When was the last time you picked up a book for pleasure? Was seventh grade the last time you read a romance or mystery novel? Instead of scrolling on Instagram Reels, consider opening up a book to decrease your stress levels and increase your retention of knowledge.
In the United States 14% of students reported reading for fun almost every day in 2023, according to the National Association of Educational Progress (NAEP). This was 3% lower than reading habits in 2020, 13% lower than 2012 and 21% lower than 1984.
The percentage of teenage readers is declining as the popularity of digital entertainment rises. Library Leader Frankie Reichman ‘24 said, “On your phone, you get an instant hit of dopamine, so it’s much easier to pick up than a book.”
“We’re able to go online and be entertained and distracted by something that’s not reading,” said Director of Library Services Sarah Levin.
Many students miss reading for fun. Jesse Kaplan-Maier ‘27 said, “I miss the feeling when I’m bored or don’t know what to do. Instead of reaching for my phone, I want to continue with a story.”
Finding time to read between school, sports or work can be challenging. Kavi Greenwood ‘26 said, “Whenever I have a break, [I] like to restart a series … but then I just realize I don’t have time to read for an hour.”
On top of school work, additional reading can feel like another assignment. “I know when I was in high school, I loved reading, but it was hard to fit it in. There’s a lot of homework, which is normal. [So I had to] make time to read,” said Levin.
Assigned readings for school have taken away the enjoyment of books for some students. “As I’ve been picking up more and more books for school, reading has felt more like a task,” said Kaplan-Maier.
While additional reading can be difficult to balance with other activities and obligations, books are highly beneficial for teenagers to focus and de-stress, according to a study from The Journal of American College Health. “What you get out of reading a book is the ability to focus. It’s something you have to practice,” said Levin.
In The Power of Reading, an article from The Michigan Daily, Journalist Mackenzie Kilano said, “Recreational reading decreases psychological distress and is associated with decreased anxiety and depressive symptoms.”
A study headed by Dr. Josie Billington at the University of Liverpool’s Centre for Research into Reading, Literature and Society (CRILS) found that reading improved subjects’ confidence, stress level and motivation. Billington said, “Books can help us to enjoy the little things in life and be happier in ourselves.”
“Reading allows me to understand other people. It’s a useful tool to help me flex my empathy muscles,” said Levin.
Challenging your thinking with a book is important, but finding joy in reading is the top priority. “Read if that’s what brings you happiness,” said Library Leader Clementine Nelson ‘24. “If you want to re-read Harry Potter or you want to read some random Danish literature, then just do that.”
