I hate to break it to you, but reading books isn’t really common anymore. In a society that values phones over books, it’s hard to find people who really love to read. Teenagers nowadays have lost interest in reading and finding importance in the use of words. 

However, I don’t think we are a lost cause. If more teenagers become aware of the benefits and the value that it holds, I hope that it will change their minds towards reading. Not only does reading exercise one’s mind, it helps a person understand language better and the way that vocabulary functions. 

Believe it or not, reading helps to stimulate a person’s mind and it is a great way to reduce stress–which is beneficial, especially for teenagers. 

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Well, how is this going to help me want to read?” To be honest, I can’t really make you read, but the best advice I can give is to just start small. 

Find a genre that interests you whether it be mystery, action, fantasy, or romance. Then start reading little by little, if you find yourself losing concentration, read in increments, or perhaps try a new book. 

Sooner or later, you’ll find yourself enjoying to read. Often times I hear people say, “Reading isn’t for me.” Trust me, it is. Perhaps it’s the book that isn’t for you, but one thing to remember is that as humans we are meant to communicate and create ideas, reading just happens to be an art form that does just this and more. It’s the foundation of all that we tend to know. 

Above all, reading is a safe place for many, a way to escape reality. Reading is a skill and enjoyment that we should all at some point develop. We all deserve a way to escape and find a new reality and reading just happens to be one of the ways.

Still not sure where to start? Check out some recommendations from the GENESIS staff. Most of these books can be found in the Elkhart Memorial library. Just ask Mrs. Shook or Mrs. Gay to help you find them! 

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Daniela Morales

Junior Mariem Boussaha explained about Kristin Hannah's "The Nightingale" that "This book is about two sisters who have different views on what to do when Germany invades France and war is rumored to start. This book gives point of views on war and what some are prepared to do for their country."