They are excellent sources of learning and escapism

The standard of writing online is extremely varied (and a lot of content is provided for free by social media friends). There is a tendency towards lower quality and a high turnover and needing things to be especially cute or shocking.

But books are still held to a higher standard; non-fiction books are mainly very considered and thoroughly-researched, while fiction is crafted to take you on a journey that takes you out of your day-to-day life.

You will find a depth of knowledge or experience in books that are not usually available anywhere else. And while a great movie can take you on a journey for 90 mins, a book can do that for hours or days (or even weeks if you take your time).

Staying with the same topics and characters for so long can be great for our minds, which don’t enjoy jumping between a million topics, and our emotions, as they can explore things at greater depth.

I recommend reading books for greater peace of mind, concentration, and enrichment.

Allen Klein, MA, CSP

Allen Klein

Author, “ The Awe Factor: How a Little Bit of Wonder Can Make a Big Difference in Your Life ”

Books can show readers that they are not alone in the world

Books can show readers that they are not alone in the world; they are not the only ones going through challenging situations. Someone dealing with being gay or lesbian, for example, might discover from a book that others have had the same struggles with coming out.

Or, someone who is feeling alone after a divorce, reading a book on the subject, might find validation in the stages of loss they are going through.

Books can also provide solutions for what readers are experiencing

Self-help books can also provide readers with solutions for what they are experiencing. Someone with cancer, for example, might discover from a writer’s own experience with the disease how to not let it get them down.

How to find humor in a not-so-funny situation. Or how the cancer experience can lead them to a new deeper appreciation of life.

Books can give hope and power to a despondent reader

And finally, books can give hope and power to a despondent reader. I remember getting a hand-written letter from an older woman. She said she was molested at a young age and had not told anyone about it for 57 years.

She wrote to tell me that one of the things she read in my book helped her let go of that incident, take back her power, and finally, get on with her life after all these years.

Uneaka Daniels

Uneaka Daniels

Elementary Reading Specialist, Akaenu

Books open up a world of imagination

Books open up a world of imagination. They help expand our horizons and connect us to the world around us. You can get lost in a good book, and it is a great stress reliever.

Books help us grow mentally and emotionally

They also help us grow mentally and emotionally, especially if we read Self Help or Self Improvement books.

Reading books helps give the brain muscles a good exercise and helps to enhance writing skills. Most readers are good writers or have ideas that they could write about.

Reading is comprehension

As a Reading Specialist, I hear many parents tell me that their children can read books. I continuously have to remind them that reading is comprehension.

So, although books are important, comprehension is the key for students and adults. Once comprehension is established, imagination, knowledge of the outside world, improvement in writing and speaking skills are all things that books offer.

An added bonus is that it boosts our memory and intelligence.

Lynn Wolfe

Adjunct Professor of English, Sophisticated Innocence

Books teach us about the world

There’s a reason why textbooks are the bread and butter of the education system. When we seek information or learn a new skill, many of us first turn to books. They give us access to all of the world’s wisdom.

Books teach us about ourselves

For centuries people have sought guidance from spiritual literature. The Bible is often described as a “mirror of the soul,” helping us understand our motivations.

Whether we’re glancing through the latest pop psychology bestseller or resonating with the experiences of a fictional character, books provide valuable insights into human nature.

Books teach us how to be better versions of ourselves

According to research, reading fiction makes us better people. Empathy increases by getting into a character’s mind and becoming engrossed in life other than our own.

Reading as a hobby also closely correlates with high intelligence . From Thomas Jefferson to Albert Einstein , many of history’s finest minds loved to read and credited their favorite authors for influencing their thinking.

So, if you seek personal enrichment and constant self-improvement, be a bookworm!

Louel Gibbons, PhD

Louel Gibbons

Adjunct Associate Professor | Author, “ To Kill a Mockingbird in the Classroom: Walking in Someone Else’s Shoes (The Ncte High School Literature Series) “

Vicarious experiences broaden our knowledge base

All of us have the same 24 hours in a day, yet reading provides us with a means of absorbing information and experiencing life in ways that surpass what is possible for us to achieve on our own.

By enabling us to live vicariously and connecting us with the universality of the human experience, books empower us to become more well-rounded and knowledgeable human beings.

Increased cognitive functioning and emotional intelligence

Readers of all ages benefit from the increased cognitive functioning that comes from immersing themselves in a book. From building our vocabulary to clarifying our thought processes, the act of reading stimulates all parts of our neurological function.

In short, books help us become more intelligent and empathetic than we could ever be on our own!

Books enhance focus and attention

Distractions abound in 21st-century life, but the act of reading requires us to focus our attention and thoughts on our interaction with the text. In this way, we hone our ability to focus and lengthen our attention span.

Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr.

Vid Lamonte' Buggs

Speaker | Poet | Author, “ You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving: Nutrition for the Soul “

Books promote critical thinking

Books are important because they promote critical thinking, using your imagination, and creativity. Books help inspire . They tell our history, our present, and our futures. They provide answers to our questions. They enhance our knowledge.

Related: Why is Critical Thinking Important?

I personally use books to learn from people who lived in the past and the present. I learned how they dealt with certain situations, how they may have been innovative , and how they overcame life’s struggles to become successful .

Books allow us to travel to places

Books have a way of calming us, whether we are writing them or reading them. Books allow us to travel to places and times that we have never traveled before; they will let us know about people we will never physically interact with.

Yet, we share their experiences. Each time we read or write a book, we learn more about ourselves. This is why books are important.

Gennady Litvin, Esq.

Gennady Litvin

Attorney, Moshes Law

Books educate people and teach them to think and draw conclusions

Books are important for many reasons. Among one of the most frequently mentioned is that books educate . There you can find all the necessary information on any subject that interests you.

You needn’t graduate from several universities to get knowledge if you can self-educate . Besides, books teach us to think and draw conclusions .

Books help you switch from your real life and indulge in an imaginary world

Another important reason is that books help you switch from your real-life and indulge in an imaginary world where you can travel to various countries, meet different people, even fly to space.

To cut a long story short, you can relax and learn something new and exciting while reading.

Books can motivate

Not always there are people by our sides who can support or give a piece of advice when we are living through a difficult period in our life.

Reading the right book can save us from depression and gloomy thoughts, cheer us up, and give us the reason to feel happiness and gratitude.

Each person has their reasons for reading books. But everyone will agree that life without books would be dull and grey .

Angela Engel

Angela Engel

Publisher | Founder, The Collective Book Studio

Books have the power to capture an entire life’s experience

Books have the power to capture an entire life’s experience and communicate that experience to someone else, something that’s difficult if not impossible to do in real life with another human being.

Books create social change, spark revolutions, and profoundly impact minds and hearts. Okay, so if we all agree that books are essential , we also have to agree that the people who write the books are important.

When you buy a book, you’re supporting not only that author but the act of writing itself, that communication of experience.

Purchasing a book also helps all the other people involved in bringing beautiful books into the world: the editors, the graphic designers, the photographers, the copy editors, not to mention the marketing and publicity team, the distributors, the bookbinders, and the salespeople, down to the cashier who rings up the purchase and puts it in a bag.

Buying a book supports a whole ecosystem of professionals who spend their lives ensuring great stories see the light of day and that great idea gets their time in the spotlight.

Katie Ziskind, LMFT

Katie Ziskind

Holistic Marriage and Family Therapist | Owner, Wisdom Within Counseling

Books are really important because they give you something to flip through while reading and learning.

Books can help children understand different experiences they are going through

Books are available with large pictures and colors for children and can help them understand different experiences they are going through.

Bibliotherapy is a form of child counseling that can help normalize what children are going through, like divorce, through reading a story about another child.

Books are a great coping tool

Books are also a great coping tool. You can read as you are waiting so that you can remain patient .

Books are also a wonderful escape . You can get lost in a fantasy or a novel about someone else’s life, from a completely different time, in a completely different family, and simply enjoy that experience.

Books can improve the brain’s health

Books and reading have also been shown to prevent Alzheimer’s and promote the brain’s health.

Reading is a very mentally stimulating activity and helps to keep your mind sharp . Books are a great tool because you can highlight them, write in the margins, and truly build a relationship with the author through the book.

You may even see the book’s author and explore

You may even see the book’s author, do a book signing, and tour one day. When reading a book, you can get a taste of what it is like to be someone else, and you may even find yourself laughing as well.

Azmaira Maker, PhD

Azmaira Maker

Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Founding Director, Aspiring Families

Books improve our mental health

If you are stuck in a place, physical or mental, and wish to get out of there but cannot, there’s no better escape route than picking up a book and immersing yourself in it.

Books possess the almost magical ability to lift your spirits and take you into a different world, where all that is going around you seems to vanish into the background.

In stressful situations, or even as a calming end to a particularly tiring day, a book in hand does more wonders than anything else.

We can gain more knowledge

In addition to diverting your mind from stressful thoughts, any activity also makes the brain stronger . When reading a book, we enthusiastically and willingly pay rapt attention to all that’s written in the form of words and sentences and, without even realizing it, gain more knowledge.

We memorize new words and expand our vocabulary, learn new ways to form sentences and push the boundaries of our imagination. This, in turn, improves our communication skills and makes us more confident.

Books help us improve our attention span

Reading also helps us improve our attention span and helps keep our brain busy, elements that help us maintain our cognitive capabilities as we age.

Alexander Burgemeester

Alexander Burgemeester

Neuropsychologist and Owner,  The Narcissistic Life

Books can help you combat loneliness

One of the reasons why books are so important is that they can stand in as a friend when you need one. A phrase that is often used is: “there is no better company than a good book,” which is true for many people.

Books can teach people new things and inspire people to be the best versions of themselves.

Books are important because of the perspective they can provide

Something else that makes books so important is the perspective they can provide. Reading a book can make you think about things differently and even make you analyze the choices that you make in your own life.

No matter the genre, every book will offer its own unique perspective. People who read books automatically have the advantage of perspective, leading to empathy and understanding .

Books contribute to both mental and emotional growth

Another reason books are so important is that they contribute to mental and emotional growth .

Reading can help expand your vocabulary and develop your communication skills, which can help with social interactions and developing relationships. Reading can also help improve your memory and enhance your focus.

Dr. Lea McMahon LPC, EdD

lea mcMahon 1

Licensed Counselor | Adjunct Professor of Psychology | Chief Clinical Officer, Symetria Recovery

Books enrich our mundane lives

Books can help nurture the intellectual being within all of us. They prove to be a bottomless pit for knowledge and lessons to stimulate our perceptive growth.

Many people believe books can bring comfort, courage, and hope that inspires us to be a better version of ourselves.

Regardless of the genre, each story enriches our lives with a unique experience. This is because it allows us to view things from a different point of view. It excites our intellectual curiosity to think beyond what we know already.

People who love to read are likely to understand others better around them and develop empathy. Books have proven to boost our emotional growth and well-being. This stimulates our imagination as we learn more about the world around us.

Emmanuel Nwaodua

Emmanuel Nwaodua

Adjunct Faculty | Co-founder, DiscoveryBit

Reading books allows you to develop new skills

Here are some of the primary importance that I hope would encourage many to read books:

  • Books are a source of extreme knowledge which empowers your brain and cultivates your personality.
  • Books are crucial in every student’s life. They can be a great companion for personal development because they introduce the reader to a fantasy world, provide information about the outside world, improve reading, writing, and speaking skills, and improve memory intelligence.
  • Reading a book is beneficial to your health since it increases concentration, memory, empathy, and communication abilities.
  • Books can help you live longer by reducing stress and improving your mental health.
  • Reading books allows you to develop new skills that will help you excel at your job, business, and in your relationships.
  • Books are also important because they provide insight into the lives of others, broaden one’s vision, and impact one’s political and social views.
  • Books can also teach us how to be better people and assist us in feeling less isolated.

Jessica Dennehy

Jessica Dennehy

Recovering Attorney | Speaker | Author, “ Pivot & Slay: The ultimate guide to mindset mastery “

Books are the lifeline to the imagination

Books are the lifeline to the imagination. You have to use your senses to craft a world out of the words on the page.

Even if you are reading non-fiction or self-development books, you have to use your creative juices to figure out how to implement the lessons into your own life or business.

Words on a page just hit differently than spoken words. Listening to a podcast or seeing a movie is passive . They don’t require the same level of attention and focus as reading, and that’s what I genuinely love about it.

My mind doesn’t wander. It just nestles right into the book’s vibe and creates my own universe of thought and intrigue.

That innovative thinking is what we need to push forward in life, business, and the world.

Wesley Exon

Wesley Exon

CEO, Best Value Schools

It makes our imagination broad

Books open a portal to another world, which can be life-saving depending on one’s home life and current experiences.

It increases knowledge in individuals

It goes without saying that reading books increases knowledge in individuals and understanding of the world around us. Besides that, studies have shown that people who read a lot, write and speak well.

Finally, with books, we control what we take in. Reading is an active activity (as opposed to watching, which is passive ) and requires that the reader engages with the content they read in some way, be that through imagination or simply be taking it in.

(If we’re passive readers, our eyes are only reading the words but aren’t taking them in, which is why reading is always active .)

It acts as a friend who is always by your side

Just as we can’t go through life without some companionship , books act as that person who is always by your side. It probably also helps that books have characters (fiction or nonfiction), and characters are relatable beings.

We can also relate to the people we read about in books, which helps make those characters come to life.

That said, the book itself can be considered one of our “friends” —especially for people who are bookworms and who always have a good book by their side!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to read books in the digital age.

Even in the digital age, books remain an important source of knowledge, entertainment, and personal development. While the Internet offers a wealth of information, books often provide more in-depth analysis, well-researched content, and a structured approach to presenting ideas.

In addition, reading books promotes concentration, which is difficult to achieve in a digital environment filled with distractions.

Books also encourage deeper engagement with the material, allowing readers to absorb and retain the information more effectively. In short, books continue to matter in the digital age and provide valuable insights and experiences that enrich our lives.

What role do books play in lifelong learning?

Books play an important role in promoting lifelong learning by providing a continuous supply of knowledge in various topics and disciplines. Regardless of age or educational background, books offer opportunities for growth, exploration, and self-improvement.

By engaging with diverse material, we can stay intellectually stimulated, maintain cognitive flexibility, and better adapt to new situations. In addition, books can inspire us to develop new skills, pursue new interests, and expand our understanding of the world around us, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning throughout our lives.

How do books foster a sense of community and connection?

Books can bring people together by fostering a sense of community and connection. Through shared reading experiences, people can bond over common interests, engage in meaningful discussions, and exchange ideas.

Book clubs, for example, provide opportunities for people to come together and explore the literature to deepen their understanding of the subject matter and strengthen interpersonal relationships.

In addition, books often serve as a starting point for conversations that allow us to connect with others on a deeper level and enrich our social lives. In this way, books improve our individual lives and help build stronger, more connected communities.

How do books help preserve history and cultural heritage?

Books play an invaluable role in preserving history and cultural heritage by documenting the past, capturing human experiences, and passing knowledge down through generations. Through books, we can learn about historical events, cultural practices, and societal values that have shaped the world we live in today.

These written records help us understand the evolution of human civilization and appreciate the diversity of our cultural heritage. In addition, books can pass on traditions, stories, and knowledge to future generations, ensuring that our rich history and cultural identity are not lost over time.

How can reading books contribute to personal and professional success?

Reading books can contribute significantly to personal and professional success by providing the knowledge, skills, and insights necessary for growth and development. Books offer valuable lessons in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making that are critical to excelling in any field.

In addition, reading increases our mental agility, adaptability, and ability to learn, making us better equipped to navigate the challenges of our personal and professional lives. By staying informed and expanding our knowledge base, we can gain a competitive edge and increase our potential for success in various aspects of life.

How do books enrich our understanding of different disciplines and fields?

Books play a critical role in enriching our understanding of various disciplines and fields by providing in-depth analysis, expert insights, and comprehensive knowledge. Whether we are exploring the intricacies of science, the depths of philosophy, or the beauty of art, books are a valuable resource for expanding our knowledge and deepening our comprehension.

By engaging with various materials, we can develop a comprehensive understanding of the world, cultivate our intellectual curiosity, and become better-informed people. In short, books are an important foundation for expanding our intellectual horizons and enhancing our knowledge in various fields.

What role do books play in shaping social consciousness and driving change?

Books have tremendous power in raising social consciousness and driving change by raising awareness, challenging social norms, and sparking meaningful conversations. Through literature, authors can highlight social issues, injustices, and inequalities and encourage readers to think about their beliefs and actions.

As we engage with these thought-provoking narratives, we become more aware of the world and recognize how we can contribute to positive change. Books can inspire us to challenge the status quo, advocate for a more just society, and work toward a better future for all by fostering empathy, critical thinking, and open-mindedness.

Why are books important for fostering self-awareness and identity?

Books help promote self-awareness and identity by providing opportunities for introspection, self-discovery, and personal growth.

Through literature, we can explore different aspects of the human experience and are encouraged to reflect on our values, beliefs, and aspirations. By engaging with other characters and narratives, we gain insight into our identity and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In addition, books can act as mirrors and windows, validating and representing our own experiences while also exposing us to the experiences of others. In this way, books help us define and refine our sense of self and expand our understanding of the complexity and diversity of human identity.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

As you found this post useful...

Share it on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Photo of author

The Editors

Logo

Essay on Importance of Books

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Books in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of Books

Introduction.

Books are magical treasures that open up a world of knowledge. They play a vital role in our lives, shaping our thoughts and perspectives.

Source of Knowledge

Books provide a rich source of information, helping us to understand various subjects. They educate us and broaden our outlook.

Improves Creativity

Reading books sparks our imagination. It enhances creativity by presenting different scenarios and ideas.

Enhances Language Skills

Books are excellent tools to improve our language skills. They introduce us to new words and phrases.

In conclusion, books are our best friends. They enlighten us and enrich our minds.

Also check:

  • 10 Lines on Importance of Books
  • Speech on Importance of Books

250 Words Essay on Importance of Books

The quintessence of books.

Books have been an integral part of human civilization, serving as repositories of knowledge, wisdom, and creativity. They have the power to transport us to different realms, stimulate our imagination, and broaden our understanding of the world.

Books as a Portal to Knowledge

Books are a treasure trove of knowledge, covering a plethora of subjects from science to philosophy, history to art. They offer us insights into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, fostering empathy and cross-cultural understanding. They are the stepping stones to intellectual growth, encouraging critical thinking and informed decision-making.

Books and Emotional Intelligence

Literature, in particular, plays a pivotal role in enhancing emotional intelligence. Characters’ experiences, emotions, and conflicts provide readers with a nuanced understanding of human behavior and emotions. This can foster empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience, essential traits in our increasingly interconnected world.

Books as a Catalyst for Creativity

Books stimulate our imagination, pushing the boundaries of our thoughts and ideas. They inspire us to dream, innovate, and create, acting as a catalyst for creativity. They are a source of inspiration for artists, writers, filmmakers, and innovators, shaping our cultural and artistic landscapes.

In conclusion, books are more than just a collection of printed pages. They are a beacon of knowledge, a conduit for emotional growth, and a springboard for creativity. In our digital age, their importance should not be underestimated. They are the bedrock of an enlightened and progressive society.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Books

Books have been a crucial part of human civilization, acting as repositories of knowledge, wisdom, and creativity. They have shaped societies, sparked revolutions, and influenced the course of history. Despite the digital revolution, the importance of books remains unassailable. This essay elucidates the significance of books in our lives and society.

Books as a Source of Knowledge

Books are a treasure trove of knowledge. They provide unparalleled access to a range of subjects, allowing readers to delve into the depths of science, explore the realms of philosophy, or traverse the landscapes of literature. They encapsulate the intellectual evolution of humanity, preserving the thoughts, discoveries, and innovations of brilliant minds. Reading books fosters intellectual growth, stimulates critical thinking, and enhances our understanding of the world.

Books and Personal Development

Books play a pivotal role in personal development. They introduce us to diverse perspectives, helping us to broaden our horizons and cultivate empathy. The narratives and characters we encounter in books often mirror our own experiences, thereby enabling us to navigate our emotions, understand our identities, and cope with life’s challenges. Furthermore, reading books can improve our cognitive abilities, such as memory, focus, and analytical skills.

Cultural Preservation and Communication

Books serve as the custodians of culture, preserving traditions, folklore, and societal norms for posterity. They provide insights into different cultures, fostering cross-cultural understanding and respect. Furthermore, books act as a medium of communication, transcending geographical boundaries and temporal constraints. They allow us to engage in a dialogue with authors across time and space, fostering a sense of shared human experience.

Books and Creativity

Books stimulate creativity by inviting us to engage with imaginative worlds, complex plots, and nuanced characters. They encourage us to envision alternatives, question established norms, and think outside the box. Reading literature can particularly enhance creative writing skills, as it exposes us to various writing styles, narrative structures, and literary techniques.

In conclusion, the importance of books cannot be overstated. They are not merely static objects, but dynamic entities that engage us in a transformative process of learning, reflection, and personal growth. They are our guides to the past, mirrors to the present, and windows to the future. Despite the advent of digital media, the tactile experience of flipping through the pages of a book and the intellectual satisfaction it provides are irreplaceable. Therefore, in an increasingly digitized world, let us continue to cherish the enduring value of books.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on Guru Tegh Bahadur
  • Essay on Great Leader
  • Essay on Reading is a Good Habit

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

why books are important in our life essay

Essay On Why Are Books So Important In Our Life

why books are important in our life essay

Table of Contents

Short Essay On Why Are Books So Important In Our Life

Books have been a part of human life for centuries, serving as a source of knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration. They are an essential tool for personal growth and development and play a significant role in shaping our lives.

Books offer a window into different worlds, cultures, and perspectives, allowing us to broaden our understanding of the world and expand our horizons. They also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, providing us with the guidance and encouragement we need to pursue our dreams and goals.

Books also play a critical role in our intellectual and emotional development. Reading books can help improve our vocabulary, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They can also enhance our creativity and imagination and help us understand complex ideas and concepts.

Moreover, books provide a unique form of escape from the stress and pressures of daily life. They allow us to escape into a different world, and in doing so, help us relieve stress, reduce anxiety, and improve our mental health.

In today’s world, books are more important than ever. They offer a wealth of information and knowledge that is essential for personal and professional growth. They also help us understand and navigate the complexities of the world around us, making us better informed and equipped to face the challenges of daily life.

In conclusion, books are an essential part of our lives, serving as a source of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment. They play a vital role in shaping our thoughts, opinions, and values, and help us grow and develop both intellectually and emotionally.

Long Essay On Why Are Books So Important In Our Life

Books have been a part of human life since the dawn of history. They provide us with knowledge, wisdom and a unique perspective on the world around us. In this essay, we explore why books are so essential to our lives and how they can help us grow as individuals. From providing entertainment to giving insight into different cultures, discover why books are irreplaceable in our lives.

Introduction

Books are an important part of our life for many reasons. They can provide us with knowledge, entertainment and a way to escape from the everyday world. They can also help us to develop our imagination and creativity.

Many people believe that books are a vital part of education and that they should be encouraged in schools. Books can teach us about different cultures, history and other countries. They can also inspire us to change the world or make it a better place.

Books can be a great source of comfort when we are feeling lonely or sad. They can also be a fun way to spend some time when we are bored. Sometimes, all we need is a good book to curl up with and forget about our troubles for a while.

Advantages of Reading Books

Reading books has many advantages. First, reading helps improve your concentration and focus. Second, reading strengthens your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Third, reading develops your imagination and creativity. Fourth, reading enhances your vocabulary and communication skills. Fifth, reading can relieve stress and relax your mind. Sixth, reading can help you learn about other cultures and gain new perspectives. Finally, reading is a great way to improve your memory and brain power.

Books as an Educational Tool

Books are an excellent way to learn new information. They can be used to teach people about different topics, including history, science, and mathematics. Books can also be used as a tool to promote critical thinking and analysis. In addition, books can be used to entertain and inspire people of all ages.

The Impact of Books on Society and Culture

Books provide a unique perspective on the world and can be a powerful force for good in society. They can educate, entertain, and inspire people of all ages, from all walks of life.

Books can have a profound impact on culture and society. They can help shape public opinion and discourse, challenge existing assumptions and beliefs, and promote new ways of thinking about the world. In recent years, we have seen an explosion of books that deal with social and cultural issues, such as race, gender, sexuality, religion, and politics. These books can be incredibly influential in shaping our understanding of these complex issues and helping to create a more just and equitable society.

The Role of Books in Personal Development

Books have always been an important part of our personal development. They provide us with information and knowledge that we can use to improve our lives. They also offer us a way to escape from the everyday world and explore new ideas and concepts.

Books can be used to develop any number of personal skills, from communication and leadership to time management and problem solving. They can also help us learn about other cultures and worlds, which can make us more tolerant and understanding people. Reading books is one of the best ways to gain new perspectives and open our minds to new possibilities.

In addition to all of these personal benefits, books can also be a great source of entertainment. They can provide us with hours of enjoyment and relaxation, which is important for maintaining our mental health and wellbeing. Whether we are reading for pleasure or learning something new, books offer us a unique opportunity to engage our minds and improve our lives.

Benefits of Reading Books for Mental Health

Books are often seen as a source of escape from the stresses of everyday life, but they can also offer insights into our mental health. Reading can provide a much-needed distraction from intrusive thoughts and worries, and can help to boost our mood and confidence. In addition, books can help us to understand ourselves and others better, which can lead to improved relationships.

Entertainment Value of Books

Books provide us with a never-ending source of entertainment. We can read them over and over again, and each time we will find new things to enjoy. They can take us to different worlds, introduce us to new characters, and make us laugh or cry. They are the perfect way to escape from reality, and they can be used as a form of relaxation. Books are also a great way to learn new things, and they can teach us about history, science, or any other topic that we are interested in.

Books have been an integral part of our lives for centuries. They provide us with knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration that can shape us into better versions of ourselves. With books at our disposal, there is no limit to what we can learn or discover about the world around us. We should never forget the power of literature and always strive to read more in order to stay informed and inspired so that we may keep growing as individuals.

Manisha Dubey Jha

Manisha Dubey Jha is a skilled educational content writer with 5 years of experience. Specializing in essays and paragraphs, she’s dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that enriches learning experiences.

Related Posts

Essay on importance of yoga, essay on cow, climate change essay, essay on slaver, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Competitive career exams

why books are important in our life essay

Why Reading is Important in Our Life: Uncovering 20 Benefits of Reading

Dr. Usmangani Ansari

Why Reading is Important in Our Life: Reading is often described as a window to see the world around. It’s a fundamental skill that opens doors to knowledge, imagination, and personal growth. From the moment we pick up our first book, reading becomes an integral part of our lives, shaping our thoughts, perspectives, and understanding of the world around us. In this blog we have discussed about the importance of reading in life, exploring the many invaluable benefits it offers to all who practice it regularly.

“Reading habit opens the door to learn anything about everything and everything about anything.” __ Dr. Md. Usmangani Ansari

Table of Contents

why-reading-is-important-in-our-life

What is the Concept of Reading?

The concept of reading involves the interpretation and comprehension of written or printed content or symbols to extract meaning from a text. It encompasses decoding written language, understanding context, and making connections with prior knowledge.

Reading is not limited to decoding words; it also involves critical thinking, analyzing ideas, and inferring information. It is a gateway to knowledge, imagination, and personal growth. In essence, reading is the process of absorbing and interpreting written information, which serves as a bridge to acquiring knowledge, exploring new worlds, and enhancing one’s cognitive abilities. That’s why world’s renowned people read every day.

What is Importance of Reading in Changing Your Life

The importance of reading in changing your life cannot be overstated. Reading expands your knowledge, broadens your perspective, and stimulates your brain to imagine. It offers insights from diverse voices and concepts, allowing you to understand different cultures and viewpoints. 

Reading is important in our life to inspire personal growth, enhance critical thinking, and nurtures empathy. It empowers you to learn, adapt, and make informed decisions. Through reading books of diverse nature, you can access the wisdom of the ages, learn from the experiences of others, and embark on transformative journeys. In essence, reading is a powerful tool that can reshape your mind, your choices, and ultimately, your life.

Why Reading is Important in Our Life: 20 Key Benefits

Amidst the numerous less conspicuous and intangible reasons that underscore the importance of reading, a few shine particularly bright. These reasons possess the potential to not only transform our individual lives but also influence the trajectory of our collective history as a society. Some of the key benefits of why reading is important in our life are:

1. Reading is Important for Knowledge Acquisition

One of the most apparent benefits of reading is its role as a vehicle for acquiring knowledge. Books, magazines, articles, and various forms of written material are repositories of information on countless subjects and required topics. Whether you’re interested in history, science, philosophy, or any other topic, reading allows you to access a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips.

2. Reading is Important in Vocabulary Expansion

Reading exposes us to new words and phrases, enriching our vocabulary. The more we read, the more words we encounter in different contexts. This expanded vocabulary not only enhances our ability to express ourselves but also improves our comprehension of complex texts.

3. Reading is Important for Improving Focus and Concentration

Reading plays a pivotal role in enhancing focus and concentration. In a world filled with distractions, the act of reading demands our undivided attention. It requires us to immerse ourselves in the text, blocking out external disruptions. Over time, this practice strengthens our ability to concentrate on tasks, both in reading and in other aspects of life. 

Reading is a mental exercise that bolsters our attention span, ultimately improving productivity, academic performance, and the quality of our work. That’s why reading is important in our life as  a valuable tool for sharpening the mind and honing the skill of unwavering concentration.

4. Reading is Important in Enhancing Imagination

Reading fiction and other forms of creative writing stimulates our imagination. It’s a gateway to boundless imagination. When we dive into a book, our minds embark on journeys to uncharted territories, guided only by words on a page. Whether it’s a fantastical realm in a novel or the vivid description of a historical event, reading prompts us to visualize, create, and dream. Reading is important in our life as it ignites the imaginative spark within us.

As we immerse ourselves in stories, we mentally construct characters, settings, and scenarios, breathing life into the narrative. This mental exercise not only entertains but also enriches our creativity. It fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging us to explore new ideas and possibilities. 

In a world often constrained by reality, reading is important in liberating our minds to soar beyond the limits of the ordinary, making it an indispensable tool for enhancing our imagination. This imaginative exercise can be immensely enjoyable and helps keep our creative faculties active.

Also Read: Why do we waste time – Uncovering the reasons

5. Reading is Important for Stress Reduction

Reading is important in our life as a powerful tool for stress reduction that can soothe the mind and reduce anxiety. Engaging with a good book, magazine, or even a well-written article can transport you to a different world, providing a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life. When we read, our minds focus on the words, allowing us to temporarily forget about our worries and anxieties. This mental shift can significantly reduce stress levels.

Moreover, reading promotes relaxation. As we immerse ourselves in a captivating story, our bodies tend to relax, and our heart rates decrease. This physical response contributes to a sense of calm and tranquility. Additionally, reading is important in improving sleep quality , another crucial aspect of stress management.

Incorporating regular reading habits into your routine can be a simple yet effective way to combat stress. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or even poetry, the act of reading is important which offers a respite from life’s demands and supports mental well-being.

6. Reading is Important in Fostering Empathy and Understanding

Reading is important in our life which plays a pivotal role in fostering empathy and understanding among individuals. When we dive into the lives and experiences of fictional or real characters in books, we gain a unique window into different perspectives and cultures. This exposure to diverse viewpoints cultivates empathy by helping us relate to the struggles, triumphs, and emotions of others, even if they are vastly different from our own.

Furthermore, reading non-fiction and informative texts broadens our knowledge and understanding of complex issues, making us better-informed and more empathetic global citizens. As we encounter different cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies on the page, we develop a more nuanced perspective, reducing prejudice and bias. Thus, habits of reading are so important which made Bill Gates and Warren Buffet the most known philanthropists in the world. 

In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to empathize and understand different viewpoints is crucial. Reading is a gateway to this essential skill, allowing us to bridge gaps, connect with others, and create a more compassionate and inclusive society.

7. Reading is Important in Cognitive Stimulation

Reading is important in our life as the most powerful tool for cognitive stimulation and mental agility. Reading challenges our brains. It requires us to process information, make connections, and draw conclusions. When we read, our brains engage in a complex process of decoding words, comprehending meaning, and visualizing scenes, which stimulates various cognitive functions. This mental workout is like exercise for the brain, helping to maintain and improve cognitive abilities.

As we age, reading can be a safeguard against cognitive decline, potentially reducing the risk of conditions like dementia . Whether you’re enjoying fiction, non-fiction, or academic texts, reading is a fundamental way to keep your mind sharp and continuously expand your mental horizons.

8. Reading is Important in Lifelong Learning

Reading is a cornerstone of lifelong learning. It empowers individuals to acquire knowledge, explore new ideas, and stay intellectually engaged throughout their lives. Books, articles, and other written materials serve as valuable resources, enabling us to delve into subjects ranging from science and history to art and philosophy. 

If we understand the importance of reading, we can keep pace with the ever-evolving world, adapt to new technologies, and enhance our problem-solving skills. Reading is important in our life which fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge that transcends age. Lifelong learners recognize that the pursuit of wisdom and understanding is a lifelong journey, and reading is the compass that guides them on this enriching path of continuous education.

9. Reading is Important to Improve Writing Skills

Reading and writing are closely intertwined. The more we read, the better equipped we become to express our thoughts and ideas in writing. Reading is important in our life because it is indispensable for honing writing skills. Exposure to diverse writing styles, genres, and perspectives enriches vocabulary, grammar, and overall language proficiency. When we read widely, we internalize effective writing techniques, enhancing our ability to articulate thoughts coherently.

Books, articles, and literary works provide valuable insights into storytelling, structure, and persuasive communication. They serve as mentors, inspiring creativity and originality in our own writing endeavors. Regular reading not only fuels inspiration but also instills an intuitive sense of syntax and rhythm, leading to more engaging and persuasive prose.

In essence, reading is important as a foundation upon which exceptional writing is built. The more we read, the better equipped we become to convey our ideas effectively and connect with readers on a deeper level.

10. Reading is Important for Critical Thinking

Reading is important and essential for nurturing critical thinking skills. It encourages us to analyze, evaluate, and question the information presented in written texts. When we engage with various sources and perspectives, we learn to discern between fact and opinion, identify logical fallacies, and make well-informed judgments.

Books, articles, and research materials challenge our assumptions, stimulating intellectual growth. They offer opportunities to develop a skeptical mindset, fostering the ability to think independently and critically assess arguments and evidence. Reading is important as it also enhances problem-solving abilities to process and synthesize information.

In a world filled with information, reading equips us with the tools to navigate complexity and make informed decisions, making it an indispensable ally in the development of robust critical thinking skills.

11. Reading is Important for Personal Growth

Reading is a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Reading is important in our life to open doors to new ideas, perspectives, and knowledge, allowing individuals to continuously evolve. Through books, articles, and literature, we gain insights into the human experience, fostering empathy and self-awareness.

Reading self-help and motivational literature can inspire positive change, while biographies of great individuals provide valuable lessons in resilience and determination. Additionally, exploring different cultures and philosophies broadens our horizons and enriches our worldview.

In the pursuit of personal growth, reading is important as an inexhaustible resource. It nurtures intellectual curiosity, encourages introspection, and empowers individuals to adapt, learn, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

12. Reading is Important for Connection to the Past and Future

Reading is important as a bridge that connects us to the past and propels us into the future. Through historical texts, we gain insights into the wisdom, achievements, and mistakes of those who came before us, preserving our collective heritage. It’s a time machine that transports us to different eras and cultures, fostering a deeper understanding of human history.

Simultaneously, reading serves as a gateway to the future. By exploring scientific advancements, futuristic fiction, and visionary essays, we envision what lies ahead. It inspires innovation, fuels our aspirations, and propels us toward a better tomorrow. In this way, reading is a timeless, invaluable tool that binds us to our roots while propelling us forward.

13. Reading is Important for Entertainment and Escapism

Reading serves as a captivating form of entertainment and a vehicle for escapism. When we dive into the pages of a gripping novel, we’re transported to alternate worlds, where we can temporarily escape the demands of reality. Fictional characters become our companions, and their adventures provide a thrilling escape from the mundane.

Furthermore, reading is important as it offers diverse genres, from suspenseful mysteries to heartwarming romances, catering to varied tastes. It ignites our imagination, engages our emotions, and provides a sense of joy and relaxation. In an age of screens and constant stimulation, the simple pleasure of getting lost in a good book remains a cherished form of entertainment and a refuge for the weary soul.

14. Reading is Important for Developing Communication Skills

Reading is a cornerstone for developing strong communication skills. It exposes us to rich vocabularies, diverse sentence structures, and effective writing styles. When we read widely, we absorb these linguistic nuances, improving our own ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly.

Additionally, reading is important to hone our understanding of context and tone, essential for effective communication. It also enhances our grasp of storytelling and persuasion, enabling us to engage and connect with others more effectively. Whether it’s through eloquent speeches, persuasive essays, or everyday conversations, the communication skills cultivated through reading are invaluable, empowering us to convey messages with precision and impact.

15. Reading is Important for Social Connection

Reading fosters social connection by providing common ground for conversations and shared experiences. Book clubs, literary discussions, and online reading communities thrive on the bonds formed through discussing characters, plots, and themes. Reading the same book as a friend or family member creates opportunities for meaningful dialogues and shared emotions.

Moreover, reading is important as the literature we read enables us to empathize with diverse characters, enhancing our understanding of different perspectives and cultures. This empathy, gained through reading, strengthens our ability to relate to and connect with people from various backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and forging deeper social connections. Reading, in all its forms, becomes a conduit for bringing individuals closer together.

16. Reading is Important for Inspiration and Motivation

Reading is a wellspring of inspiration and motivation. It exposes us to the triumphs, struggles, and wisdom of others, igniting our own ambitions. Biographies of remarkable individuals, self-help books, and motivational literature offer guidance and encouragement, propelling us to chase our dreams.

Through powerful narratives and life lessons, reading is important as it rejuvenates our spirits during challenging times. It stokes the fires of creativity, driving us to think innovatively and pursue our passions. Whether it’s a riveting novel, a twhought-provoking essay, or an inspiring poem, reading has the unparalleled ability to kindle the spark of motivation within us, empowering us to reach new heights in our personal and professional lives.

Important article: How to make leisure time productive – 8 ways guide

17. Reading is Important for Cultural Awareness

Reading is a gateway to cultural awareness. It allows us to explore the rich tapestry of human diversity, fostering a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and worldviews. Literature from various cultures provides unique insights into the values, beliefs, and historical contexts that shape societies.

By immersing ourselves in these narratives, we develop empathy and respect for cultural differences. This awareness promotes inclusivity, reduces prejudice, and enhances our ability to navigate an increasingly globalized world. Reading is important for broadening our horizons and connects us to the shared human experience, encouraging a more culturally sensitive and harmonious society. In essence, it serves as a powerful tool for bridging cultural gaps and promoting unity in diversity .

18. Reading is Important for Time Management

Reading is important in our life as it enhances time management by sharpening focus and discipline. It’s a reminder that self-improvement and leisure are important aspects of a balanced life. Allocating time for reading can help us prioritize what truly matters. Prioritizing reading, even in short sessions, encourages efficient use of downtime. Reading helps optimize time by enriching the mind while managing the clock.

19. Reading is Important for Making Bonding with Others

Reading creates connections with others by providing common ground for discussions and shared interests. Book clubs, literary circles, or simply recommending a good book can spark meaningful conversations and strengthen relationships. It fosters empathy as you explore characters’ experiences, making it easier to relate to and bond with others.

20. Reading is Important as a Source of Solace

In difficult times, reading books can be a source of solace. They provide comfort, wisdom, and a sense of companionship when we need it most. Whether facing personal challenges or global crises, literature has the power to offer solace and hope. So reading is important in our life’s multidimensional activities to  escape from the world’s pressures.

Why Reading is Important for Children

Reading is paramount for children as it cultivates essential skills and opens doors to a world of knowledge and imagination. It enhances language development, vocabulary, and comprehension. Moreover, it fosters creativity and critical thinking, encouraging kids to question, analyze, and explore. Beyond academics, reading instills empathy by introducing them to diverse characters and cultures by reading diverse nature of topics in their academic books.

Reading is important for children as a lifelong love which not only boosts academic success but also nurtures a lifelong habit of learning. It’s a source of joy, offering an escape into different realms. Ultimately, reading equips children with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the world and become informed, empathetic, and intellectually curious individuals.

Why Reading is Important for Students

Reading is a cornerstone of student success. It enhances literacy skills, expanding vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking. Beyond academics, it sparks curiosity, stimulates imagination, and fosters a lifelong love for learning. Through books, students can explore diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, nurturing empathy and open-mindedness. 

Reading is a fundamental research tool, aiding in assignments and expanding knowledge. Reading is important for students as it also offers a healthy escape, reducing stress, and improving mental well-being. Ultimately, reading equips students with the intellectual tools they need to excel academically, embrace creativity, and navigate the complexities of the world with confidence and insight.

Why Reading is Important for Exam Preparation

Reading is a linchpin of effective exam preparation. It’s a primary means of absorbing and retaining critical information, improving comprehension, and enhancing memory. Whether textbooks, study guides, or supplementary materials, reading helps students grasp complex concepts and reinforce subject knowledge. 

Moreover, reading is important for exam preparation as it fosters disciplined study habits, aids in information organization, and sharpens critical thinking skills—essential for acing exams. Through active reading, highlighting, and note-taking, students engage with their study materials more deeply, increasing their chances of success. In essence, reading is an indispensable tool that empowers students to approach exams with confidence, competence, and a solid foundation of knowledge.

Why Reading is Important in Our Life: Conclusion

The importance of reading in life cannot be overstated. It is a multifaceted activity that enriches our minds, broadens our horizons, and enhances our quality of life. Reading is a lifelong journey, and the benefits it offers are both immediate and enduring.

So, whether you’re a devoted bookworm or someone looking to read more, remember that each page turned is a step toward personal growth, knowledge, and a deeper understanding of the world. In the words of Dr. Seuss, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” Embrace the world of books, for it has the power to transform your life in countless ways.

Related Article: Why time is important in our life and success – Unveiling P2F reasons

FAQs on Why Reading is Important in Our Life

Q. What are 5 benefits of reading?

Ans. 5 benefits of reading are:

  • Knowledge acquisition
  • Improved vocabulary
  • Enhanced empathy
  • Stress reduction
  • Cognitive stimulation

Q. Why is reading important in our life essay?

Ans. Reading is vital as it expands knowledge, enhances communication skills, fosters empathy, offers solace, and promotes lifelong learning and personal growth.

Q. What is the main purpose of reading?

Ans. The primary purpose of reading is to acquire knowledge, gain information, and engage with the thoughts and ideas of others.

Q. Why is reading important in our lives?

Ans. Reading is crucial as it broadens our knowledge, enhances communication skills, fosters empathy, reduces stress, and promotes personal growth.

Q. How does reading benefit cognitive abilities?

Ans. Reading stimulates the brain, improving vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking, thus enhancing cognitive abilities.

Q. Can reading improve our communication skills?

Ans. Yes, reading exposes us to diverse language patterns and styles, which ultimately enhances our communication skills.

Q. How does reading help in reducing stress?

Ans. Engaging in a good book provides an escape from daily stresses, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.

Q. How can reading contribute to cultural awareness?

Ans. Reading exposes us to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences, fostering cultural awareness and understanding .

IMPORTANCE OF READING IN CHANGING YOUR LIFE   WHY READING IS IMPORTANT FOR STUDENTS READING IS IMPORTANT IN OUR LIFE    WHY READING IS IMPORTANT FOR EXAM PREPARATION

Recent Posts

Unlock Central Sector Scholarship Scheme 2024 with application form, deadlines, and scholarship amounts for financial aid in higher education!

Explore the latest national scholarship scheme 2024, offering financial support to deserving students across various educational levels and fields of study.

Discover NSP Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2024 with academic, income, category, enrollment requirements, vital for accessing educational grants…

Explore NSP Scholarship Portal 2024 with login, eligibility, online form, and last date to unlock opportunities for education through this guide.

Discover why discipline is important in students life for academic success, personal growth, and improved learning experiences. Explore 15 key reasons…

Discover top 19 important self-discipline skills crucial for career advancement, like time management, resilience, strategies for professional growth…

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

CbseAcademic.in

Essay on Importance of Books 200+ Words

Books have been our faithful companions for centuries, providing knowledge, inspiration, and escape. They are more than mere objects with pages; they are windows to the world and portals to imagination. In this essay, we will delve into the profound importance of books in our lives, touching on their role in education, personal growth, and the preservation of knowledge.

The Gateway to Knowledge

Books are repositories of knowledge, offering insights into a wide range of subjects. They serve as valuable educational tools, helping us learn about history, science, literature, and much more.

Fueling Imagination

Books are a playground for our imagination. Through stories and adventures, they transport us to different worlds, letting us experience the extraordinary and the unknown.

The Joy of Reading

Reading is a source of joy and entertainment. Whether it’s a gripping mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thrilling fantasy, books cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Building Vocabulary and Language Skills

Reading books enhances our vocabulary and language skills. Exposure to varied writing styles and language usage helps us become better communicators and writers.

A Window to History

Historical books allow us to explore the past and understand how societies and cultures have evolved over time. They provide valuable lessons and insights from our predecessors.

Lifelong Learning

Books are not limited to formal education. Throughout our lives, we can continue learning and growing through reading, staying curious and informed about the world.

Empathy and Understanding

Books, especially fiction, help us develop empathy and understanding for others. They introduce us to diverse characters and perspectives, broadening our horizons.

Preservation of Culture and Heritage

Books are essential for preserving cultural heritage. They document the stories, traditions, and wisdom of different communities, ensuring that they are not lost to time.

Expert Opinions and References

Books written by experts serve as references for professionals in various fields. They provide in-depth knowledge and insights that are invaluable for research and study.

Conclusion of Essay on Importance of Books

In conclusion, the importance of books cannot be overstated. They are the vessels of knowledge, the keys to imagination, and the guardians of our cultural heritage. Books educate, inspire, and entertain, making them indispensable in our lives. As we turn their pages, we embark on journeys of discovery, empathy, and growth. It is crucial that we continue to embrace books and promote a reading culture, for they hold the power to shape not only our individual lives but also the collective knowledge and wisdom of humanity. Books are the silent companions that accompany us through every stage of life, offering solace, guidance, and endless opportunities for enlightenment. Let us treasure and celebrate the profound importance of books, for they are a gift that keeps on giving, a source of endless wonder, and a testament to the enduring power of words.

Also Check: The Essay on Essay: All you need to know

Become a Writer Today

Essays About Books: Top 5 Examples and Writing Prompts

Books open portals to new worlds and display new knowledge inspired from the old to the new. Here are some published essays about books and prompts you can use.

Books are a way for the past to teach the present and preserve the present for the future. Books come in all shapes and sizes. In addition, technology has improved the way books can be accessed with eBooks and audiobooks that are more accessible and hassle-free to use. 

No matter what genre, a book aids its readers in gaining valuable knowledge, improving vocabulary, and many more. Following are 5 essays with books as their subject:

1. Why Are Books So Important in Our Life by Ankita Yadav

2. essay on books for students by kanak mishra, 3. listening to books by maggie gram, 4. short essay on books and reading by sastry, 5. long essay on books by ram, 1. do we still need libraries, 2. the names an author gives to their characters, 3. do you read or write, 4. your favorite book, 5. books and inspirations, 6. the book cover, 7. paper books vs. digital copies, 8. why read the book you hate, 9. the book is better than the movie.

“Books are the best companions in our life. They never leave us alone and are like our best friends.”

For Yadav, a book is someone’s best friend, guide, all-time teacher, and keeper of various information. The essay talks about how reading a physical book is better than watching movies or using modern technologies for entertainment and learning purposes. The author also believes that autobiography books of great people inspire students and motivate them to work hard to achieve their goals in life.

“Though the technology has so much changed that we can take information about anything through internet… importance of books has not decreased…”

The writer describes books as the best option for self-learners. They don’t only note an issue, topic, or story but also put effort and emotions into their writing. Next, she discusses the types of books and their subcategories. Finally, she gives tips about finding a good book to read.

“The possibility of reading while also doing something else produces one of the stranger phenomenological characteristics of audio book reading: you can have a whole set of unrelated and real (if only partially attended) experiences while simultaneously experiencing a book.”

Gram’s primary focus in this essay is audiobooks, discussing their history and how audiobooks started. She also mentions how audiobooks help blind people who find it challenging to read braille books. The author also compares physical books and audiobooks to help the reader choose better for a long drive, house cleaning, or simply doing anything other than reading. 

“Books are standing counsellors and preachers, always at hand and always neutral.”

Sastry considers novels the best option when one is tired and looking for healthy recreational activity. Still, the author didn’t forget the fact that reading history, science, religion, and other more “serious” books can also bring gratification to their readers. Books offer unlimited benefits if well used, but not when abused, and as the writer said, “no book can be good if studied negligently.”

“Books are important because they provide a few things that are key to an open and intelligent society.”

The essay is best to be read by students from classes 7 to 10, as it gives the simplest explanation of why it is vital to read a book during their spare time or extended holidays. Ram says people get inspired and receive life lessons by reading books. Reading classic and newer books with lots of words of wisdom and new ideas are better than wasting time and learning nothing.

Are you looking for writing applications to help you improve your essay? See the seven best essay writing apps to use.

Top 10 Writing Prompts on Essays About Books

Writing essays about books can be easy as many subtopics exist. However, it can also be challenging to pick a specific subcategory. To help you narrow it down, here are ten easy writing prompts that you can use.

Essays About Books: Do We Still Need Libraries?

Libraries help many people – from bibliophiles to job seekers and students. They offer free access to books, newspapers, and computers. But with modern devices making it easier to get information, are libraries still needed? Use this prompt to discuss the importance of libraries and the consequences if all of them close down.

Some authors like to give their characters very unusual names, such as “America Singer” from the book The Selection by Keira Cass. Do you think characters having strange names take away the reader’s attention to the plot? Does it make the book more interesting or odd? Suppose you are writing a story; how do you name the characters and why?

They say writers need readers and vice versa, but which role do you find more challenging? Is writing harder than finding the best book, story, and poetry to read? 

Use this prompt to describe their roles and explain how readers and writers hold each other up.

Essays About Books: Your Favorite Book

There is always a unique book that one will never forget. What is your favorite book of all time, and why? Write an essay about why you consider that book your favorite. You can also persuade others to try to read it. 

If you have more than one preference, describe them and tell the readers why you can’t choose between your favorite books. Check out these essays about literature .

Authors inspiring their readers to try something new by reading their book are not always intentional but usually happens. Have you ever experienced wanting to move to a new place or change career paths after reading something? 

Use this prompt to share your experience and opinion on readers who make significant life changes because books and characters influence them in a story.

Have you ever gone to a book shop to find a book recommended to you but didn’t buy or read it because of the cover? They said never judge a book by its cover. In this prompt, you can.

Share what you think the book is all about based on its cover. Then, make a follow-up writing if you were right or wrong after reading the book’s contents.

Studies confirmed more benefits to reading physical books than digital books, such as retaining information longer if read from a printed copy. Are you more of a traditional or modern reader? Use this prompt to explain your answer and briefly discuss the pros and cons of each type of book in your opinion.

Are you ever tasked to read a book you don’t like? Share your experience and tell the reader if you finished the book, learned anything from it, and what it feels like to force yourself to read a book you hate. You can also add if you come to like it in the end.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter is undisputedly one of the most popular books turned into movies. However, avid readers consider books better than movies because they can echo the main protagonist’s thoughts.

Do you have a favorite book adapted into a film? Did you like it? Write about what makes the movie version better or underwhelming. You can also include why movies are more limited than books. 

Do you still feel like there is something wrong with your essay? Here is a guide about grammar and punctuation to help you.

If you still need help, our guide to grammar and syntax explains more.

why books are important in our life essay

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

View all posts

Bookish Wisdom

26 Reasons Why Books are Important in Our Life

It’s no secret that books are important. For centuries, they have been used to educate, inform, and entertain people of all ages. But what is it about books that makes them so special? Why are they such an essential part of our lives?

Many people argue that books are no longer necessary in our life. They believe that books have become irrelevant with the invention of the internet and other electronic devices. However, this is not true. Books are still very important. Here is a list of 26 reasons why books are so crucial: 

Importance of Books in Our Life

1. Reading books helps us escape from reality and explore different worlds : We all need a break from reality every once in a while. And what better way to do that than by escaping into a good book? Reading takes us to a different world, introduces us to new characters, and lets us explore the different worlds of wisdom. It’s the perfect way to get away from the real world for a little while.

2. Books help us learn about new things, people, and cultures : When we read books, we learn about new things, people, and cultures. We can explore different parts of the world without ever leaving our homes. We can also learn about historical events and different ways of life. This helps us understand other people better and makes us more tolerant and open-minded.

Moreover, books can teach us about different subjects that we are interested in. For example, if you are a history lover, you can read books about different periods of history. If you are into science, you can read books about the universe and space. This way, we can learn more about the things that interest us and broaden our knowledge. So, You can learn anything with a book.

3. Books can inspire us to be better people and achieve our goals : Books are our best friend. But how? A well-written book has the ability to inspire us to be better people and achieve our goals, just like a best friend do. It can show us that anything is possible if we set our mind to it, and give us the motivation we need to keep pushing forward.

Whether it’s a biography about someone who has faced great adversity and succeeded, or a novel about somebody who has overcome great obstacles, reading about these types of characters can help us to believe in ourselves and our own abilities. We can learn from their mistakes and successes, and use this knowledge to make positive changes in our own lives.

4. Books are a form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by all ages : Entertainment is one of the main reasons why books are important in our life. With books, we can explore a lot of things. And there are books for all ages. So, books can be a great form of entertainment for all ages.

5. Books can be a form of relief from the stresses of daily life : For some people, reading books can be a great way to relieve stress. People can lose themselves in a good book and forget about the troubles of the world. This can be a much-needed break from the stress of daily life.

6. Reading Books can improve vocabulary : We all know that reading is important, but what many of us may not realize is just how beneficial it can be for our vocabulary. A study by the National Literacy Trust found that children who read for pleasure are more likely to have a larger vocabulary than their peers who don’t read for pleasure. In fact, the study found that the average 10-year-old’s vocabulary was almost twice as large as the average 10-year-old who doesn’t read for pleasure.

7. They can provide interesting and unique perspectives on the world around us : We can learn about other cultures and lifestyles from books, which can help us to understand and appreciate other people more. Additionally, books can introduce new and fascinating ideas that we may have never otherwise considered. They can give us a new perspective on the world and life. This can be incredibly valuable, especially if you are looking for ways to improve yourselves as individuals.

8. Reading books improve our knowledge : We can improve our knowledge and skills by reading books. Even before the internet, books were one of the best ways to learn new things. We can learn communication skills, analytical skills, or any kind of skills by getting more knowledge from books. This is because books contain a vast amount of information on various topics. Thus, Books play a significant role in Student’s life and professional life.

Additionally, books often include examples and case studies that can help us to better understand the concepts that are being discussed. By reading books, we can learn new things and improve our existing knowledge and skills.

9. They promote creativity and imagination : One of the best things about books is that they help promote creativity and imagination. When you’re reading a book, you can imagine what the characters look like, what their voices sound like, and where the story is taking place. This helps to stimulate your imagination and can also lead to some creative ideas of your own.

10. Books can open our minds to new possibilities : One of the best things about books is that they can introduce us to new worlds and possibilities that we never knew existed. They can take us on adventures to far-off places or into the lives of fascinating people who we would have never met otherwise. Reading also helps us learn about different cultures, religions, and ways of life, which can help to expand our horizons and make us more humble and hopefully a better person.

11. They help us develop our critical thinking skills : One of the most important benefits that books offer is their ability to improve critical thinking skills. Critical thinking is a necessary skill for success in any field, and books are one of the best ways to develop it. By reading books on various subjects, you can learn how to think analytically and critically about information. This will help you in all aspects of your life, from making decisions to solving problems.

Read Also : Best Books for Organizing your life

12. Books are a great way to pass time : Books are a great way to relax. They can help us escape from reality for a while and enjoy the story. This can be especially helpful if we’re feeling stressed or anxious.

Books can also keep us entertained. There are so many different types of books out there, and they can all be enjoyable to read. It’s a great way to pass the time and learn new things.

13. They are a great way to improve our literacy skills : Books are a great way to improve our literacy skills. Not only do they help us improve our reading skills, but they also help us develop our vocabulary and writing abilities/skills. This is because books often contain more complex words than we would typically use in everyday conversation.

14. Books can help us sleep better : Studies have shown that reading before bed can help you sleep better at night. The reason is that it takes your mind off of things that are stressing you out and relaxes you. This leads to a more restful sleep. So if you’re having trouble sleeping, consider reading a book before bed instead of watching TV or using your phone.

15. Books can make us smarter and more knowledgeable : One of the main reasons books are so important in our lives is that they can make us smarter and more knowledgeable. As we read, we absorb information and knowledge that can help us grow as individuals.

19. Books can boost our self-confidence : Books are a source of self-confidence for many people. Reading books can make anyone see the world from a different perspective. This can make us feel more confident.

20. Books can help us develop our own opinions on important topics : Most people form their opinions about the world based on what they see and hear from other people. However, books can help us develop our own perspective on important topics. We can read about different viewpoints and learn more about the world around us. This can help us make informed decisions about the things that matter to us.

21. How Books can help us understand ourselves and the world around : Reading books can help you gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us, and this can be a valuable tool for growth and enrichment. By learning different new things, you will be able to reflect the wisdom in your own lives and see them in a new light.

22. How Books Improve attention span, focus, and concentration level : There are a lot of studies that suggest that books are beneficial for improving attention span, focus, and concentration level. When you read, you have to be focused in order to follow the story. You can’t let your mind wander or you will lose track of what is happening. This focus and concentration carry over into other areas of your life. If you are able to focus on your work and stay concentrated, you will be more productive.

Attention span is also important. If you can focus on a task for a longer period of time, you will be able to get more done. Reading is one way to help improve both of these skills.

23. Books are a great source to learn from mentors : When we read books, we learn from some of the greatest minds in history. These people are hard to reach out to, but that’s not a problem because they continue to teach us through their books. This is tremendously helpful for young people who are trying to find their way in life. They can learn about different career paths, personal growth, and more.

Books can also help us connect with our ancestors and learn about their lives. This can be really interesting and valuable, especially if we don’t have any family members who are still alive. Overall, books are a great way to learn from the experiences and wisdom of others, regardless of when they lived.

24. Books Improve your mental health : Mental health is just as important as physical health, and books play a role in improving mental health. When you read, you expose your mind to new ideas and concepts. This can help stimulate your brain and improve your mental health.

25. Reading books makes you humble : You learn about different cultures and life lessons when you read books. You also learn about the accomplishments and failures of other people. This can make you humble and teach you that you are not the center of the universe.

26. Books help us connect with other people : Reading books can make you humble. By interacting with different characters and perspectives, you can start to see the world in a new light. This can show you that there is always more to learn, making you open-minded and willing to listen to others. So next time you’re feeling prideful, try reaching for a book instead.

26. Books are important to get success in career : Books will help you reach your ultimate goal in life. This is because books provide you with the knowledge and wisdom needed to succeed. Plus, they give you the motivation to keep going when times are tough. So if you want to achieve success in life, make sure to read lots of books!

Conclusion:

If you are an avid reader you probably already know the life importance of reading books. Reading from an early age is probably the best thing one can do.

Books are our best friends and can teach us new things. Whether it’s a nonfiction book about history or science, or a novel that takes us into another world, books can introduce us to new concepts and ideas that we would never have thought of on our own. 

Books help us understand the world around us better. They give us perspectives that we wouldn’t otherwise have, and they help us see different sides of important issues. 

Books are entertaining. Nobody can deny that reading is enjoyable – especially when you’re engrossed in a good book! There are plethora of examples of why books are so important; this blog post is just a reflection of the reasons.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

why books are important in our life essay

why books are important in our life essay

bookishbytes.com

"Explore, Dream, Discover: The World Awaits in Every Page."

The Importance of Books in Our Life

The Importance of Books in Our Life

Books have always been an integral part of human civilization. They have been our companions in times of joy and sorrow, providing us with knowledge, wisdom, and solace. In today’s fast-paced digital age, the significance of books may seem to fade away, but they still hold a special place in our lives.

First and foremost, books are a treasure trove of knowledge. They contain information about various subjects, from history and science to literature and philosophy. Reading books expands our horizons, broadens our perspectives, and enhances our understanding of the world around us. They provide us with valuable insights and help us make informed decisions.

Moreover, books are a source of inspiration and creativity. They transport us to different worlds, introduce us to diverse characters, and ignite our imagination. Through books, we can experience adventures, solve mysteries, and explore new ideas. They stimulate our minds and foster our creativity.

Books also play a crucial role in our personal growth and development. They offer guidance, advice, and life lessons from experienced authors and experts. They teach us valuable skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. Reading books improves our vocabulary, enhances our writing skills, and boosts our overall cognitive abilities.

Furthermore, books are a means of relaxation and escape. They provide us with a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Curling up with a good book can be a therapeutic experience, helping us unwind and de-stress. It allows us to disconnect from technology and immerse ourselves in the captivating world of words.

In conclusion, books are not just mere objects made of paper and ink. They are gateways to knowledge, sources of inspiration, and catalysts for personal growth. They have the power to shape our thoughts, broaden our horizons, and transform our lives. So, let us cherish and embrace the magic of books, for they are truly indispensable in our journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Image of person reading a large book.

Why reading books is good for society, wellbeing and your career

why books are important in our life essay

Senior Lecturer with School of Economics, Finance and Marketing and Behavioural Business Lab Member, RMIT University

why books are important in our life essay

Postdoctoral research fellow, The University of Melbourne

why books are important in our life essay

Professor of Economics (Health Economist), RMIT University

Disclosure statement

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU.

RMIT University provides funding as a strategic partner of The Conversation AU.

View all partners

TikTok allows video up to 10 minutes, but says surveys show almost half its users are stressed by anything longer than a minute . An Instagram video can be up to 90 seconds, but experts reckon the ideal time to maximise engagement is less than 15 seconds . Twitter doubled the length of tweets in 2017 to 280 characters , but the typical length is more like 33 characters .

It’s easy to get sucked into short and sensational content. But if you’re worried this may be harming your attention span, you should be . There’s solid evidence that so many demands on our attention make us more stressed , and that the endless social comparison makes us feel worse about ourselves.

For better mental health, read a book.

Studies show a range of psychological benefits from book-reading. Reading fiction can increase your capacity for empathy , through the process of seeing the world through a relatable character. Reading has been found to reduce stress as effectively as yoga . It is being prescribed for depression – a treatment known as bibliotherapy .

Book-reading is also a strong marker of curiosity – a quality prized by employers such as Google. Our research shows reading is as strongly associated with curiosity as interest in science, and more strongly than mathematical ability.

And it’s not just that curious minds are more likely to read because of a thirst for knowledge and understanding. That happens too, but our research has specifically been to investigate the role of reading in the development of curious minds.

Read more: Too many digital distractions are eroding our ability to read deeply, and here's how we can become aware of what's happening — podcast

Tracking reading and curiosity

Our findings come from analysing data from the Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth , which tracks the progress of young Australians from the age of 15 till 25.

Longitudinal surveys provide valuable insights by surveying the same people – in this case a group of about 10,000 young people. Every year for ten years they are asked about their achievements, aspirations, education, employment and life satisfaction.

There have been five survey cohorts since 1998, the most recent starting in 2016. We analysed three of them – those beginning in 2003, 2006 and 2009, looking at the data up to age 20, at which age most have a job or are looking for one.

The survey data is rich enough to develop proxy measures of reading and curiosity levels. It includes participants’ scores in the OECD Programme for International Student Assessment tests for reading, mathematics and science ability. There are survey questions about time spent reading for pleasure, time reading newspapers or magazines, and library use.

To measure curiosity, we used respondents’ answers to questions about their interest in the following:

  • learning new things
  • thinking about why the world is in the state it is
  • finding out more about things you don’t understand
  • finding out about a new idea
  • finding out how something works.

We used statistical modelling to control for environmental and demographic variables and distinguish the effect of reading activity as a teenager on greater curiosity as a young adult. This modelling gives us confidence that reading is not just correlated with curiosity. Reading books helps build curiosity.

Book reading helps teenagers grow into more curious adults.

Gloom and doom-scrolling

Does this mean if you’re older that it’s too late to start reading? No. Our results relate to young people because the data was available. No matter what your age, deep reading has benefits over social-media scrolling.

The short-term dopamine rush of scrolling on a device is an elusive promise. It depletes rather than uplifts us. Our limbic brain – the part of the brain associated with our emotional and behavioural responses – remains trapped in a spiral of pleasure-seeking.

Studies show a high correlation between media multitasking and attention problems due to cognitive overload . The effect is most evident among young people, who have grown up with social media overexposure .

US social psychologist Jonathan Haidt is among the researchers warning that high social media use is a major contributor to declining mental health for teenage girls:

Boys are doing badly too, but their rates of depression and anxiety are not as high, and their increases since 2011 are smaller.

Why this “giant, obvious, international, and gendered cause”? Haidt writes:

Instagram was founded in 2010. The iPhone 4 was released then too — the first smartphone with a front-facing camera. In 2012 Facebook bought Instagram, and that’s the year that its user base exploded. By 2015, it was becoming normal for 12-year-old girls to spend hours each day taking selfies, editing selfies, and posting them for friends, enemies, and strangers to comment on, while also spending hours each day scrolling through photos of other girls and fabulously wealthy female celebrities with (seemingly) vastly superior bodies and lives.

In 2020 Haidt published research showing girls are more vulnerable to “fear of missing out” and the aggression that social media tends to amplify. Since then he’s become even more convinced of the correlation.

Social media, by design, is addictive.

With TikTok, for example, videos start automatically, based on what the algorithm already knows about you. But it doesn’t just validate your preferences and feed you opinions that confirm your biases. It also varies the content so you don’t know what is coming next. This is the same trick that keeps gamblers addicted.

Tips to get back into books

If you are having difficulty choosing between your phone and a book, here’s a simple tip proven by behavioural science . To change behaviour it also helps to change your environment.

Try the following:

Carry a book at all times, or leave books around the house in convenient places.

Schedule reading time into your day. 20 minutes is enough . This reinforces the habit and ensures regular immersion in the book world.

If you’re not enjoying a book, try another. Don’t force yourself.

You’ll feel better for it – and be prepared for a future employer asking you what books you’re reading.

  • Social media
  • Recruitment
  • Behavioural science

why books are important in our life essay

Case Management Specialist

why books are important in our life essay

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer - Marketing

why books are important in our life essay

Assistant Editor - 1 year cadetship

why books are important in our life essay

Executive Dean, Faculty of Health

why books are important in our life essay

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer, Earth System Science (School of Science)

  • Growth & Development
  • Play & Activities
  • Life Skills
  • Play & Learning
  • Learning & Education
  • Rhymes & Songs
  • Preschool Locator

FirstCry Intelli Education

Importance Of Books – 10 Lines, Short & Long Essay For Kids

Priyadarshika

Key Points To Remember When Writing An Essay On ‘The Importance Of Books’ For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on ‘the importance of books’ in english, paragraph on ‘the importance of books’ in 100 words for children, short essay on ‘the importance of reading books’ for kids, long essay on ‘the importance of books’ in english for children, what will your child learn from this essay.

Books are synonymous with learning and education, and have been a concrete source of information and knowledge for many generations. It is essential for children to develop a habit of reading books from a young age as it builds their vocabulary and self-study skills. Considering the role books play in education, ‘The Importance of Books’ is a popular topic for essay writing assignments and frequently asked as part of tests. In this write-up, we will enlighten you on how to write an essay on the importance of books for classes 1, 2 and 3 in short and long formats.

Books are an authentic source of knowledge for everyone. Here are some crucial points to keep in mind when you write about the importance of books:

  • An essay should have an introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Paragraphs and short-form essays can have some facts about books and your perspective.
  • Keep the points relatable to all readers.
  • Avoid deviating from the topic too much when explaining the importance of books.

A simple essay can be a few lines on the importance of books. It is a good place to start the habit of writing. Here’s an example of an essay for class 1 and class 2 on the importance of books:

  • Books are our best friends.
  • Books contain all the information we need to learn and remember.
  • There are many different types of books, such as textbooks, story books and reference encyclopedias.
  • It is vital to cultivate the habit of reading books, especially in kids.
  • Reading books improves concentration and reading skills.
  • Books contain information about all kinds of things which build our knowledge of the world.
  • Books have been the medium of information storage for hundreds of years.
  • Technology has made it possible to have electronic books these days.
  • I prefer to read printed books over digital books as the feel of every book is different.
  • I love spending time reading all the books I have in my little library.

Paragraph essays lay the foundation for long-form essay writing skills. Here’s an example of how to approach the topic:

Books are our true best friends. They are full of information we need for our education and daily life. There are different types of books for a variety of knowledge that we seek, including science, history, mathematics, biology, fantasy, and anything else we need. My favourites are story books about adventure and books on history. I can spend my entire day reading these books and immerse myself in a world of imagination and thrill. Books help us to share information and will continue to be significant, although electronic media have gained popularity. Books will always be my best friends and source of imagination and inspiration.

Writing short essays help children build the skills to write long articles on any topic. Here is an example of a short essay on books:

Books play an important role in our lives as they are the source of knowledge and information on all kinds of topics. Books, like good friends, can make you a better person by keeping you company and teaching essential lessons. Everyone should inculcate a habit of reading books to improve their reading, vocabulary, and awareness on different topics. Even if the book being read is fiction or fantasy, it is food for our imagination and language skills. Parents must encourage children to read books as reading is the most crucial skill for academic success. By cultivating a fast reading habit, they can absorb more information and become skilled readers later in life. Children should develop a habit of reading on a variety of subjects, so they have broad knowledge as they go through higher grades. Eventually, they will see that there will always be more books to read and more friends to make! Books are the kind of companions who never grow old and can guide us in life’s journey.

A long essay for class 3 can range over 300 words. Children have to maintain coherence throughout the paragraphs and employ good storytelling. Here is an example of a long essay on the importance of books in our life:

Books are more than just pages with printed text. Throughout history, books have been the record keepers of events and the repository of collective human knowledge. Without written documents or printed texts, human civilisation would not be what it is today. Great thinkers, writers and influencers have always been book readers, and they spent a significant portion of their time reading books to gather knowledge that would later help them transform the world.

Everybody has read books at some point in life, whether out of interest or for studies. Children are familiar with their academic books, and many have libraries filled with their favourite books. Reading books from a young age is crucial as it builds vocabulary and language skills. People who are good readers also become good writers, and good writing is a skill vital for academic success.

To reap the benefits of reading, children should pick a wide range of topics from literature to science and history. Reading books on fiction and fantasy is equally vital as it stimulates the imagination and builds vocabulary. Books on philosophy are excellent sources of material on spiritual and philosophical ideas. They should also become part of our reading list, so we have a good understanding of ourselves and the higher purpose in life.

Considering the benefits books have to offer us, it won’t be wrong to call them our best friends as they will remain by us throughout our lives. As we develop the habit of reading more and more books, we will realise that we also see each book has a character of its own which influences our personality. Only books can take us on many different journeys that are impossible to experience in one single life.

Why Are Books Important?

Books are important because different genres of books contain information about various subjects. We can learn about history, philosophy, values, and science by reading books. A habit of reading builds our knowledge and contributes to intelligence. For many people, reading books is a stress relief exercise and an escape to a different world they can enjoy. For kids, books build language skills and imagination.

What Are The Different Genres Of Books?

Books come in different genres such as travel, philosophy, science, fashion, technology, self-help, motivation, and many more. Each genre has specific information about its subjects and topics.

What Type Of Books Should Children Read?

Children should read fiction, fantasy, science, and history from their usual academic books to learn about different things. The more genre of books their read, the wider their knowledge will be. Reading more also builds language skills and develops their vocabulary.

The essays above are short and long-form essays on the topic of books. Their purpose is to give them an idea about how they can frame their own essays on the subject and gather points they can use in their write-ups.

As we have seen from the examples above, books are long-term friends we need in our lives, and the more we have, the merrier. Although electronic media now dominates the world, books will always have an important place in our lives.

Essay on Knowledge is Power for Children Essay on Importance of English Language for Kids How to Write An Essay on My Favourite Book for Children

  • Essays for Class 1
  • Essays for Class 2
  • Essays for Class 3

Priyadarshika

5 Recommended Books To Add To Your Child’s Reading List and Why

5 absolute must-watch movies and shows for kids, 15 indoor toys that have multiple uses and benefits, leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Google search engine

Most Popular

The best toys for newborns according to developmental paediatricians, the best toys for three-month-old baby brain development, recent comments.

FirstCry Intelli Education

FirstCry Intelli Education is an Early Learning brand, with products and services designed by educators with decades of experience, to equip children with skills that will help them succeed in the world of tomorrow.

why books are important in our life essay

The FirstCry Intellikit `Learn With Stories` kits for ages 2-6 brings home classic children`s stories, as well as fun activities, specially created by our Early Learning Educators.

why books are important in our life essay

For children 6 years and up, explore a world of STEAM learning, while engaging in project-based play to keep growing minds busy!

why books are important in our life essay

Build a love for reading through engaging book sets and get the latest in brain-boosting toys, recommended by the educators at FirstCry Intellitots.

why books are important in our life essay

Our Comprehensive 2-year Baby Brain Development Program brings to you doctor-approved toys for your baby`s developing brain.

why books are important in our life essay

Our Preschool Chain offers the best in education across India, for children ages 2 and up.

©2024 All rights reserved

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use

why books are important in our life essay

Welcome to the world of Intelli!

We have some FREE Activity E-books waiting for you. Fill in your details below so we can send you tailor- made activities for you and your little one.

Parent/Guardian's Name

Child's DOB

What would you like to receive other than your Free E-book? I would like information, discounts and offers on toys, books and products I want to find a FirstCry Intellitots Preschool near me I want access to resources for my child's development and/or education

lead from image

Welcome to the world of intelli!

FREE guides and worksheets coming your way on whatsapp. Subscribe Below !!

email sent

THANK YOU!!!

Here are your free guides and worksheets.

Essay on Why are Books Important in Our Life for Students 100, 150, 200 300 and 500 + Words

Essay on Why are Books Important edumantra.net

Essay on Why are Books Important – 100 Words

Books are an essential part of our lives. The importance of books can never be ignored. They are not only a source of entertainment but also help us gain knowledge about the world around us. Books have been a significant tool in education for centuries and continue to play a vital role in shaping young minds. Reading books is proven to enhance cognitive skills, improve vocabulary, and develop critical thinking abilities. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, every book tells a unique story that can teach valuable lessons. Books hold immense power as they can inspire people to change themselves for the better or motivate them towards achieving their goals. In today’s digital era where technology has taken over our daily lives, there is still no substitute for the joy one feels while holding a physical book in hand. The importance of books will never diminish

  • Essay on My Favourite Book
  • Essay on My Favourite Book Harry Potter Series
  • 5 Amazing Books Essay
  • 5 Amazing Essays on Pet Animals Short and Long
  • Essay on How Animals Are Useful

Essay on Why Books are Important- 150 Words

Why are Books Important in Our Life edumantra.net

Books are an important part of human life. Books have been around for centuries and have played a significant role in shaping the course of human history. One reason why books are essential is that they provide us with valuable information on various subjects. Whether it’s science, literature, philosophy or history. Books keep us informed about the world around us. They help us understand complex concepts and ideas in simple terms. Moreover, books inspire creativity by opening our minds to new ideas and perspectives. Reading can stimulate our imagination and encourage us to think critically about different issues affecting society today. Furthermore, reading also helps improve cognitive function by stimulating brain activity. It enhances concentration skills while improving memory retention abilities. In conclusion, there is no doubt that books play a vital role in our lives; they educate us about the world we live in while inspiring creativity at the same time!

Essay on Books are our Best Friends- 200 Words

Books have been a source of knowledge and entertainment for centuries. Books are more than just a combination of words on paper. They provide us with an opportunity to learn about different cultures, explore new ideas, and gain insights into the world around us. They offer us insight into the world around us and provide knowledge that we may not have otherwise acquired. Books allow us to escape from tension and be lost in different worlds. They help us imagine new worlds and perspectives, and gain empathy for others. Reading has been shown to increase vocabulary, improve creativity, reduce stress levels, and even prolong life expectancy. In addition to personal benefits, books play an important role in society by preserving history and culture. They serve as a record of past events and ideas that can be passed down through generations. Furthermore, literature has the power to inspire change in society by challenging societal norms or sparking a movement. Despite so many advantages of reading books, some people still choose not to read. This could be due to lack of access or interest, but it is important for everyone to recognize the value that books bring into our lives. Ultimately, whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, there is something for everyone within the pages of a book. So pick one up today – who knows where it might take you.

Essay on Books are our Best Friends- 300 Words

Essay on Books are our Best Friends edumantra.net

The importance of books cannot be overstated; they are essential tools that help us navigate our lives. Reading books allows us to enter a world that is entirely different from your own. You can travel through time, visit new places, and experience things you may never encounter in real life. Books also offer unique perspectives on various topics, allowing readers to broaden their horizons by learning about differing opinions. Moreover, reading stimulates the mind and helps develop critical thinking skills. It challenges the reader to analyze information presented in the book critically. Books have the power to transport us to different worlds, broaden our horizons, and inspire us in ways we never thought possible. They provide an avenue for learning, exploration, and growth unlike any other medium. Reading books also enhances vocabulary and writing skills with helping develop creativity and imagination. Overall, books play an important role in shaping who we are as individuals and society as a whole. They teach us valuable lessons about ourselves and others while providing endless hours of entertainment; thus it’s crucial for everyone to read books. Long essay Books are an invaluable treasure that we can hold in our hands or carry with us wherever we go. They offer us sight into the minds of great thinkers, transport us to faraway lands and allow us to explore new worlds. They serve as our faithful companions throughout life’s journey, providing us with knowledge, wisdom, and entertainment. Reading also allows us to empathize with characters from all walks of life and exposes us to a multitude of emotions that help shape who we are as people. Furthermore, books provide a sense of comfort during difficult times or when feeling lost or alone. They offer guidance for self-improvement or advice on how to navigate complex situations with grace and understanding. In short, reading is an essential part of personal growth and development. Books bring joy into our lives while teaching valuable lessons along the way.

Essay on Why are Books Important in Our Life

Books are our best friend

Books are often considered as our best friends, and rightly so. They have been with us for centuries, providing knowledge, entertainment, and comfort. A book is something that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their age or background. It doesn’t matter if you’re a young child just learning to read or an elderly person looking back on a long life – books always offer companionship.

How are Books Useful to us-

Books can teach us valuable lessons about life, love, and humanity. They help us understand ourselves better by showing us the experiences of others who have lived before us. Reading books also helps develop empathy which is important in building relationships with other people. Moreover, books never judge you based on your appearance or social status; they welcome everyone with open arms into their world full of stories waiting to be explored. You can choose any kind ranging from fiction to non-fiction depending on your interests. When we connect deeply with characters in a book we get emotionally invested in them; we feel what they feel and experience everything that happens through their eyes. This emotional connection serves as an escape from the daily grind of life – giving readers time away from stress while still feeling connected to something greater than themselves.

They generate good values in us

Books are not only a source of knowledge but they are also instrumental in teaching us important values. As we read books, we come across characters that present certain features and qualities which can help shape our personality for the better. For example, reading books about kindness and empathy can teach us to be more compassionate towards others. Books that showcase bravery and courage can inspire us to face challenges head-on without backing down. Similarly, books that talk about honesty and integrity can instill these values within us. Moreover, books provide a unique way of presenting moral problems which require critical thinking on our part. This helps in developing our sense of right and wrong by making us question our own beliefs and biases. Inculcating good values is especially important for students as it sets them up for success both academically and personally. By learning moral habits at an early age through reading books, students develop into responsible citizens who contribute positively to society. Therefore, it’s safe to say that reading books not only expands our views logically but also morally by imparting valuable life lessons that stay with us forever.

They help us in developing our personality

Books are not just a source of information, but they also help us in developing our personality. Reading books opens up new views and ideas that can expand our understanding of the world around us. Through reading, we learn to identify with different characters and their situations. This helps in promoting emotional intelligence and encourages us to be more kind towards others. Books also allow us to explore various cultures and ways of life. By involving ourselves in these stories, we gain a deeper respect for diversity and overall. Moreover, books encourage critical thinking skills as readers need to analyze the plot line, characters’ motives, or author’s messages behind the story. This analytical approach helps readers develop their own opinions about issues discussed which is essential for personal growth. Books teach empathy, cultural awareness & critical thinking skills which all contribute significantly towards shaping one’s personality positively. They help you become a better version of yourself by expanding your views beyond your limited experiences while together providing you with valuable lessons that stay with you forever!

They take us to different worlds

Books have the power to take us on a journey, not just through time but also to different worlds. The ability to transport readers into a new world is one of the most magical things about books. Whether it’s a classic like Alice in Wonderland or modern-day fantasy novels such as Harry Potter, books can let you escape from reality and feel yourself fully in an imaginary world. Reading allows you to visit places you may never be able to travel and meet characters that only exist within the pages of a book. From Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to Middle Earth, these imaginary worlds offer endless possibilities for observation and adventure. The beauty of reading is that every reader explains what they read differently, meaning each person has their own unique experience when exploring these fantastical lands. Books take us on an emotional journey too – we feel happy when our favorite character wins over difficulty and heartbreak when they face defeat. Books are more than just words on paper; they hold within them entire universes waiting for us to explore. No matter how old we get or where life takes us, there will always be new stories waiting for us between the covers of a book.

They give us knowledge and information

Books source of knowledge edumantra.net

Books are a great source of knowledge and information. They can provide us with vision into various topics that we may not have been exposed to otherwise. Whether you want to learn about history, science, or any other subject, there’s always a book out there that covers it. Reading books allows us to gain practical knowledge on different qualities of life, such as personal finance or self-help. By reading books on these subjects, we can learn how best to improve our lives and make the most of what we have. Additionally, books give us access to information that might not be easily available elsewhere. For example, if you want detailed information on a specific topic like space exploration or oceanic biology, you’re more likely to find it in a book than through online sources. Moreover, books also offer unique views from authors around the world who come from various backgrounds and cultures. The variety of ideas presented in literature is an excellent way for readers to expand their worldview and understand different points of view. Books provide us with valuable knowledge and information that is important for our growth as individuals. Reading them regularly and widely across groups and categories including fiction or non-fiction work helps develop logical capacity while improving overall relevance function which contributes positively in shaping one’s personality for betterment both personally & professionally!

Books are an essential part of our lives. They not only provide us with knowledge and information but also help in shaping our personalities. Books teach us values that we can apply in our daily lives and take us to different worlds where we can escape from reality for a while. They are indeed our best friends. It is crucial to develop a habit of reading books at an early age as it helps children improve their vocabulary, imagination, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Students must understand the importance of books in their academic life as they play a huge role in their overall development. We should encourage people around us to read more often and make use of the vast amount of compositions available today. So let’s pick up a book today and start reading!

1. How important are books to you? Answer – Books are essential to my development and growth.They have the power to unlock my creativity, challenge my thinking, and open up new views. I can learn about history and cultures without ever having to leave home. Books are so important because they open up a world of possibilities and knowledge that I would not have access to otherwise. Books provide me with the opportunity to gain vision into topics that I may not be familiar with, and they can provide a much needed escape from reality when needed. Most importantly, books help me grow as a person by introducing me to new ideas, taking me on journeys of exploration, teaching me valuable life lessons, and glowing conversations with friends and family.

2. What are the benefits of reading books? Answer – There are many benefits to reading books! Here are a few:

  • Improving good abilities: Reading books can improve your memory, increase your vocabulary, and improve your ability to focus and concentrate.
  • Reducing stress: Reading can be a great way to unroll and relax after a long day. It has been shown to reduce stress levels and can be an effective tool for managing anxiety.
  • Expanding knowledge: Reading books can expose you to new ideas,views, and cultures. It can help broaden your understanding of the world and improve your critical thinking skills.
  • Improving empathy: Reading books can also help develop empathy by allowing us to experience different emotions and situations through the characters in the book.
  • Increasing creativity: Reading books can stimulate creativity and inspire new ideas. It can help develop your imagination and enhance your ability to think creatively.

3. Why should we read books? Answer – Reading books is essential for developing a well-rounded intelligence,as it provides you with knowledge and views on many topics. Books can also open your eyes to different cultures and help you understand different points of view. Furthermore, reading helps improve your vocabulary, grammar and writing skills, which can be beneficial in both academic and profession. Finally, reading books is a great way to relax, reduce stress and escape from the pressures of daily life.

4. What are the advantages of reference books? Answer – Reference books are designed to provide quick and easy access to information on a particular topic. Here are some advantages of reading reference books:

  • Quick access to information: Reference books are designed to provide short and relevant information on a specific topic. They are organized in a way that makes it easy to find the information you need quickly.
  • Reliability: Reference books are written by experts in their separate fields and are subject to accurate editing and fact-checking. This means that the information you find in reference books is generally accurate and reliable.
  • Comprehensive content : Reference books often cover a wide range of topics related to a particular subject. This makes them an excellent resource for gaining a wide understanding of a topic.
  • Time-saving: Since reference books provide a lot of information in one place, they can be a time-saving resource. Instead of spending hours searching for information online or in multiple sources, you can find what you need in a reference book.

Related Posts

Essay on Globalization edumantra.net

  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Importance of Reading Books

A reader says they are a gateway to the past, and essential now more than ever.

why books are important in our life essay

To the Editor:

Re “ Why You Should Binge-Read ,” by Ben Dolnick (Sunday Review, May 5):

Brilliant novels are wonderful; so too are memoirs, autobiographies, biographies, political and historical nonfiction works, science and technology books, poetry collections, young adult fiction and so on. An excellent book, regardless of genre, transports one, and sparks the urge to read voraciously.

Now more than ever it’s important to learn from the past, in terms of history and politics. I devour this genre even though, when much younger, I was far more interested in other literary genres.

Books and libraries are treasures. Thank you to all the authors whose works make us think, stir emotion and make us ponder the human condition.

Ilene Starger Brooklyn

EssayBanyan.com – Collections of Essay for Students of all Class in English

Essay on Why Are Books so Important in Our Life

Why Are Books so Important in Our Life

The journey of life of man is initiated with a learning process that begins eventually after a birth of a child and is continued till death. Books are a great aid in learning. We come through different types of books in our life. Every book has some piece of information related to one or the other field. Reading books makes our life more interesting and lively.

Short and Long Essay on Why Are Books so Important in Our Life in English

Find here some essays of your interest:

10 Lines Essay on Why Are Books so Important in Our Life (100 – 120 Words)

1) Books are important because they give us knowledge.

2) Reading books can help in improving our reading skills.

3) Books can be a novel, storybooks, academic books, religious books, etc.

4) Books hold the solution to our every problem.

5) Books help us in developing a good personality.

6) Books are our entertainment partner.

7) Some books are a great source of motivation and inspiration.

8) Books make our minds sharp and generate good skills.

9) Books help us in improving our imagination power.

10) Books are the best guide to life experiences.

I will enlighten you with the importance of books in our life by the essays provided below. It might help the students of schools and colleges to get an idea about writing an essay on this topic.

Books are Major Source of Knowledge – Short Essay (300 Words)

Introduction

Books are the best buddies of human beings. We all must have read different books in our life. They are always with us to help us whenever we need them. It is essential for all the students to develop the habit of reading books in their life.

Books are Major Source of Knowledge

A collection of different pages with information printed on them and bound together is called a book. There are different categories of books like storybooks, novels, subject books, fictional books, etc. There is everything that we can read and find out in books. Books are therefore called the major source of knowledge. We get the most accurate information from books about everything that we desire to know. It is the books only that have tells us about our history and rich culture. It enables us to know everything that happened in the past. Books also teach us different moral values, ethics that help in shaping our character.

Reading Books is the Best Exercise for Relieving Stress

The habit of reading books makes us knowledgeable, enhances our vocabulary, and thinking power. Books help us as our best guides when we are in difficult situations. Reading books is the best way of relieving the stress level in people of every age group. Most people have the habit of reading books before going to sleep.

Reading Books in the Lap of Nature is a Beautiful Experience

Reading is the best way of entertaining ourselves. The act of reading books in the lap of nature helps us in understanding things in a better way. The soothing environment helps us in concentrating and learning things in an efficient manner.

The culture of reading books is slowly being replaced by the internet and e-books system. Books are the ornaments of the library and nothing can replace the pleasure of reading books.

Why are Books so Important in our Life – Long Essay (1000 Words)

Nothing in this world can replace the pleasure of reading books. Reading books is an act of great fun and pleasure. Books are the storehouse of different kinds of information. We just need to acquire this vast information by developing in us the good habit of reading books in our life. Many books contain the autobiographies of the great people that are an inspiration to us. Books are our best guides at different stages of life.

Books as our Best Friends

Books are the best companions in our life. They never leave us alone and are like our best friends. They are available to us whenever we need them. The books help us in understanding the world around us and judge between right and wrong. They are our perfect guide or all-time teachers. We are enriched by several good qualities by reading books. They help in focusing on our goals and also achieve them timely. Many of us have the habit of reading books in our spare time or before sleeping as reading helps in overcoming unwanted stress. It takes us to a different world and we feel much relaxed after reading. Books unlike people never require anything in return instead help us in enhancing our knowledge and creativity.

Importance of Books for Students

The student life is said to be a life full of struggles and meant for gaining knowledge. Every student must inculcate the habit of reading books. Since students are in the developing stage of life. They need to be well guided by their parents, teachers and elders.

The best way they are guided is by doing friendship with books. There are many books containing the autobiographies of some great personalities. These books can help students to get inspired by the life history of the people they admire and work accordingly to achieve the goal of their life. Reading enhances the focus and concentration that is most required in a student’s life.

Reading daily for few hours helps in building vocabulary as well as language skills. Books help students in getting new information, ideas, and facts about the world. The students become intelligent by reading books and also score good marks in examinations. More than helping in building the carrier of the student’s books also helps in making a good person. Reading good books related to ethics and values enrich students with good qualities and thus they grow up to become good and responsible citizens of society.

Why is Reading a Book Better than Watching Movies?

Watching movies is a good way of entertaining ourselves. A movie is particularly of 2-3 hours and finishes after that. It also gives us some moral or teaching but in my opinion reading book for entertainment is far better than watching movies. When we read a storybook or a novel it is more interesting instead of watching the same story in movies. The book reading cannot be completed in a day. It is continued for days according to the time given by us for reading. Reading a storybook or novel brings us a great curiosity day by day as we finish different chapters. We get lost in the world of imagination as if the story is truly happening. Reading books gives us more accurate information than watching movies. It also helps us in focusing and increasing our concentrating power. Along with all these, it enhances our imagination power and creativity.

Importance of Books over Technologies

These days the use of the internet, mobile phones, and computers has become very common. The students find these technologies as a good option for studying but these technologies can never eradicate the importance of books. When we read books we get to know several new information’s but there are many unsolved things. To get the answer to these questions we have to study more. This increases the potential of reading and searching in students. This is a good exercise of our brain and the best way to sharpen our minds.

If we talk of the internet, it does not give us these benefits as all the information is already available over there. Thus it can be said that it reduces our efficacy and potential. Technologies also require the use of electric power but books just need to be opened and read. They are available to us at any time we need but the internet needs data and energy to be operated. Therefore it can be said that the internet is a good medium of learning but can never be preferred over reading books.

Are E-Books and Internet Diminishing the Importance of Reading Books in our Life?

People find it easier to get information updates by using the internet and downloading e-books. According to me, e-books are not easy to be read as books are. It requires continuous use of smartphones or computers wherever it is downloaded. These devices can only be operated by charging and internet connection. They will not work if discharged. This condition is not applicable to reading books manually. We can read the book at any time and it does not cost anything. It does not require any kind of energy source. Moreover, the pleasure of reading is immeasurable. It provides us an authentic and deep knowledge of the concepts rather than information on the internet.

Reading books is a beautiful feeling that cannot be expressed in words. Every one of us must develop a habit of reading books. Books not only provide us relevant information but also make us wiser. It is the best way of getting out of our tensions with a relaxed state of mind. Reading books also enhances the power of thinking as well as writing. It gives us a perspective to think about the world in our own way.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . A book is a written set of papers bound together and is a great source of several facts and information.

Ans . The Rig-Veda written in 1500-1000 BCE is the oldest known book in the world in Sanskrit text.

Ans . Reading book distracts our attention from tensions and brings us to a different world of imagination thereby relieving stress.

Ans . Books help us in getting out of loneliness and are available to us whenever we need them like true friends.

Ans . Rabindranath Tagore wrote the book Geetanjali and received the noble prize in 1913.

Related Posts

Essay on digital india, cashless india essay, essay on child is father of the man, essay on causes, effects and prevention of corona virus, essay on dr. sarvepalli radhakrishnan, durga puja essay, essay on summer vacation, essay on my plans for summer vacation, essay on holiday.

  • Book Reviews
  • Book Promotion

Vowelor logo

  • Short Essays

Essay on Importance of Books in our life

Essay on Importance of Books in our life: Books are of great importance in our daily life. Reading books gives us immense knowledge about the outside world. When we develop a healthy habit of reading books  only then we realize the significant value of books in our life. According to a well-known writer, Stephen king, “Books are a uniquely portable magic”, which can bring joy to our life.

Significance of Books In Our Life

Importance of Books in our life : John Morley Quote

1. Books are our best friends

Friends are the important part of our life. We cannot imagine our life without the companionship of a good friend. Life is much more fun when we have Books as our Friend . A good book as a friend can make you a successful person in your life.

2. Books tell us about our History

The Importance of books in our life can be observed from our history where our ancient people used to carve their imagination onto the books So that future generation can be a part of their imagination. While reading through the history books, we can get knowledge about our ancestors.

3. Books teach us positive values

Books play a significant role in nourishing the moral values of human beings. The books written by saints and famous people teaches us about the right moral values of becoming a good human being.

4. Books make us Intelligent

There are so many scientific proves which states, books played an important role in the growth of mankind. From memory boost to the treatment of Dyslexia, the importance of books in our life can be seen in every aspect of day-to-day life.

5. Reading Books is a  good stress reliever

If you had a rough day? or if your day was full of stress? You don’t have to worry, reading books for half an hour of your favorite genre with a coffee can be a good stress reliever.

6. Self-help Books Increase self-confidence

If you are continuously doubting your own strengths and feeling shattered, self-help books can make you feel inspired and motivated. Books like ‘dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing’ and ‘Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead’ can increase your confidence level.

7. Books Increase Imagination Power

Books like harry potter and Cinderella make us dream, dream about the beautiful world far from the harsh realities of life. Books are the real treasure of childhood for every kid. Books play an important role in our childhood life.

8. Books Teach Us to Love

Love can be learned from books. Books written on the subject of love teaches you the priceless value of relation that too in itself is one of the great importance of books on one’s life.

9. Books Makes You A Great Businessman

Do you know how Steve jobs became the co-founder of a Billionaire company? Do you know how bill gates became the tycoon of the software industry? We can read about all of these things in the books and enriched ourselves with the thought process and strategies of great minds of the century.

10. Books Teach Us About Spirituality

We can read many good things about religious beliefs, traditions, thoughts and spirituality within the books. The important thing about books is that it stores the valuable words of even the dead ones.

11. Books are the  library of information

If you love to read books then you are automatically counted in one of the members of the well-educated class. You can grab an infinite amount of knowledge from the books.

Good Thoughts  On Importance of Books in our life

  • Self-Motivation
  • Moral Values
  • History Restoration
  • Love and Respect
  • Good Friends
  • Self-help Books
  • Boost Memory
Are you the follower of books? Do you have any importance of books to share with us? If yes, then please do write us in comments.  

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

why books are important in our life essay

Essay on Books Are Our Best Friends in English

Short essay on my best friend (all classes) in english, essay on library in english.

This is very helpful for my exam

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Social Justice
  • Environment
  • Health & Happiness
  • Get YES! Emails
  • Teacher Resources

why books are important in our life essay

  • Give A Gift Subscription
  • Teaching Sustainability
  • Teaching Social Justice
  • Teaching Respect & Empathy
  • Student Writing Lessons
  • Visual Learning Lessons
  • Tough Topics Discussion Guides
  • About the YES! for Teachers Program
  • Student Writing Contest

Follow YES! For Teachers

Eight brilliant student essays on what matters most in life.

Read winning essays from our spring 2019 student writing contest.

young and old.jpg

For the spring 2019 student writing contest, we invited students to read the YES! article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill. Like the author, students interviewed someone significantly older than them about the three things that matter most in life. Students then wrote about what they learned, and about how their interviewees’ answers compare to their own top priorities.

The Winners

From the hundreds of essays written, these eight were chosen as winners. Be sure to read the author’s response to the essay winners and the literary gems that caught our eye. Plus, we share an essay from teacher Charles Sanderson, who also responded to the writing prompt.

Middle School Winner: Rory Leyva

High School Winner:  Praethong Klomsum

University Winner:  Emily Greenbaum

Powerful Voice Winner: Amanda Schwaben

Powerful Voice Winner: Antonia Mills

Powerful Voice Winner:  Isaac Ziemba

Powerful Voice Winner: Lily Hersch

“Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner: Jonas Buckner

From the Author: Response to Student Winners

Literary Gems

From A Teacher: Charles Sanderson

From the Author: Response to Charles Sanderson

Middle School Winner

Village Home Education Resource Center, Portland, Ore.

why books are important in our life essay

The Lessons Of Mortality 

“As I’ve aged, things that are more personal to me have become somewhat less important. Perhaps I’ve become less self-centered with the awareness of mortality, how short one person’s life is.” This is how my 72-year-old grandma believes her values have changed over the course of her life. Even though I am only 12 years old, I know my life won’t last forever, and someday I, too, will reflect on my past decisions. We were all born to exist and eventually die, so we have evolved to value things in the context of mortality.

One of the ways I feel most alive is when I play roller derby. I started playing for the Rose City Rollers Juniors two years ago, and this year, I made the Rosebud All-Stars travel team. Roller derby is a fast-paced, full-contact sport. The physicality and intense training make me feel in control of and present in my body.

My roller derby team is like a second family to me. Adolescence is complicated. We understand each other in ways no one else can. I love my friends more than I love almost anything else. My family would have been higher on my list a few years ago, but as I’ve aged it has been important to make my own social connections.

Music led me to roller derby.  I started out jam skating at the roller rink. Jam skating is all about feeling the music. It integrates gymnastics, breakdancing, figure skating, and modern dance with R & B and hip hop music. When I was younger, I once lay down in the DJ booth at the roller rink and was lulled to sleep by the drawl of wheels rolling in rhythm and people talking about the things they came there to escape. Sometimes, I go up on the roof of my house at night to listen to music and feel the wind rustle my hair. These unique sensations make me feel safe like nothing else ever has.

My grandma tells me, “Being close with family and friends is the most important thing because I haven’t

why books are important in our life essay

always had that.” When my grandma was two years old, her father died. Her mother became depressed and moved around a lot, which made it hard for my grandma to make friends. Once my grandma went to college, she made lots of friends. She met my grandfather, Joaquin Leyva when she was working as a park ranger and he was a surfer. They bought two acres of land on the edge of a redwood forest and had a son and a daughter. My grandma created a stable family that was missing throughout her early life.

My grandma is motivated to maintain good health so she can be there for her family. I can relate because I have to be fit and strong for my team. Since she lost my grandfather to cancer, she realizes how lucky she is to have a functional body and no life-threatening illnesses. My grandma tries to eat well and exercise, but she still struggles with depression. Over time, she has learned that reaching out to others is essential to her emotional wellbeing.  

Caring for the earth is also a priority for my grandma I’ve been lucky to learn from my grandma. She’s taught me how to hunt for fossils in the desert and find shells on the beach. Although my grandma grew up with no access to the wilderness, she admired the green open areas of urban cemeteries. In college, she studied geology and hiked in the High Sierras. For years, she’s been an advocate for conserving wildlife habitat and open spaces.

Our priorities may seem different, but it all comes down to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and need to be loved. Like Nancy Hill says in the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” it can be hard to decipher what is important in life. I believe that the constant search for satisfaction and meaning is the only thing everyone has in common. We all want to know what matters, and we walk around this confusing world trying to find it. The lessons I’ve learned from my grandma about forging connections, caring for my body, and getting out in the world inspire me to live my life my way before it’s gone.

Rory Leyva is a seventh-grader from Portland, Oregon. Rory skates for the Rosebuds All-Stars roller derby team. She loves listening to music and hanging out with her friends.

High School Winner

Praethong Klomsum

  Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.

why books are important in our life essay

Time Only Moves Forward

Sandra Hernandez gazed at the tiny house while her mother’s gentle hands caressed her shoulders. It wasn’t much, especially for a family of five. This was 1960, she was 17, and her family had just moved to Culver City.

Flash forward to 2019. Sandra sits in a rocking chair, knitting a blanket for her latest grandchild, in the same living room. Sandra remembers working hard to feed her eight children. She took many different jobs before settling behind the cash register at a Japanese restaurant called Magos. “It was a struggle, and my husband Augustine, was planning to join the military at that time, too.”

In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author Nancy Hill states that one of the most important things is “…connecting with others in general, but in particular with those who have lived long lives.” Sandra feels similarly. It’s been hard for Sandra to keep in contact with her family, which leaves her downhearted some days. “It’s important to maintain that connection you have with your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”

Despite her age, Sandra is a daring woman. Taking risks is important to her, and she’ll try anything—from skydiving to hiking. Sandra has some regrets from the past, but nowadays, she doesn’t wonder about the “would have, could have, should haves.” She just goes for it with a smile.

Sandra thought harder about her last important thing, the blue and green blanket now finished and covering

why books are important in our life essay

her lap. “I’ve definitely lived a longer life than most, and maybe this is just wishful thinking, but I hope I can see the day my great-grandchildren are born.” She’s laughing, but her eyes look beyond what’s in front of her. Maybe she is reminiscing about the day she held her son for the first time or thinking of her grandchildren becoming parents. I thank her for her time and she waves it off, offering me a styrofoam cup of lemonade before I head for the bus station.

The bus is sparsely filled. A voice in my head reminds me to finish my 10-page history research paper before spring break. I take a window seat and pull out my phone and earbuds. My playlist is already on shuffle, and I push away thoughts of that dreaded paper. Music has been a constant in my life—from singing my lungs out in kindergarten to Barbie’s “I Need To Know,” to jamming out to Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” in sixth grade, to BTS’s “Intro: Never Mind” comforting me when I’m at my lowest. Music is my magic shop, a place where I can trade away my fears for calm.

I’ve always been afraid of doing something wrong—not finishing my homework or getting a C when I can do better. When I was 8, I wanted to be like the big kids. As I got older, I realized that I had exchanged my childhood longing for the 48 pack of crayons for bigger problems, balancing grades, a social life, and mental stability—all at once. I’m going to get older whether I like it or not, so there’s no point forcing myself to grow up faster.  I’m learning to live in the moment.

The bus is approaching my apartment, where I know my comfy bed and a home-cooked meal from my mom are waiting. My mom is hard-working, confident, and very stubborn. I admire her strength of character. She always keeps me in line, even through my rebellious phases.

My best friend sends me a text—an update on how broken her laptop is. She is annoying. She says the stupidest things and loves to state the obvious. Despite this, she never fails to make me laugh until my cheeks feel numb. The rest of my friends are like that too—loud, talkative, and always brightening my day. Even friends I stopped talking to have a place in my heart. Recently, I’ve tried to reconnect with some of them. This interview was possible because a close friend from sixth grade offered to introduce me to Sandra, her grandmother.  

I’m decades younger than Sandra, so my view of what’s important isn’t as broad as hers, but we share similar values, with friends and family at the top. I have a feeling that when Sandra was my age, she used to love music, too. Maybe in a few decades, when I’m sitting in my rocking chair, drawing in my sketchbook, I’ll remember this article and think back fondly to the days when life was simple.

Praethong Klomsum is a tenth-grader at Santa Monica High School in Santa Monica, California.  Praethong has a strange affinity for rhyme games and is involved in her school’s dance team. She enjoys drawing and writing, hoping to impact people willing to listen to her thoughts and ideas.

University Winner

Emily Greenbaum

Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 

why books are important in our life essay

The Life-Long War

Every morning we open our eyes, ready for a new day. Some immediately turn to their phones and social media. Others work out or do yoga. For a certain person, a deep breath and the morning sun ground him. He hears the clink-clank of his wife cooking low sodium meat for breakfast—doctor’s orders! He sees that the other side of the bed is already made, the dogs are no longer in the room, and his clothes are set out nicely on the loveseat.

Today, though, this man wakes up to something different: faded cream walls and jello. This person, my hero, is Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James.

I pulled up my chair close to Roger’s vinyl recliner so I could hear him above the noise of the beeping dialysis machine. I noticed Roger would occasionally glance at his wife Susan with sparkly eyes when he would recall memories of the war or their grandkids. He looked at Susan like she walked on water.

Roger James served his country for thirty years. Now, he has enlisted in another type of war. He suffers from a rare blood cancer—the result of the wars he fought in. Roger has good and bad days. He says, “The good outweighs the bad, so I have to be grateful for what I have on those good days.”

When Roger retired, he never thought the effects of the war would reach him. The once shallow wrinkles upon his face become deeper, as he tells me, “It’s just cancer. Others are suffering from far worse. I know I’ll make it.”

Like Nancy Hill did in her article “Three Things that Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I asked Roger, “What are the three most important things to you?” James answered, “My wife Susan, my grandkids, and church.”

Roger and Susan served together in the Vietnam war. She was a nurse who treated his cuts and scrapes one day. I asked Roger why he chose Susan. He said, “Susan told me to look at her while she cleaned me up. ‘This may sting, but don’t be a baby.’ When I looked into her eyes, I felt like she was looking into my soul, and I didn’t want her to leave. She gave me this sense of home. Every day I wake up, she makes me feel the same way, and I fall in love with her all over again.”

Roger and Susan have two kids and four grandkids, with great-grandchildren on the way. He claims that his grandkids give him the youth that he feels slowly escaping from his body. This adoring grandfather is energized by coaching t-ball and playing evening card games with the grandkids.

The last thing on his list was church. His oldest daughter married a pastor. Together they founded a church. Roger said that the connection between his faith and family is important to him because it gave him a reason to want to live again. I learned from Roger that when you’re across the ocean, you tend to lose sight of why you are fighting. When Roger returned, he didn’t have the will to live. Most days were a struggle, adapting back into a society that lacked empathy for the injuries, pain, and psychological trauma carried by returning soldiers. Church changed that for Roger and gave him a sense of purpose.

When I began this project, my attitude was to just get the assignment done. I never thought I could view Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James as more than a role model, but he definitely changed my mind. It’s as if Roger magically lit a fire inside of me and showed me where one’s true passions should lie. I see our similarities and embrace our differences. We both value family and our own connections to home—his home being church and mine being where I can breathe the easiest.

Master Chief Petty Officer Roger James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me and that every once in a while, I should step back and stop to smell the roses. As we concluded the interview, amidst squeaky clogs and the stale smell of bleach and bedpans, I looked to Roger, his kind, tired eyes, and weathered skin, with a deeper sense of admiration, knowing that his values still run true, no matter what he faces.

Emily Greenbaum is a senior at Kent State University, graduating with a major in Conflict Management and minor in Geography. Emily hopes to use her major to facilitate better conversations, while she works in the Washington, D.C. area.  

Powerful Voice Winner

Amanda Schwaben

why books are important in our life essay

Wise Words From Winnie the Pooh

As I read through Nancy Hill’s article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I was comforted by the similar responses given by both children and older adults. The emphasis participants placed on family, social connections, and love was not only heartwarming but hopeful. While the messages in the article filled me with warmth, I felt a twinge of guilt building within me. As a twenty-one-year-old college student weeks from graduation, I honestly don’t think much about the most important things in life. But if I was asked, I would most likely say family, friendship, and love. As much as I hate to admit it, I often find myself obsessing over achieving a successful career and finding a way to “save the world.”

A few weeks ago, I was at my family home watching the new Winnie the Pooh movie Christopher Robin with my mom and younger sister. Well, I wasn’t really watching. I had my laptop in front of me, and I was aggressively typing up an assignment. Halfway through the movie, I realized I left my laptop charger in my car. I walked outside into the brisk March air. Instinctively, I looked up. The sky was perfectly clear, revealing a beautiful array of stars. When my twin sister and I were in high school, we would always take a moment to look up at the sparkling night sky before we came into the house after soccer practice.

I think that was the last time I stood in my driveway and gazed at the stars. I did not get the laptop charger from

why books are important in our life essay

my car; instead, I turned around and went back inside. I shut my laptop and watched the rest of the movie. My twin sister loves Winnie the Pooh. So much so that my parents got her a stuffed animal version of him for Christmas. While I thought he was adorable and a token of my childhood, I did not really understand her obsession. However, it was clear to me after watching the movie. Winnie the Pooh certainly had it figured out. He believed that the simple things in life were the most important: love, friendship, and having fun.

I thought about asking my mom right then what the three most important things were to her, but I decided not to. I just wanted to be in the moment. I didn’t want to be doing homework. It was a beautiful thing to just sit there and be present with my mom and sister.

I did ask her, though, a couple of weeks later. Her response was simple.  All she said was family, health, and happiness. When she told me this, I imagined Winnie the Pooh smiling. I think he would be proud of that answer.

I was not surprised by my mom’s reply. It suited her perfectly. I wonder if we relearn what is most important when we grow older—that the pressure to be successful subsides. Could it be that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world?

Amanda Schwaben is a graduating senior from Kent State University with a major in Applied Conflict Management. Amanda also has minors in Psychology and Interpersonal Communication. She hopes to further her education and focus on how museums not only preserve history but also promote peace.

Antonia Mills

Rachel Carson High School, Brooklyn, N.Y. 

why books are important in our life essay

Decoding The Butterfly

For a caterpillar to become a butterfly, it must first digest itself. The caterpillar, overwhelmed by accumulating tissue, splits its skin open to form its protective shell, the chrysalis, and later becomes the pretty butterfly we all know and love. There are approximately 20,000 species of butterflies, and just as every species is different, so is the life of every butterfly. No matter how long and hard a caterpillar has strived to become the colorful and vibrant butterfly that we marvel at on a warm spring day, it does not live a long life. A butterfly can live for a year, six months, two weeks, and even as little as twenty-four hours.

I have often wondered if butterflies live long enough to be blissful of blue skies. Do they take time to feast upon the sweet nectar they crave, midst their hustling life of pollinating pretty flowers? Do they ever take a lull in their itineraries, or are they always rushing towards completing their four-stage metamorphosis? Has anyone asked the butterfly, “Who are you?” instead of “What are you”? Or, How did you get here, on my windowsill?  How did you become ‘you’?

Humans are similar to butterflies. As a caterpillar

why books are important in our life essay

Suzanna Ruby/Getty Images

becomes a butterfly, a baby becomes an elder. As a butterfly soars through summer skies, an elder watches summer skies turn into cold winter nights and back toward summer skies yet again.  And as a butterfly flits slowly by the porch light, a passerby makes assumptions about the wrinkled, slow-moving elder, who is sturdier than he appears. These creatures are not seen for who they are—who they were—because people have “better things to do” or they are too busy to ask, “How are you”?

Our world can be a lonely place. Pressured by expectations, haunted by dreams, overpowered by weakness, and drowned out by lofty goals, we tend to forget ourselves—and others. Rather than hang onto the strands of our diminishing sanity, we might benefit from listening to our elders. Many elders have experienced setbacks in their young lives. Overcoming hardship and surviving to old age is wisdom that they carry.  We can learn from them—and can even make their day by taking the time to hear their stories.  

Nancy Hill, who wrote the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” was right: “We live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” I know a lot about my grandmother’s life, and it isn’t as serene as my own. My grandmother, Liza, who cooks every day, bakes bread on holidays for our neighbors, brings gifts to her doctor out of the kindness of her heart, and makes conversation with neighbors even though she is isn’t fluent in English—Russian is her first language—has struggled all her life. Her mother, Anna, a single parent, had tuberculosis, and even though she had an inviolable spirit, she was too frail to care for four children. She passed away when my grandmother was sixteen, so my grandmother and her siblings spent most of their childhood in an orphanage. My grandmother got married at nineteen to my grandfather, Pinhas. He was a man who loved her more than he loved himself and was a godsend to every person he met. Liza was—and still is—always quick to do what was best for others, even if that person treated her poorly. My grandmother has lived with physical pain all her life, yet she pushed herself to climb heights that she wasn’t ready for. Against all odds, she has lived to tell her story to people who are willing to listen. And I always am.

I asked my grandmother, “What are three things most important to you?” Her answer was one that I already expected: One, for everyone to live long healthy lives. Two, for you to graduate from college. Three, for you to always remember that I love you.

What may be basic to you means the world to my grandmother. She just wants what she never had the chance to experience: a healthy life, an education, and the chance to express love to the people she values. The three things that matter most to her may be so simple and ordinary to outsiders, but to her, it is so much more. And who could take that away?

Antonia Mills was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and attends Rachel Carson High School.  Antonia enjoys creative activities, including writing, painting, reading, and baking. She hopes to pursue culinary arts professionally in the future. One of her favorite quotes is, “When you start seeing your worth, you’ll find it harder to stay around people who don’t.” -Emily S.P.  

  Powerful Voice Winner

   Isaac Ziemba

Odyssey Multiage Program, Bainbridge Island, Wash. 

why books are important in our life essay

This Former State Trooper Has His Priorities Straight: Family, Climate Change, and Integrity

I have a personal connection to people who served in the military and first responders. My uncle is a first responder on the island I live on, and my dad retired from the Navy. That was what made a man named Glen Tyrell, a state trooper for 25 years, 2 months and 9 days, my first choice to interview about what three things matter in life. In the YES! Magazine article “The Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” I learned that old and young people have a great deal in common. I know that’s true because Glen and I care about a lot of the same things.

For Glen, family is at the top of his list of important things. “My wife was, and is, always there for me. My daughters mean the world to me, too, but Penny is my partner,” Glen said. I can understand why Glen’s wife is so important to him. She’s family. Family will always be there for you.

Glen loves his family, and so do I with all my heart. My dad especially means the world to me. He is my top supporter and tells me that if I need help, just “say the word.” When we are fishing or crabbing, sometimes I

why books are important in our life essay

think, what if these times were erased from my memory? I wouldn’t be able to describe the horrible feeling that would rush through my mind, and I’m sure that Glen would feel the same about his wife.

My uncle once told me that the world is always going to change over time. It’s what the world has turned out to be that worries me. Both Glen and I are extremely concerned about climate change and the effect that rising temperatures have on animals and their habitats. We’re driving them to extinction. Some people might say, “So what? Animals don’t pay taxes or do any of the things we do.” What we are doing to them is like the Black Death times 100.

Glen is also frustrated by how much plastic we use and where it ends up. He would be shocked that an explorer recently dived to the deepest part of the Pacific Ocean—seven miles!— and discovered a plastic bag and candy wrappers. Glen told me that, unfortunately, his generation did the damage and my generation is here to fix it. We need to take better care of Earth because if we don’t, we, as a species, will have failed.

Both Glen and I care deeply for our families and the earth, but for our third important value, I chose education and Glen chose integrity. My education is super important to me because without it, I would be a blank slate. I wouldn’t know how to figure out problems. I wouldn’t be able to tell right from wrong. I wouldn’t understand the Bill of Rights. I would be stuck. Everyone should be able to go to school, no matter where they’re from or who they are.  It makes me angry and sad to think that some people, especially girls, get shot because they are trying to go to school. I understand how lucky I am.

Integrity is sacred to Glen—I could tell by the serious tone of Glen’s voice when he told me that integrity was the code he lived by as a former state trooper. He knew that he had the power to change a person’s life, and he was committed to not abusing that power.  When Glen put someone under arrest—and my uncle says the same—his judgment and integrity were paramount. “Either you’re right or you’re wrong.” You can’t judge a person by what you think, you can only judge a person from what you know.”

I learned many things about Glen and what’s important in life, but there is one thing that stands out—something Glen always does and does well. Glen helps people. He did it as a state trooper, and he does it in our school, where he works on construction projects. Glen told me that he believes that our most powerful tools are writing and listening to others. I think those tools are important, too, but I also believe there are other tools to help solve many of our problems and create a better future: to be compassionate, to create caring relationships, and to help others. Just like Glen Tyrell does each and every day.

Isaac Ziemba is in seventh grade at the Odyssey Multiage Program on a small island called Bainbridge near Seattle, Washington. Isaac’s favorite subject in school is history because he has always been interested in how the past affects the future. In his spare time, you can find Isaac hunting for crab with his Dad, looking for artifacts around his house with his metal detector, and having fun with his younger cousin, Conner.     

Lily Hersch

 The Crest Academy, Salida, Colo.

why books are important in our life essay

The Phone Call

Dear Grandpa,

In my short span of life—12 years so far—you’ve taught me a lot of important life lessons that I’ll always have with me. Some of the values I talk about in this writing I’ve learned from you.

Dedicated to my Gramps.

In the YES! Magazine article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age,” author and photographer Nancy Hill asked people to name the three things that mattered most to them. After reading the essay prompt for the article, I immediately knew who I wanted to interview: my grandpa Gil.      

My grandpa was born on January 25, 1942. He lived in a minuscule tenement in The Bronx with his mother,

why books are important in our life essay

father, and brother. His father wasn’t around much, and, when he was, he was reticent and would snap occasionally, revealing his constrained mental pain. My grandpa says this happened because my great grandfather did not have a father figure in his life. His mother was a classy, sharp lady who was the head secretary at a local police district station. My grandpa and his brother Larry did not care for each other. Gramps said he was very close to his mother, and Larry wasn’t. Perhaps Larry was envious for what he didn’t have.

Decades after little to no communication with his brother, my grandpa decided to spontaneously visit him in Florida, where he resided with his wife. Larry was taken aback at the sudden reappearance of his brother and told him to leave. Since then, the two brothers have not been in contact. My grandpa doesn’t even know if Larry is alive.         

My grandpa is now a retired lawyer, married to my wonderful grandma, and living in a pretty house with an ugly dog named BoBo.

So, what’s important to you, Gramps?

He paused a second, then replied, “Family, kindness, and empathy.”

“Family, because it’s my family. It’s important to stay connected with your family. My brother, father, and I never connected in the way I wished, and sometimes I contemplated what could’ve happened.  But you can’t change the past. So, that’s why family’s important to me.”

Family will always be on my “Top Three Most Important Things” list, too. I can’t imagine not having my older brother, Zeke, or my grandma in my life. I wonder how other kids feel about their families? How do kids trapped and separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border feel?  What about orphans? Too many questions, too few answers.

“Kindness, because growing up and not seeing a lot of kindness made me realize how important it is to have that in the world. Kindness makes the world go round.”

What is kindness? Helping my brother, Eli, who has Down syndrome, get ready in the morning? Telling people what they need to hear, rather than what they want to hear? Maybe, for now, I’ll put wisdom, not kindness, on my list.

“Empathy, because of all the killings and shootings [in this country.] We also need to care for people—people who are not living in as good circumstances as I have. Donald Trump and other people I’ve met have no empathy. Empathy is very important.”

Empathy is something I’ve felt my whole life. It’ll always be important to me like it is important to my grandpa. My grandpa shows his empathy when he works with disabled children. Once he took a disabled child to a Christina Aguilera concert because that child was too young to go by himself. The moments I feel the most empathy are when Eli gets those looks from people. Seeing Eli wonder why people stare at him like he’s a freak makes me sad, and annoyed that they have the audacity to stare.

After this 2 minute and 36-second phone call, my grandpa has helped me define what’s most important to me at this time in my life: family, wisdom, and empathy. Although these things are important now, I realize they can change and most likely will.

When I’m an old woman, I envision myself scrambling through a stack of storage boxes and finding this paper. Perhaps after reading words from my 12-year-old self, I’ll ask myself “What’s important to me?”

Lily Hersch is a sixth-grader at Crest Academy in Salida, Colorado. Lily is an avid indoorsman, finding joy in competitive spelling, art, and of course, writing. She does not like Swiss cheese.

  “Tell It Like It Is” Interview Winner

Jonas Buckner

KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory, Gaston, N.C.

why books are important in our life essay

Lessons My Nana Taught Me

I walked into the house. In the other room, I heard my cousin screaming at his game. There were a lot of Pioneer Woman dishes everywhere. The room had the television on max volume. The fan in the other room was on. I didn’t know it yet, but I was about to learn something powerful.

I was in my Nana’s house, and when I walked in, she said, “Hey Monkey Butt.”

I said, “Hey Nana.”

Before the interview, I was talking to her about what I was gonna interview her on. Also, I had asked her why I might have wanted to interview her, and she responded with, “Because you love me, and I love you too.”

Now, it was time to start the interview. The first

why books are important in our life essay

question I asked was the main and most important question ever: “What three things matter most to you and you only?”

She thought of it very thoughtfully and responded with, “My grandchildren, my children, and my health.”

Then, I said, “OK, can you please tell me more about your health?”

She responded with, “My health is bad right now. I have heart problems, blood sugar, and that’s about it.” When she said it, she looked at me and smiled because she loved me and was happy I chose her to interview.

I replied with, “K um, why is it important to you?”

She smiled and said, “Why is it…Why is my health important? Well, because I want to live a long time and see my grandchildren grow up.”

I was scared when she said that, but she still smiled. I was so happy, and then I said, “Has your health always been important to you.”

She responded with “Nah.”

Then, I asked, “Do you happen to have a story to help me understand your reasoning?”

She said, “No, not really.”

Now we were getting into the next set of questions. I said, “Remember how you said that your grandchildren matter to you? Can you please tell me why they matter to you?”

Then, she responded with, “So I can spend time with them, play with them, and everything.”

Next, I asked the same question I did before: “Have you always loved your grandchildren?” 

She responded with, “Yes, they have always been important to me.”

Then, the next two questions I asked she had no response to at all. She was very happy until I asked, “Why do your children matter most to you?”

She had a frown on and responded, “My daughter Tammy died a long time ago.”

Then, at this point, the other questions were answered the same as the other ones. When I left to go home I was thinking about how her answers were similar to mine. She said health, and I care about my health a lot, and I didn’t say, but I wanted to. She also didn’t have answers for the last two questions on each thing, and I was like that too.

The lesson I learned was that no matter what, always keep pushing because even though my aunt or my Nana’s daughter died, she kept on pushing and loving everyone. I also learned that everything should matter to us. Once again, I chose to interview my Nana because she matters to me, and I know when she was younger she had a lot of things happen to her, so I wanted to know what she would say. The point I’m trying to make is that be grateful for what you have and what you have done in life.

Jonas Buckner is a sixth-grader at KIPP: Gaston College Preparatory in Gaston, North Carolina. Jonas’ favorite activities are drawing, writing, math, piano, and playing AltSpace VR. He found his passion for writing in fourth grade when he wrote a quick autobiography. Jonas hopes to become a horror writer someday.

From The Author: Responses to Student Winners

Dear Emily, Isaac, Antonia, Rory, Praethong, Amanda, Lily, and Jonas,

Your thought-provoking essays sent my head spinning. The more I read, the more impressed I was with the depth of thought, beauty of expression, and originality. It left me wondering just how to capture all of my reactions in a single letter. After multiple false starts, I’ve landed on this: I will stick to the theme of three most important things.

The three things I found most inspirational about your essays:

You listened.

You connected.

We live in troubled times. Tensions mount between countries, cultures, genders, religious beliefs, and generations. If we fail to find a way to understand each other, to see similarities between us, the future will be fraught with increased hostility.

You all took critical steps toward connecting with someone who might not value the same things you do by asking a person who is generations older than you what matters to them. Then, you listened to their answers. You saw connections between what is important to them and what is important to you. Many of you noted similarities, others wondered if your own list of the three most important things would change as you go through life. You all saw the validity of the responses you received and looked for reasons why your interviewees have come to value what they have.

It is through these things—asking, listening, and connecting—that we can begin to bridge the differences in experiences and beliefs that are currently dividing us.

Individual observations

Each one of you made observations that all of us, regardless of age or experience, would do well to keep in mind. I chose one quote from each person and trust those reading your essays will discover more valuable insights.

“Our priorities may seem different, but they come back to basic human needs. We all desire a purpose, strive to be happy, and work to make a positive impact.” 

“You can’t judge a person by what you think , you can only judge a person by what you know .”

Emily (referencing your interviewee, who is battling cancer):

“Master Chief Petty Officer James has shown me how to appreciate what I have around me.”

Lily (quoting your grandfather):

“Kindness makes the world go round.”

“Everything should matter to us.”

Praethong (quoting your interviewee, Sandra, on the importance of family):

“It’s important to always maintain that connection you have with each other, your family, not just next-door neighbors you talk to once a month.”

“I wonder if maybe we relearn what is most important when we grow older. That the pressure to be successful subsides and that valuing family, health, and happiness is what ends up saving the world.”

“Listen to what others have to say. Listen to the people who have already experienced hardship. You will learn from them and you can even make their day by giving them a chance to voice their thoughts.”

I end this letter to you with the hope that you never stop asking others what is most important to them and that you to continue to take time to reflect on what matters most to you…and why. May you never stop asking, listening, and connecting with others, especially those who may seem to be unlike you. Keep writing, and keep sharing your thoughts and observations with others, for your ideas are awe-inspiring.

I also want to thank the more than 1,000 students who submitted essays. Together, by sharing what’s important to us with others, especially those who may believe or act differently, we can fill the world with joy, peace, beauty, and love.

We received many outstanding essays for the Winter 2019 Student Writing Competition. Though not every participant can win the contest, we’d like to share some excerpts that caught our eye:

Whether it is a painting on a milky canvas with watercolors or pasting photos onto a scrapbook with her granddaughters, it is always a piece of artwork to her. She values the things in life that keep her in the moment, while still exploring things she may not have initially thought would bring her joy.

—Ondine Grant-Krasno, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif.

“Ganas”… It means “desire” in Spanish. My ganas is fueled by my family’s belief in me. I cannot and will not fail them. 

—Adan Rios, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

I hope when I grow up I can have the love for my kids like my grandma has for her kids. She makes being a mother even more of a beautiful thing than it already is.

—Ashley Shaw, Columbus City Prep School for Girls, Grove City, Ohio

You become a collage of little pieces of your friends and family. They also encourage you to be the best you can be. They lift you up onto the seat of your bike, they give you the first push, and they don’t hesitate to remind you that everything will be alright when you fall off and scrape your knee.

— Cecilia Stanton, Bellafonte Area Middle School, Bellafonte, Pa.

Without good friends, I wouldn’t know what I would do to endure the brutal machine of public education.

—Kenneth Jenkins, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.

My dog, as ridiculous as it may seem, is a beautiful example of what we all should aspire to be. We should live in the moment, not stress, and make it our goal to lift someone’s spirits, even just a little.

—Kate Garland, Immaculate Heart Middle School, Los Angeles, Calif. 

I strongly hope that every child can spare more time to accompany their elderly parents when they are struggling, and moving forward, and give them more care and patience. so as to truly achieve the goal of “you accompany me to grow up, and I will accompany you to grow old.”

—Taiyi Li, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

I have three cats, and they are my brothers and sisters. We share a special bond that I think would not be possible if they were human. Since they do not speak English, we have to find other ways to connect, and I think that those other ways can be more powerful than language.

—Maya Dombroskie, Delta Program Middle School, Boulsburg, Pa.

We are made to love and be loved. To have joy and be relational. As a member of the loneliest generation in possibly all of history, I feel keenly aware of the need for relationships and authentic connection. That is why I decided to talk to my grandmother.

—Luke Steinkamp, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio

After interviewing my grandma and writing my paper, I realized that as we grow older, the things that are important to us don’t change, what changes is why those things are important to us.

—Emily Giffer, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Grosse Pointe Woods, Mich.

The media works to marginalize elders, often isolating them and their stories, and the wealth of knowledge that comes with their additional years of lived experiences. It also undermines the depth of children’s curiosity and capacity to learn and understand. When the worlds of elders and children collide, a classroom opens.

—Cristina Reitano, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.

My values, although similar to my dad, only looked the same in the sense that a shadow is similar to the object it was cast on.

—Timofey Lisenskiy, Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, Calif.

I can release my anger through writing without having to take it out on someone. I can escape and be a different person; it feels good not to be myself for a while. I can make up my own characters, so I can be someone different every day, and I think that’s pretty cool.

—Jasua Carillo, Wellness, Business, and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore. 

Notice how all the important things in his life are people: the people who he loves and who love him back. This is because “people are more important than things like money or possessions, and families are treasures,” says grandpa Pat. And I couldn’t agree more.

—Brody Hartley, Garrison Middle School, Walla Walla, Wash.  

Curiosity for other people’s stories could be what is needed to save the world.

—Noah Smith, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio

Peace to me is a calm lake without a ripple in sight. It’s a starry night with a gentle breeze that pillows upon your face. It’s the absence of arguments, fighting, or war. It’s when egos stop working against each other and finally begin working with each other. Peace is free from fear, anxiety, and depression. To me, peace is an important ingredient in the recipe of life.

—JP Bogan, Lane Community College, Eugene, Ore.

From A Teacher

Charles Sanderson

Wellness, Business and Sports School, Woodburn, Ore. 

why books are important in our life essay

The Birthday Gift

I’ve known Jodelle for years, watching her grow from a quiet and timid twelve-year-old to a young woman who just returned from India, where she played Kabaddi, a kind of rugby meets Red Rover.

One of my core beliefs as an educator is to show up for the things that matter to kids, so I go to their games, watch their plays, and eat the strawberry jam they make for the county fair. On this occasion, I met Jodelle at a robotics competition to watch her little sister Abby compete. Think Nerd Paradise: more hats made from traffic cones than Golden State Warrior ball caps, more unicorn capes than Nike swooshes, more fanny packs with Legos than clutches with eyeliner.

We started chatting as the crowd chanted and waved six-foot flags for teams like Mystic Biscuits, Shrek, and everyone’s nemesis The Mean Machine. Apparently, when it’s time for lunch at a robotics competition, they don’t mess around. The once-packed gym was left to Jodelle and me, and we kept talking and talking. I eventually asked her about the three things that matter to her most.

She told me about her mom, her sister, and her addiction—to horses. I’ve read enough of her writing to know that horses were her drug of choice and her mom and sister were her support network.

I learned about her desire to become a teacher and how hours at the barn with her horse, Heart, recharge her when she’s exhausted. At one point, our rambling conversation turned to a topic I’ve known far too well—her father.

Later that evening, I received an email from Jodelle, and she had a lot to say. One line really struck me: “In so many movies, I have seen a dad wanting to protect his daughter from the world, but I’ve only understood the scene cognitively. Yesterday, I felt it.”

Long ago, I decided that I would never be a dad. I had seen movies with fathers and daughters, and for me, those movies might as well have been Star Wars, ET, or Alien—worlds filled with creatures I’d never know. However, over the years, I’ve attended Jodelle’s parent-teacher conferences, gone to her graduation, and driven hours to watch her ride Heart at horse shows. Simply, I showed up. I listened. I supported.

Jodelle shared a series of dad poems, as well. I had read the first two poems in their original form when Jodelle was my student. The revised versions revealed new graphic details of her past. The third poem, however, was something entirely different.

She called the poems my early birthday present. When I read the lines “You are my father figure/Who I look up to/Without being looked down on,” I froze for an instant and had to reread the lines. After fifty years of consciously deciding not to be a dad, I was seen as one—and it felt incredible. Jodelle’s poem and recognition were two of the best presents I’ve ever received.

I  know that I was the language arts teacher that Jodelle needed at the time, but her poem revealed things I never knew I taught her: “My father figure/ Who taught me/ That listening is for observing the world/ That listening is for learning/Not obeying/Writing is for connecting/Healing with others.”

Teaching is often a thankless job, one that frequently brings more stress and anxiety than joy and hope. Stress erodes my patience. Anxiety curtails my ability to enter each interaction with every student with the grace they deserve. However, my time with Jodelle reminds me of the importance of leaning in and listening.

In the article “Three Things That Matter Most in Youth and Old Age” by Nancy Hill, she illuminates how we “live among such remarkable people, yet few know their stories.” For the last twenty years, I’ve had the privilege to work with countless of these “remarkable people,” and I’ve done my best to listen, and, in so doing, I hope my students will realize what I’ve known for a long time; their voices matter and deserve to be heard, but the voices of their tias and abuelitos and babushkas are equally important. When we take the time to listen, I believe we do more than affirm the humanity of others; we affirm our own as well.

Charles Sanderson has grounded his nineteen-year teaching career in a philosophy he describes as “Mirror, Window, Bridge.” Charles seeks to ensure all students see themselves, see others, and begin to learn the skills to build bridges of empathy, affinity, and understanding between communities and cultures that may seem vastly different. He proudly teaches at the Wellness, Business and Sports School in Woodburn, Oregon, a school and community that brings him joy and hope on a daily basis.

From   The Author: Response to Charles Sanderson

Dear Charles Sanderson,

Thank you for submitting an essay of your own in addition to encouraging your students to participate in YES! Magazine’s essay contest.

Your essay focused not on what is important to you, but rather on what is important to one of your students. You took what mattered to her to heart, acting upon it by going beyond the school day and creating a connection that has helped fill a huge gap in her life. Your efforts will affect her far beyond her years in school. It is clear that your involvement with this student is far from the only time you have gone beyond the classroom, and while you are not seeking personal acknowledgment, I cannot help but applaud you.

In an ideal world, every teacher, every adult, would show the same interest in our children and adolescents that you do. By taking the time to listen to what is important to our youth, we can help them grow into compassionate, caring adults, capable of making our world a better place.

Your concerted efforts to guide our youth to success not only as students but also as human beings is commendable. May others be inspired by your insights, concerns, and actions. You define excellence in teaching.

Get Stories of Solutions to Share with Your Classroom

Teachers save 50% on YES! Magazine.

Inspiration in Your Inbox

Get the free daily newsletter from YES! Magazine: Stories of people creating a better world to inspire you and your students.

Lawrence R. Samuel Ph.D.

Why Do We Still Read Books?

Humans appear to have a primal need for narrative and the written word..

Posted May 12, 2024 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

  • People predicted that reading books would become extinct due to digital technology.
  • Reading books has remained a popular activity in the Digital Age.
  • Reading appears to be a basic human drive rooted in cognition.

As it became clear in the 1990s that digital culture would transform everyday life, many critics predicted that books would go the way of the horse and buggy. Books, and print culture in general, would soon be seen as anachronisms in a world in which information was sent and received by more advanced technology, they held, echoing experts who expressed a similar opinion when television appeared a half-century earlier.

Print culture has not become obsolete, however, and reading books, both as hard copies and in digital form, remains a popular activity. In fact, book sales have been robust in recent years, partly due to the pandemic. Sales of print books rose 9 percent in 2021, according to Publishers Weekly , and the market has remained strong since then.

Why is this so? What is it about books, which have been around in some form since 500 BC (as hand-written scrolls) that make them an essential feature of the human condition?

Bright minds have offered some answers to these questions, one of them being Carmen Martin Gaite, who expressed her views in 1989. “Reading provides insight into a secret world that liberates one from the hostile pressures of the environment , from the routines and deceptions that the confrontation with reality produces,” she wrote, having experienced that special feeling at an early age.

It was ironic that this “prize awarded by reading,” as Gaite described it, was being recognized and appreciated at a time when sitting down with a book was already being seen by some as an antiquated, even absurd practice. The concentration required by deliberate reading afforded a sense of calm in an increasingly frenetic world, Gaite held, considering the chance to escape from the noise and chaos and embrace solitude “a miraculous feat.”

In his 1988 Lost in a Book: The Psychology of Reading for Pleasure , Victor Nell said much the same thing. Reading was for Nell, as he began his book, “as rousing, colorful and transfiguring as anything out there in the real world” and a rare opportunity to “acquire peace, become more powerful, and feel braver and wiser.”

Alongside such musings, Nell provided statistics drawn from clinical research that lent evidence to his argument that reading offered psychological benefits to those who took the time to do it. Reading was not just a joyful experience but a nearly universal one, he pointed out, implying that there was a basic human drive to both produce and consume narrative. Losing oneself in a book, as the title of his suggested, was good for both brain and body, the research showed—something that devoted readers already knew.

The questioning of the role of reading in the digital age provoked a flurry of thoughts that offered keen insights into why people chose to spend their valuable time looking at words in a book or on a screen. Why read rather than watch a film, listen to music, or take a walk in the park?

Barbara Herrnstein Smith asked that good question and provided some equally good answers. For her, reading was essentially a certain kind of scanning of the environment, i.e., a visual attempt to determine what was good or bad out there in the world. People scan the environment all the time in such a way, a natural instinct to assess signs to gain information that might be useful.

As a cognitive activity, reading could serve all kinds of purposes, with particular ones contingent on the motive of the individual in relation to the material. “What reading can do depends on who is doing the reading as much as on what is being read,” Smith wrote, with “personal, cultural, and intellectual histories, distinctive situations, interests, and anxieties, and distinctive physiologies, including brain wiring,” entering the equation.

Durable, resilient , and somehow resistant to external forces, reading at its core remains a fundamental human endeavor, and reports of its impending death are greatly exaggerated. Reading books, whether fiction, non-fiction, or everything in between, is not just a sanctuary from the cultural storm but a healing, therapeutic agent that appears to be based in brain chemistry.

Nell, Victor. (1988). Lost in a Book: The Psychology of Reading for Pleasure. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press.

Samuel, Lawrence R. (2024). Literacy in America: A Cultural History of the Past Century. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.

Lawrence R. Samuel Ph.D.

Lawrence R. Samuel, Ph.D. , is an American cultural historian who holds a Ph.D. in American Studies and was a Smithsonian Institution Fellow.

  • Find a Therapist
  • Find a Treatment Center
  • Find a Psychiatrist
  • Find a Support Group
  • Find Online Therapy
  • International
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Switzerland
  • Asperger's
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Eating Disorders
  • Passive Aggression
  • Personality
  • Goal Setting
  • Positive Psychology
  • Stopping Smoking
  • Low Sexual Desire
  • Relationships
  • Child Development
  • Self Tests NEW
  • Therapy Center
  • Diagnosis Dictionary
  • Types of Therapy

May 2024 magazine cover

At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Gaslighting
  • Affective Forecasting
  • Neuroscience

Bobbie’s Bests for Less: 50% off handbags, skin care, more

  • TODAY Plaza
  • Share this —

Health & Wellness

  • Watch Full Episodes
  • Read With Jenna
  • Inspirational
  • Relationships
  • TODAY Table
  • Newsletters
  • Start TODAY
  • Shop TODAY Awards
  • Citi Concert Series
  • Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

  • On The Show

The day I returned home after being kidnapped by Islamic terrorists

Beth and Tommy in Portaledge in a tent on the side of a cliff

Beth Rodden is a professional rock climber who, along with three other climbers, was kidnapped and held hostage by Islamic militants in 2000 while on a climbing trip in Kyrgyzstan. The following is excerpted from her new memoir, “A Light Through the Cracks,” about the day she returned home to the U.S. 

Amsterdam, August 2000

By the time my boyfriend, Tommy Caldwell, and I made it to Amsterdam’s gleaming, sterile airport, we had been passed along a half dozen times, like an important but increasingly well-worn package. Military helicopters had brought us and our other two climbing partners from base to base. We’d endured a surreal ride on a private jet from the last military base to the capital, Bishkek, traveling alongside the tipsy and jovial president of Kyrgyzstan. He’d patted us on the shoulders like a grandfather and claimed us long enough for a photo op and a speech to local media in a language we couldn’t understand. Then he handed the four of us off to the American embassy, which scrambled to find us flights home. A few days later, Tommy and I drove across the Kazakhstan border, in a hired car with a diplomatic escort, to the international airport in Almaty, and finally a commercial jet took us from Central Asia to the edge of the Atlantic. Now we had just one more flight to go.

Our tickets were a last-minute mess, and we needed to check on our connection. As we crossed the terminal, I carried a brown paper gift bag from the airport candy shop — despite what we’d been through, I still wanted to bring my older brother a present from this trip. I watched the families clustered around the gates, the lone business travelers perched at the bars, scanning each face around me. I’d been on edge through practically every step of the journey: The embassy in Bishkek had felt almost safe, but at the hotel where they’d sent us to get some sleep, I’d felt vulnerable and stayed vigilant.

Book

In the airport, I was hungry again. When we’d made it to the second army base, the one that felt like a cluster of portable classrooms set down on a vast brown plain, we’d stuffed ourselves with barley and warm buttered bread, but I could not stay full. I had just eaten two chocolate croissants. Still, my stomach felt like a cavern. My brother didn’t really need a present, did he?

I ate half the chocolate in the bag before we got to our gate.

The line at the KLM Royal Dutch Airlines counter felt so orderly. The whole airport did. Just existing there felt like getting a big, soothing hug. When we’d boarded the flight in Kazakhstan, the passengers had formed no line. Everybody just pushed in a scrum toward the plane. Tommy and I stood frozen, like the good, shocked scouts that we were, and got lost in the flood. I felt so fragile, so extremely fragile, and so resigned to that fragile state.

We weren’t safe. That was obvious to me. No line, no order, no rule of law. I loved rules. People smoked openly on that first plane.

“Next,” the flight attendant said as we arrived at the counter. Her voice was as professionally cheerful as her uniform: light blue skirt, light blue jacket, white blouse underneath.

“We’re here to check in for our flight,” I said.

“Wonderful. May I please have your boarding passes?”

I mumbled something apologetic and handed her a few crumpled, dirty sheets of paper. “I think we have to get our seats and stuff from you.”

She pinched her brow as she read our mess of documents. She typed vigorously. I was sure this meant we weren’t going to make it home.

“Can you wait one second?” she asked, flashing a strained smile. She disappeared behind a wall.

Beth Rodden climbing a boulder

I looked at Tommy. He stared into the blank space where the woman had just been. I couldn’t tell if he was as scared as I was, if he was also monitoring the people pooling and flowing around us for any threat. I felt like I had grown an invisible antenna that vibrated continually, never at rest. Never letting me rest. A memory tried to surface inside me: a body in silhouette, sailing off a dark cliff. A crunch, and an exhale. I forced it back down.

Two blond attendants now appeared where there had been one.

“Can you tell me: Was it something KLM did?” the new flight attendant asked.

I looked back at Tommy. Did he know what she was talking about? Did she know what had happened? Tommy shrugged.

“Wait, what?” I said. “What was something . . . ?”

“Well, um, how to say this,” the flight attendant said. “It says on your tickets, ‘Emotionally distressed passengers, please take care.’ So, we are just wondering if it’s something KLM did.” She looked concerned and defensive in her caring, like a hospital billing manager. She didn’t want to know the answer, but she had to ask.

I didn’t want a stranger to try to comfort me, but I did feel the need to comfort her. So I said, “Oh no, definitely not. We were just kidnapped and we want to go home.”

I couldn’t believe how easily the sentence came out. We were just kidnapped . . . I’d never said it so plainly before.

The flight attendant exhaled all her breath at once, stunned and relieved. “Well, good,” she said.

Well, good?

“KLM does our best. How about business-class seats for you two?” She printed our fresh, flat boarding passes. Tommy and I boarded the plane.

We ate every meal and every snack that was offered to us on the long ride home. My hunger was like a portal opened into a galaxy — infinite, absolute. When I was in middle school, I used to watch my older brother, David, eat, stunned by the mountain of food he could consume. Now, it felt strangely freeing to eat with that type of abandon. I hadn’t done that since ninth grade, when I became obsessed with climbing.

I could eat, but I still couldn’t sleep. My anxiety kept me wide awake, and my wakefulness in turn meant I had nothing but space and time for the anxiety to spin itself tighter in my body. I kept wondering if the plane would crash. That seemed possible, maybe even probable, given how the rest of our trip had gone. An appropriate ending, in a way. I wondered if I’d be scared. What would Tommy say to me before impact? Would it hurt? Our backpack, stuffed at our feet, was filled with souvenirs purchased in a blur during our strange interlude in Bishkek, between our flight with the president and our diplomatic drive across the border. I had stuffed the paltry remains of the airport chocolate into our bag alongside the rest of the things we’d acquired: a hand-carved wooden chess set, a wool hanging. Proof that we’d done something major and been somewhere cool. What were we thinking?

Beth Rodden

The backpack that sat at our feet had been lost in transit when we’d first landed in Kyrgyzstan, full of hope for our climbing adventure, and was waiting for us, perversely intact, at the hotel in Bishkek after our escape. We’d left San Francisco with 20 expedition duffels, and all I had left was this backpack filled with trinkets from a country to which I’d never return. Maybe that was why we’d bought them, with the money Tommy had wadded up in his sock just before we were marched away from our camp at gunpoint. Maybe it was some attempt to fabricate a decent memory of the place.

My hands trembled the whole 12 hours to San Francisco. I knew I needed sleep, but if the plane did crash, wasn’t I supposed to be awake for that? I had no idea how to act, what to do or say or who to be when we saw our parents. I’d left as a 20-year-old girl full of herself, ready for the world, sure I was doing something extraordinary. I was living out the dream I’d stared at in the posters I hung on my bedroom wall: climbing to incredible heights in far-off places. My mother had hardly traveled, certainly not by my age. I’d felt so awfully superior as I’d walked down the jetway when we left. I didn’t even turn back to wave.

My parents had given me everything — pride, freedom, confidence. They trusted me. They trusted my decisions. They trusted the world. Now I was returning home a broken mess. I’d spoken to them a few times from the embassy in Bishkek, the words mainly drowned in my tears. I wanted to be small again, so small I could crawl through the phone into their arms, where they’d hold me and shush me and stroke my head. I wanted my mother to say, “Mama’s here, Mama’s here,” just like she always did when I was a girl. I wanted to shrink back into that little-girl body and lay my head in her lap and cry.

How was I supposed to carry myself getting off the jetway? Was the idea to act strong, like I was fine? I was weirdly good at that. Or should I literally run into their arms?

Now — how to do this? How was I supposed to carry myself getting off the jetway? Was the idea to act strong, like I was fine? I was weirdly good at that. Or should I literally run into their arms, like I had been dreaming of doing for the past eight days? I’d never spoken easily with my parents about feelings. They were so kind, so present, and gently but firmly on my team. But inside, I always felt nervous, like there was a line I was afraid to cross, like I needed to be tougher, solid, unbreakable. And even if I could lay my head in my mother’s lap and have her say, “Mama’s here,” would that still work to soothe me? I was not the same person I had been when I left. My thoughts flapped like the loose end of a film in an old-fashioned movie projector, the front reel spinning empty.

I looked over at Tommy. Maybe he’d know what to do. His head was slumped at a 45-degree angle to his chest, his mouth dropped open, snoring. He was sick. His brain was more lucid and less spastic than mine, but his body was breaking down. He had a fever. I envied Tommy’s oblivion. I felt so alone.

We landed. My palms were sweating, but Tommy’s hands felt strong. That felt like a plan: I’d hold his strong hand and we’d present a united front, though I hadn’t told him about my looping, flapping mind. I was trying to stay composed — for him, for me, maybe for my parents too. We collected our bag of souvenirs from under the airplane seats. The souvenirs promised our trip was normal. We were normal. I grabbed a free chocolate bar and a package of cookies from the plane’s galley as we exited. I never did anything like that, but now instead of saying, “Don’t eat that, Rodden,” I thought, “Just in case we don’t have any other food.”

I didn’t race off the plane like I had seen people do in movies, straight into their loved ones’ arms. Instead I walked so slowly that other passengers started passing us. I was desperate to return home, to the narrow twin bed in my parents’ house, on our quiet block filled with minivans and white Honda sedans, to replant myself in the flat farmland around Davis, California, to recommit to the safe wide sidewalks. I just didn’t know how. I wondered if people could tell we’d changed: if we walked differently or stood slightly less straight, if we’d absorbed so much fear and terror that we now emitted it.

Excerpted from “A Light Through the Cracks: A Climber’s Story,” by Beth Rodden. © 2024 Published by Little A Books, May 1, 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Beth Rodden is the author of “A Light Through the Cracks: A Climber’s Story,” out May 2024. 

why books are important in our life essay

After 20 years, I met my childhood hero: The local news anchor who looked like me

why books are important in our life essay

I ran away from a troubled teen program and escaped for good. This is my story

why books are important in our life essay

No one wants the family spinning wheel. So why is it so hard to get rid of?

why books are important in our life essay

How my (many) wedding superstitions saved my marriage

why books are important in our life essay

Can you get better at small talk? Here's what happened when I tried to

why books are important in our life essay

I did my own makeup on my wedding day. Here’s how it went

why books are important in our life essay

Why I’m happy to be my husband’s second wife

why books are important in our life essay

I got a psychic reading 3 months after losing my dad. How it helped me heal

why books are important in our life essay

I was 1 of millions who traveled for the eclipse. Here's how it went

why books are important in our life essay

My fiancé is 17 years older than me and I’m sick of the age-gap conversation

IMAGES

  1. Essay on Why Are Books so Important in Our Life for Students in English

    why books are important in our life essay

  2. The importance of books in our life

    why books are important in our life essay

  3. Importance of Books in Our Life I Leverage Edu

    why books are important in our life essay

  4. Essay on Importance of Reading Books 150 words and 250 Words: Unlocking

    why books are important in our life essay

  5. Why Are Books so Important in Our Life Essay In English

    why books are important in our life essay

  6. 15 Reasons Why Books Are Important

    why books are important in our life essay

VIDEO

  1. Why You Should Read Books

  2. Write 10 lines on Importance of Books

  3. Education is important our life

  4. Why We Should Read Books

  5. study is very important our life so start study now #motivational #motivation #success #study

  6. The importance of Reading Books

COMMENTS

  1. Importance of Books Essay

    500 Words Essay on Importance of Books. Books are an invaluable part of our lives. They are the inevitable tool for knowledge, and entertainment and have been proven to be stress relievers. Books can help us experience new worlds, explore deep insights into the world and help us form a wider perspective. Books have the power to inspire and ...

  2. Importance of Books in Our Life

    Here are the top 20 benefits of the importance of books in our life: Books are our best friends. Books illuminate your imagination. Books help you form your unique perspective of the world around you. Books build confidence. Books help you grow mentally and emotionally. Books enhance your vocabulary.

  3. The Lifelong Benefits of Reading: How Books Can Transform Your Life

    From broadening our horizons and enhancing our empathy to improving our cognitive abilities and reducing stress, books have the remarkable ability to shape and transform us. In this article, we will delve into the countless ways in which reading can enrich our lives, offering a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

  4. Why Are Books Important? (60+ Reasons from Experts)

    So, although books are important, comprehension is the key for students and adults. Once comprehension is established, imagination, knowledge of the outside world, improvement in writing and speaking skills are all things that books offer. An added bonus is that it boosts our memory and intelligence. Lynn Wolfe.

  5. Essay on Importance of Books

    They have shaped societies, sparked revolutions, and influenced the course of history. Despite the digital revolution, the importance of books remains unassailable. This essay elucidates the significance of books in our lives and society. Books as a Source of Knowledge. Books are a treasure trove of knowledge.

  6. Essay On Why Are Books So Important In Our Life

    Long Essay On Why Are Books So Important In Our Life. Books have been a part of human life since the dawn of history. They provide us with knowledge, wisdom and a unique perspective on the world around us. In this essay, we explore why books are so essential to our lives and how they can help us grow as individuals.

  7. Why Reading Is Important In Our Life: Uncovering 20 Benefits Of Reading

    That's why reading is important in our life as a valuable tool for sharpening the mind and honing the skill of unwavering concentration. 4. Reading is Important in Enhancing Imagination. Reading fiction and other forms of creative writing stimulates our imagination. It's a gateway to boundless imagination.

  8. Essay on Importance of Books 200+ Words

    In conclusion, the importance of books cannot be overstated. They are the vessels of knowledge, the keys to imagination, and the guardians of our cultural heritage. Books educate, inspire, and entertain, making them indispensable in our lives. As we turn their pages, we embark on journeys of discovery, empathy, and growth.

  9. Essays About Books: Top 5 Examples and Writing Prompts

    Books offer unlimited benefits if well used, but not when abused, and as the writer said, "no book can be good if studied negligently.". 5. Long Essay on Books by Ram. "Books are important because they provide a few things that are key to an open and intelligent society.".

  10. 26 Reasons Why Books are Important in Our Life

    People can lose themselves in a good book and forget about the troubles of the world. This can be a much-needed break from the stress of daily life. 6. Reading Books can improve vocabulary: We all know that reading is important, but what many of us may not realize is just how beneficial it can be for our vocabulary.

  11. The Importance of Books in Our Life

    They transport us to different worlds, introduce us to diverse characters, and ignite our imagination. Through books, we can experience adventures, solve mysteries, and explore new ideas. They stimulate our minds and foster our creativity. Books also play a crucial role in our personal growth and development.

  12. Why reading books is good for society, wellbeing and your career

    Studies show a range of psychological benefits from book-reading. Reading fiction can increase your capacity for empathy, through the process of seeing the world through a relatable character ...

  13. Importance Of Books

    Long Essay On 'The Importance Of Books' In English For Children. A long essay for class 3 can range over 300 words. Children have to maintain coherence throughout the paragraphs and employ good storytelling. Here is an example of a long essay on the importance of books in our life: Books are more than just pages with printed text.

  14. Essay on Why are Books Important in Our Life for Students ...

    Essay on Books are our Best Friends- 300 Words. The importance of books cannot be overstated; they are essential tools that help us navigate our lives. Reading books allows us to enter a world that is entirely different from your own. You can travel through time, visit new places, and experience things you may never encounter in real life.

  15. Opinion

    The Importance of Reading Books. A reader says they are a gateway to the past, and essential now more than ever. To the Editor: Re " Why You Should Binge-Read ," by Ben Dolnick (Sunday Review ...

  16. Importance of books in our life.

    Sep 27, 2023. --. Books are more than just words on paper. They are sources of knowledge, wisdom, inspiration, entertainment, and joy. Books can open our minds to new perspectives, challenge our ...

  17. Essay on Why Are Books so Important in Our Life

    1) Books are important because they give us knowledge. 2) Reading books can help in improving our reading skills. 3) Books can be a novel, storybooks, academic books, religious books, etc. 4) Books hold the solution to our every problem. 5) Books help us in developing a good personality.

  18. Why We Still Need Books in the 21st Century

    In the 21st century, social media lured multitudes away from reading books and interacting in person. At first young adults dominated it. Then those of us who were older jumped on board ...

  19. Stories Matter: Why Stories Are Important to Our Lives and Culture

    Stories preserve culture and pass on cultural knowledge from one generation to another. In essence, stories keep cultures alive. Stories provide a timeless link to ancient traditions, legends, myths, and archetypes. But they also connect us to universal truths about ourselves and our world. Through stories, we share passions, fears, sadness ...

  20. The Importance of Reading Books in the Digital Age: Why ...

    In a world where technology seems to have taken over our lives, the value of reading books may seem to have diminished. ... In this essay, I will argue why reading books is crucial in today's ...

  21. Essay on Importance of Books in our life

    Books are worth reading…. 1. Books are our best friends. Friends are the important part of our life. We cannot imagine our life without the companionship of a good friend. Life is much more fun when we have Books as our Friend. A good book as a friend can make you a successful person in your life. 2.

  22. Eight Brilliant Student Essays on What Matters Most in Life

    He suffers from a rare blood cancer—the result of the wars he fought in. Roger has good and bad days. He says, "The good outweighs the bad, so I have to be grateful for what I have on those good days.". When Roger retired, he never thought the effects of the war would reach him.

  23. Why Do We Still Read Books?

    Key points. People predicted that reading books would become extinct due to digital technology. Reading books has remained a popular activity in the Digital Age. Reading appears to be a basic ...

  24. I Met My Childhood Hero: The Local News Anchor Who Looked Like Me

    This story was first published on May 28, 2021. If you ask kids who their childhood heroes are, they'll probably mention characters and celebrities they see on-screen. If you're my age ...

  25. Beth Rodden: The Day I Returned Home After Being Kidnapped

    Courtesy John Dickey. Beth Rodden is a professional rock climber who, along with three other climbers, was kidnapped and held hostage by Islamic militants in 2000 while on a climbing trip in ...