Editorial: In Praise of Reading

In a culture captivated by fleeting trends and ephemeral distractions, the practice of reading—true, intentional reading—faces quiet neglect. Once a central pillar of both education and leisure, it now occupies a quieter space, sustained by a smaller but fervent group of individuals who recognize its power. While some mourn the decline of literacy amidst the rise of algorithm-driven feeds and fragmented attention spans, there is still hope. Reading endures, not as a relic but as an essential practice. The challenge lies in rekindling its relevance and embedding it deeply in the lives of future generations.

It’s easy to blame the shift on the convenience of modern entertainment. Why navigate the intricate prose of James Baldwin when a summary or explainer video can provide a shortcut? Why commit to the slow journey of a novel when the immediate allure of a streaming platform beckons? Yet these alternatives, while useful, cannot replicate the profound engagement that reading fosters. To read deeply is to pause, to think, and to immerse oneself in ideas and perspectives that challenge and transform. It is a practice of resistance against the constant pull of distraction.

For those who dedicate themselves to reading, it is not a passive hobby but a disciplined craft. It requires focus, curiosity, and the willingness to confront complexity. Reading deeply builds empathy, sharpens critical thinking, and invites a richer understanding of the world. While fewer may now engage in this practice, those who do demonstrate its enduring value. The question is not whether reading can survive but how it can flourish anew.

The answer begins in the formative years. Introducing young minds to the wonder of books is the surest way to instill a lifelong love of reading. But this requires more than simply teaching literacy. It demands fostering a genuine sense of curiosity and adventure through stories and ideas. Classrooms should not merely emphasize technical skills but celebrate the transformative experience of literature. Imagine spaces where children explore not just how to read but why, where they see books not as assignments but as doorways to discovery. Outside of schools, parents and caregivers play a crucial role by modeling the joy of reading and making it a shared activity.

The evolution of how we read need not be seen as a threat. Audiobooks, e-readers, and digital platforms offer new ways to engage with literature. Rather than replace traditional reading, these tools expand its accessibility and reach. 

 A global library is now available at our fingertips, connecting readers across boundaries and enabling discussions that would once have been impossible. The challenge is to embrace these advancements without losing sight of the depth that comes from focused, intentional reading.

In my own journey, the importance of reading has become clear not through singular moments but through the steady accumulation of understanding. 

Books have shaped how I think, offering perspectives that expand my view of the world and challenge my assumptions. Each one is a stepping stone in a broader journey of growth, a process that cannot be rushed or substituted. This is the gift I hope to see passed on—not as an obligation but as an opportunity for enrichment.

To those concerned about the future of reading, rest assured: the practice is not lost, but it does require cultivation. This is not a time for resignation but for action. By celebrating reading’s capacity to nourish the mind and soul, we can inspire others to embrace it. By embedding it early in life, we can ensure it remains a vital part of our culture. And by treating it as more than a utility, we affirm its place as an irreplaceable source of understanding and joy.

In a world that often prioritizes immediacy, reading reminds us to slow down. In an age of distraction, it demands focus. And in times of division, it fosters connection. The way forward is clear: to revive reading, we must champion its value and share its transformative power. By doing so, we honor its legacy and ensure its future.