From the moment we start school, our educators begin teaching us the fundamentals of reading. We learn our alphabet and the unique sounds that each letter makes. Soon, we can read words and full sentences. And before we know it, we’re reading everything from posters to what’s printed on cereal boxes to subtitles on movies.

But why are we really taught to read? Is it to be able to read street signs and directions, study our textbooks and take tests?

It’s true that we were all taught to read to comprehend better and communicate. However, the benefits of reading go far beyond that.

The more we read, the more we understand the world around us. And when we read books, the more we discover life beyond what we already know. Here are more reasons that highlight the importance of reading books.

Books Make Us Better Communicators

Because books improve our vocabulary, our communications skills improve. Reading enhances our language skills and develops fluency, allowing us to express our thoughts and ideas better.

Books Educate Us

Books quench our thirst for knowledge. Through books, we learn about how things work, understand different cultures, and comprehend the history of things. We can learn new languages, how to improve ourselves and even how to build things. The right books are full of useful information that helps us become smarter, sharper, more skilled, and more open to new ideas.

Books Keep Our Brain’s Healthy 

Did you know that when you read books, you’re also exercising your brain? The more you read, the more you stimulate your mind. Mental stimulation keeps the blood flowing to our brains, preventing diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. When we read, our cognitive function and memory improve. The healthier your brain is, the more you are able to focus and develop your analytical skills.

Books Reduce Stress

Whether it’s science fiction, YA, romance novels, or autobiographies, books can help you relieve tension and relax. Books allow us to escape the stress and anxiety of everyday life by allowing us to immerse ourselves in another world or involve us in a topic we find compelling. And because there is a book out there on just about every topic in the world, it’s possible for everyone to find the perfect book that will keep them focused and at ease.

Books Motivate Us

Books have the power to inspire and motivate us with stories of people who have made something of themselves despite the odds. Whether it is the heroics of a fictional character or the real-life accomplishments of someone remarkable from history, books encourage us never to give up, keep moving forward, and stay positive.

Books Stimulate Creativity

The right book can take us on adventures and inspire us to visualize new lands, dimensions, and alternate universes. Through reading, our imagination is ignited, and we open up our minds to new possibilities. Even non-fiction books on science and technology have the power to stir our creativity and stimulate innovative and inventive ideas.