Why do people like to read? If you’re not a bookworm, you may find the way some people like to read confusing, even foreign. After all, reading isn’t nearly as exciting as watching a movie, right? It’s a boring, regular activity, right?

Even if you’re a reader, you might still wonder why people love to read. Or, when people ask you “Why do you like to read?”, you may not know how to answer…because on the surface, you’re really just staring at a bunch of marks on a page…and honestly, it doesn’t sound too exciting or fun…

But there are many good reasons why people love to read. From the entertainment value of reading to the scientific benefits of reading, here’s everything you need to know to finally understand why people love to read!

1. Reading allows you to escape reality
   One of the most popular reasons people like to read is that it allows them to escape reality. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed with the world around you, or with everything you have to do or think about at work or in your daily life, reading can be a great way to escape it all.

Of course, there can be healthy and unhealthy ways to use reading as an escape from reality. You cannot spend your whole life on books! But if you need a break from the stressors in your life, reading can be a great escape for you.

2. Reading immerses you in another world
   Another reason people love reading is that it allows them to step out of themselves and immerse themselves in another world. When you’re reading, you can quickly immerse yourself in the world of the book (assuming it’s a good book!). This could be a fantasy world, or it could just be the real world described in the book. But no matter what, the story draws you in, takes you inside what’s going on, and makes you part of the world for a while.
3. Reading helps you experience other times, places, and events
   Reading is also exciting because it helps you experience other times, places, and events that you might not normally have the opportunity to experience. If you love to travel but don’t get the chance often, then reading can take you where you want to go! Ever wonder what it would be like to live through your favorite moments in history? Reading might get you there too!

Although what we can experience in our lives is limited, books can take us anywhere and do whatever we want. This is incredible!

4. Reading offers the joy of a good story
   For readers who love the suspense of watching a good plot unfold, the joy of a good story is itself a reason to read. The drama of a good story is fun and exciting because you can watch it unfold and experience all the stages of a well-crafted story from beginning to end.
5. Reading can use your imagination
   Reading also improves imagination and creativity, giving us the opportunity to use our imaginations. Movies are exciting and entertaining forms of entertainment while books provide entertainment without the visuals. Non-readers might see this as a drawback, but readers know it can be exciting because you can use your imagination to provide visuals while you read! Since not everything is shown to you exactly like in the movie, you have to provide some appearance of the characters (usually from the basic description) and what their surroundings look like, how they interact/interact with other characters, etc. Books usually lay out a visual framework, but you can have fun using your imagination and filling in the rest!
6. Reading is relaxing
   Another reason many people enjoy reading is that it can be relaxing and help reduce stress. Often, people think that reading can help them escape problems and relax. This is true! By filling your mind with other fascinating things, you’re less likely to focus on anxious thoughts or feelings. It also actually relaxes your body by lowering your heart rate and reducing muscle tension. Therefore, reading can help you relax physically and mentally, which may be a big reason why readers love to read!
7. Reading helps with quiet time
   If you feel that the world is too noisy or busy, reading is a huge help as it helps you enjoy some quiet time! There are many great places to read, but in general, most people find that reading is best done in places that don’t have a lot of noise and distractions. So if you’re looking for an excuse to escape the hustle and bustle of your life, reading can be a useful way to get away from it all.
8. Reading is a sensory experience
   Some readers also genuinely enjoy reading simply because of the sensory experience. This is especially true for hardcore print fans, but you’ll likely find it in e-readers too. Essentially, the experience of holding a book – how it feels in your hand, how it smells, etc. – is a pleasurable experience and makes them fall in love with reading.
9. Reading is good (free) entertainment
   When we start to understandthe benefits of reading, we realize that reading is actually an excellent and cost-effective form of entertainment. Reading can be done anywhere and at any time, and with the advent of electronic books (e-books), it’s easy to carry a whole library with you wherever you go. Additionally, many libraries offer free access to a wide range of books, which is a great way to enjoy reading without spending any money.
10. Reading is good for your brain
    Finally, reading is good for your brain! Studies have shown that reading regularly can improve cognitive function, increase vocabulary, and even reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. So not only is reading enjoyable, but it’s also good for your mental health and well-being in the long run.

In conclusion, people love to read for many reasons – from the escape it provides from reality to the joy of a good story and the benefits it has for our mental health and well-being. Whether you’re a bookworm or not, it’s easy to see why reading is a beloved pastime for so many people.