In a world that seems to be constantly rushing, there’s an ever-increasing trend of reading challenges that encourage individuals to devour books at an astonishing pace. One such challenge that has gained significant popularity is the “read 100 books in a year” challenge. While some people find exhilaration in conquering this challenge, I have a different perspective. I believe that reading should be about more than just numbers, and in this blog post, I will elaborate on why I will never participate in one of these book reading challenges.
The Joy of Savouring
When I pick up a book, I’m not just looking to finish it quickly and move on to the next. I want to immerse myself in the world the author has created, get to know the characters intimately, and savour the beauty of the language. I find immense joy in reading slowly, letting the story unfold at its own pace, and allowing myself to fully appreciate the intricacies of the narrative. For me, reading is not a race; it’s a leisurely stroll through the pages of a book.
Connection with Characters
Characters in books become friends, confidantes, and sometimes even adversaries. Rushing through a hundred books in a year doesn’t give me the opportunity to form deep connections with these characters. I want to feel their joys and sorrows, understand their motivations, and ponder their dilemmas long after I’ve turned the final page. Reading slowly allows me to forge a lasting bond with the characters, making the experience more meaningful and memorable.
Reflecting on Themes and Ideas
Great literature often explores profound themes and ideas that deserve contemplation. Reading a book is not just about reaching the last page; it’s about engaging with the author’s thoughts and perspectives. I relish the opportunity to reflect on the themes presented in a book, to discuss them with others, and to apply them to my own life. Rushing through multiple books in a short period leaves little room for this valuable introspection.
Avoiding Burnout
Participating in a 100-book reading challenge can feel like an exhausting marathon. Reading should be a source of relaxation and enjoyment, not a stress-inducing race against the clock. The pressure to meet a quota of books can lead to burnout, making reading feel like a chore rather than a pleasure. I prefer to approach books with a sense of anticipation and curiosity, not as items on a checklist.
Diversity of Reading Material
One of the pitfalls of reading challenges that focus on quantity is the tendency to prioritize shorter and easier-to-read books. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a quick read, limiting oneself to these types of books can lead to missing out on the depth and complexity found in longer, more challenging works. I value the diversity of reading material and believe that every book, regardless of its length, has something unique to offer.
Quality Over Quantity
In the era of social media and instant gratification, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that more is always better. However, I firmly believe that quality should always take precedence over quantity. A single, thought-provoking book can have a more profound impact on a reader than a hundred mediocre ones. I choose to invest my time in books that enrich my life and broaden my horizons, rather than racing through a vast number of titles.
In a world where speed often triumphs over depth, I choose to take a different path when it comes to reading. While the allure of completing a 100-book reading challenge may be tempting to some, I find greater satisfaction in savouring each book, connecting with characters, reflecting on themes, and valuing the quality of my reading experiences over the quantity. For me, reading is not a competition, but a lifelong journey of exploration and self-discovery. So, I’ll continue to enjoy each book at my own pace, letting the characters linger in my thoughts long after the last page, and relishing the magic of the written word.