Now that the summer’s here, it’s time to step away from those complicated school assignments and step back to the fundamentals: reading. Despite being constantly encouraged when we were younger to read, we all know what it’s like to hit high school or college and forget what it means to read for pleasure. It’s easy to ask yourself Why should I read when I get the same value of entertainment faster and easier through a television show? There are many answers, but perhaps the most obvious reason is that it keeps your brain sharp despite the summer sun’s attempt to melt away your intellect. Getting caught up in a good story provides more than televisions twenty-minute quick fix for entertainment, and a good book will leave you thinking for days. Finishing a book also comes with a sense of accomplishment (and bragging rights among your friends!).
Take a minute and think about the last book you read. I think it safe to assume that most of you have read some or all of the Harry Potter series. Did you enjoy it? I’ll take your answer as a Yes. Did you continue on to read more fantasy or science fiction books? No? Why is that? Didn’t think you’d enjoy a fantasy book? Guess what? You already have!
Now, I’d like to propose something to you. Pick up a book this summer in a genre completely different than the one you’re used to; my suggestion, if you haven’t already, is in the science fiction category. They’re not so different from themes you’re already used to. They’ve got some romance, friendship, great characters, as well as thrilling adventures that keep you on the (metaphorical) edge of your seat. Delving into a new genre could introduce you not only to different styles of writing that help you as a writer, but also different people who share that genre with you.
And you never know, you might find that you love this new world that you happened upon.
If you’re still hesitant, try something in the middle ground, like ‘Never Let me Go’ by Kazuo Ishiguro, the story of a girl growing up in a specialized school whose true purpose is kept a secret to the students. This book will leave you questioning the ethics of modern science while telling the touching tale of three best friends and how they reunite.
More than anything, take a break from the tight scheduling of college requirements this summer and try something new and different.
/elizabeth Kaleko
Picture from: www.clipartguide.com/
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