How Do You Read So Much?

Since I’ve started writing this newsletter, people I know often ask me how I manage to read so much, so I decided to compile a list of reasons. It’s not advice, just some things that I think help me read more than average.

I’ve been doing this since I was very young

My mum was a librarian when I was younger, and taught me to read before I went to school. Along with that, my dad is an avid book buyer and hoarder, and neither of my parents ever censored the things I read or discouraged me from reading adult books when I was a child. As a result of all of this, reading has been my main hobby for as long as I can remember, so it feels very natural and normal to me.

I only read for fun and I’m not afraid to admit defeat

The second a book feels like work, I get rid. Reading is enjoyment for me, so I don’t punish myself by forcing through anything that isn’t clicking. Even if it’s critically acclaimed, even if it’s for book clubs. Life is too short! I also don’t believe in cultural snobbery or guilty pleasures. All reading is good reading.

I read everywhere

I always have a book in my handbag, and if I’m travelling, I usually have two or three books a week, as well as my Kindle. I will read on a five minute bus trip, a two hour train or while I’m waiting for any kind of public transport to arrive. I read when I’m out for solo coffees or dinners, or whenever I have a spare moment alone. I read on the sofa, in bed (morning and night), in the bath, and basically anywhere else I can imagine.

It’s my main hobby

This is probably the main one. Everyone has a hobby, and reading is mine. I think you always find time for the big hobby that brings you joy, and that’s different for everyone. I don’t really go to the cinema, I’m not into sports, and my theatre attendance has dropped majorly.

Honestly, I think that reading levels and habits are a very personal thing, and there’s no point comparing yourself to anyone else. I’m sure by literally any other metric, you’re more impressive than I am, although I continue to raise my weights at the gym, which is gratifying. I don’t believe in doing anything that doesn’t bring me total joy and pleasure (except maybe some aspects of work), which explains why I’m still reading voraciously after about thirty years. Here’s to many more!