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Tiempo de Mirar
The Art of Mindful Reading: Embracing the Wisdom of Words
The healing power of reading has been renowned since Aristotle; focus, flow and enlightenment can all be discovered through this universal act.
The Art of Mindful Reading embraces the joy of absorbing words on a page, encouraging a state of mind as deeply therapeutic and vital to our wellbeing as breathing.
Bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud asks if reading is our daily nourishment how best should it be consumed? How should you read mindfully? And why will reading mindfully help you to read better?
She explores how reading mindfully can shape the person you are, give you your moral backbone, and teaches empathy with others. Through meditative exercises, engaging anecdote, and expert insight, she reveals the enriching potential of reading for mindfulness.
The Art of Mindful Reading embraces the joy of absorbing words on a page, encouraging a state of mind as deeply therapeutic and vital to our wellbeing as breathing.
Bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud asks if reading is our daily nourishment how best should it be consumed? How should you read mindfully? And why will reading mindfully help you to read better?
She explores how reading mindfully can shape the person you are, give you your moral backbone, and teaches empathy with others. Through meditative exercises, engaging anecdote, and expert insight, she reveals the enriching potential of reading for mindfulness.
144 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2019
56 people are currently reading
3535 people want to read
About the author
Ella Berthoud
8 books90 followersElla Berthoud started reading on a journey from Tehran to London, on the parcel shelf of a Wolsey 1300 when she was five. She spent the next thirteen years reading books in inappropriate places like ski-lifts and trampolines. She studied English Literature at Cambridge University, where she read as many novels as she could at once. She continued on to University of East London where she studied Fine Art, and combined her twin passions of reading and painting by listening to books while creating works of art. She has worked as an artist in residence at Pentonville Prison, Friends School Saffron Walden and Queenswood School.
Ella first started talking about bibliotherapy with Susan Elderkin when they were at Cambridge together. Over the ensuing years they prescribed literature to their friends and family, while Ella worked as an artist and Susan wrote her own novels. In 2007 they developed the idea in conjunction with The School of Life into what it is today, a one to one service taking place in person, or over the phone.
Ella lives in West Sussex with her husband and three daughters.
Ella first started talking about bibliotherapy with Susan Elderkin when they were at Cambridge together. Over the ensuing years they prescribed literature to their friends and family, while Ella worked as an artist and Susan wrote her own novels. In 2007 they developed the idea in conjunction with The School of Life into what it is today, a one to one service taking place in person, or over the phone.
Ella lives in West Sussex with her husband and three daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
June 4, 2019
This is a quirky and original book which looks at reading in a novel (pun absolutely intended) way. I was drawn to this as I suffer from a variety of long-term, incurable illnesses all of which cause chronic pain and reading is a hobby I partake in every day. I read an extensive amount from both the non-fiction and fiction genres and it's true that I primarily pick up a book in order to aid relaxation. That is why The Art of Mindful Reading very much appealed to me, and it didn't disappoint with its engaging descriptive but conversational style of writing, meditative exercises, intriguing anecdotes, and expert insight where the author reveals the enriching potential of reading for mindfulness.
This is a beautiful quality book with text and illustrations that complement each other perfectly and the whole package looks and feels sophisticated and extensively researched. Ella Berthoud is a bibliotherapist prescribing literary cures to readers everywhere, who regularly gives talks on reading ailments and mindful reading at bookstores and festivals across the UK, so it's safe to say that she knows her onions when it comes to this wonderful topic. I loved it so much that I've purchased a hardcopy for my bookshelf and recommend to all readers as something unique and delightful.
Although rather concise in terms of print length at less than 150 pages, it is mighty in terms of its content and heart. Many thanks to Quarto Publishing Group - Leaping Hare Press for an ARC.
This is a beautiful quality book with text and illustrations that complement each other perfectly and the whole package looks and feels sophisticated and extensively researched. Ella Berthoud is a bibliotherapist prescribing literary cures to readers everywhere, who regularly gives talks on reading ailments and mindful reading at bookstores and festivals across the UK, so it's safe to say that she knows her onions when it comes to this wonderful topic. I loved it so much that I've purchased a hardcopy for my bookshelf and recommend to all readers as something unique and delightful.
Although rather concise in terms of print length at less than 150 pages, it is mighty in terms of its content and heart. Many thanks to Quarto Publishing Group - Leaping Hare Press for an ARC.
July 12, 2019
(3.5) Ella Berthoud is one of the bibliotherapists at the School of Life in London and co-author of The Novel Cure. (I wrote about my bibliotherapy session with her in this post.) For her contribution to a Leaping Hare Press series on mindfulness – whose titles range from The Mindful Art of Wild Swimming to Mindfulness and the Journey of Bereavement – she’s thought deeply about how reading can be an active, deliberate practice rather than a time of passive receiving or entertainment. Through handy exercises and quirky tips she encourages readers to take stock of how they read and to become more aware of each word on the page.
To start with, a close reading exercise using a passage from Alice in Wonderland invites you to find out whether you’re an auditory, visual or kinesthetic reader. I learned that I’m a cross between auditory and visual: I hear every word aloud in my head, but I also picture the scenes, usually unfolding in black and white in settings that are familiar to me (my childhood best friend’s home used to be a common backdrop, for instance). The book then discusses ways to incorporate reading into daily life, from breakfast to bedtime and from a favorite chair to the crook of a tree, and how to combine it with other activities. I will certainly be trying out the reading yoga poses!
As I discovered at my bibliotherapy appointment, Ella is passionate about getting people reading in as many different ways as possible. That can include listening to audiobooks, reading aloud with a partner, or reading silently but in company with other people. She also surveys the many ways there are of sharing an enthusiasm for books nowadays, such as Book Crossing, book clubs and Little Free Libraries.
Although she acknowledges the place of e-readers and smartphones, Ella generally describes reading as a tactile experience, and insists on the importance of keeping a print reading journal as well as a ‘Golden Treasury’ of favorite passages, two strategies that will combat the tendency to forget a book as soon as you’ve finished it.
Some of her suggestions of what to do with physical books are beyond the pale for me – such as using a knife to slice a daunting doorstopper into more manageable chunks, or beating up a much-hyped book to “rob [it] of its glamour and gloss, and bring it down from its pedestal to a more humble state, a place where you can read it in comfort” – but there are ideas here to suit every kind of reader. Take a quick break between novels and use this book to think about how you read and in what ways you could improve or intensify the experience.
Favorite passages:
“As a bibliotherapist, I believe that every novel you read shapes the person that you are, speaking to you on a deep, unconscious level, and altering your very nature with the ideas that it shows you.”
“I often find that people imagine reading fiction is a self-indulgent thing to do, and that they ought to be doing something else. Much research has been conducted into the benefits of reading fiction, which deepens your empathy and emotional intelligence, helps with making important life decisions and allows your brain to rest. Research has shown that reading provides as much relaxation as meditation”
Originally published, with images, on my blog, Bookish Beck.
To start with, a close reading exercise using a passage from Alice in Wonderland invites you to find out whether you’re an auditory, visual or kinesthetic reader. I learned that I’m a cross between auditory and visual: I hear every word aloud in my head, but I also picture the scenes, usually unfolding in black and white in settings that are familiar to me (my childhood best friend’s home used to be a common backdrop, for instance). The book then discusses ways to incorporate reading into daily life, from breakfast to bedtime and from a favorite chair to the crook of a tree, and how to combine it with other activities. I will certainly be trying out the reading yoga poses!
As I discovered at my bibliotherapy appointment, Ella is passionate about getting people reading in as many different ways as possible. That can include listening to audiobooks, reading aloud with a partner, or reading silently but in company with other people. She also surveys the many ways there are of sharing an enthusiasm for books nowadays, such as Book Crossing, book clubs and Little Free Libraries.
Although she acknowledges the place of e-readers and smartphones, Ella generally describes reading as a tactile experience, and insists on the importance of keeping a print reading journal as well as a ‘Golden Treasury’ of favorite passages, two strategies that will combat the tendency to forget a book as soon as you’ve finished it.
Some of her suggestions of what to do with physical books are beyond the pale for me – such as using a knife to slice a daunting doorstopper into more manageable chunks, or beating up a much-hyped book to “rob [it] of its glamour and gloss, and bring it down from its pedestal to a more humble state, a place where you can read it in comfort” – but there are ideas here to suit every kind of reader. Take a quick break between novels and use this book to think about how you read and in what ways you could improve or intensify the experience.
Favorite passages:
“As a bibliotherapist, I believe that every novel you read shapes the person that you are, speaking to you on a deep, unconscious level, and altering your very nature with the ideas that it shows you.”
“I often find that people imagine reading fiction is a self-indulgent thing to do, and that they ought to be doing something else. Much research has been conducted into the benefits of reading fiction, which deepens your empathy and emotional intelligence, helps with making important life decisions and allows your brain to rest. Research has shown that reading provides as much relaxation as meditation”
Originally published, with images, on my blog, Bookish Beck.
June 1, 2019
LITERARY TEA
I adore the offerings from Quarto Publishing Group — Leaping Hare Press and this latest perfectly illustrates why. The topic is totally my literary cup of tea, the text and design beautifully done, the concept of reading as a therapeutic, spiritual endeavor appeals deeply.
The author writes:
“What begins as a jumble of marks, black against white, conjures colours, monsters and beasts, emotions, laughter and tears. Eventually the process becomes ... as natural to us a breathing — and just as necessary.... If reading is your daily bread, then how best should it be consumed?”
She answers in language poetic, with attention paid to all aspects of this endeavor besotted by humans since the first written word.
AUDIO, VISUAL, KINESTHETIC?
There are exercises to enhance reading experiences, including determining if you are an audio, visual or kinesthetic reader (I’m an audio who pronounces words silently as I read them) and strategies to follow to enhance your particular enjoyment. (For audios like me, reading aloud is prescribed. How did the author know that I’ve been reading sections of this lovely book to my husband?)
HULA HOOPING
Included are an array of of mindful exercises such as acting out scenes, creating a biblio-nook, keeping a journal, reading while doing yoga or for those with ADHD frenetic activities such hula hooping, reading ‘round a campfire ... or I would add with your Beloved before a roaring private fire or in bed together.
I WANNA BE ...
And oh my stars does the author’s bio read as one I’d love for myself: “Ella Berthoud is a bibliotherapist prescribing literary cures to readers everywhere, who regularly gives talks on reading ailments and mindful reading at bookstores and festivals across the UK. She lives with her family in West Sussex, England and likes to hula-hoop as she reads.”
5 STARS AREN’T ENOUGH!
There is so much goodness in this small volume (144 pages) that I would give it infinite stars if I could. But I can only do 5 so 5 it is, along with my highest marks!
GRATITUDE
Thanks to Ella Berthoud, Quarto Publishing Group — Leaping Hare Press and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine. Pub Date 04 Jun 2019. #TheArtOfMindfulReading #NetGalley
I adore the offerings from Quarto Publishing Group — Leaping Hare Press and this latest perfectly illustrates why. The topic is totally my literary cup of tea, the text and design beautifully done, the concept of reading as a therapeutic, spiritual endeavor appeals deeply.
The author writes:
“What begins as a jumble of marks, black against white, conjures colours, monsters and beasts, emotions, laughter and tears. Eventually the process becomes ... as natural to us a breathing — and just as necessary.... If reading is your daily bread, then how best should it be consumed?”
She answers in language poetic, with attention paid to all aspects of this endeavor besotted by humans since the first written word.
AUDIO, VISUAL, KINESTHETIC?
There are exercises to enhance reading experiences, including determining if you are an audio, visual or kinesthetic reader (I’m an audio who pronounces words silently as I read them) and strategies to follow to enhance your particular enjoyment. (For audios like me, reading aloud is prescribed. How did the author know that I’ve been reading sections of this lovely book to my husband?)
HULA HOOPING
Included are an array of of mindful exercises such as acting out scenes, creating a biblio-nook, keeping a journal, reading while doing yoga or for those with ADHD frenetic activities such hula hooping, reading ‘round a campfire ... or I would add with your Beloved before a roaring private fire or in bed together.
I WANNA BE ...
And oh my stars does the author’s bio read as one I’d love for myself: “Ella Berthoud is a bibliotherapist prescribing literary cures to readers everywhere, who regularly gives talks on reading ailments and mindful reading at bookstores and festivals across the UK. She lives with her family in West Sussex, England and likes to hula-hoop as she reads.”
5 STARS AREN’T ENOUGH!
There is so much goodness in this small volume (144 pages) that I would give it infinite stars if I could. But I can only do 5 so 5 it is, along with my highest marks!
GRATITUDE
Thanks to Ella Berthoud, Quarto Publishing Group — Leaping Hare Press and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine. Pub Date 04 Jun 2019. #TheArtOfMindfulReading #NetGalley
June 25, 2019
A beautifully presented book with lots of insights for all levels of readers. I consider myself an advanced and “active” reader, and many of the suggestions in the book were things that I already bring to my reading, however, I found other bits quite profound. I took quite a few notes. A beautiful book, it will be given a special space on my shelves.
January 14, 2025
In recent years, I've found myself reflecting on the irony of contemporary reading habits, particularly among women. My recent experience with "The Art of Mindful Reading" left me somewhat underwhelmed; the book lacked the profound insights I had hoped for. This has only intensified my observation that many people—especially women—now read primarily for aesthetics or social relevance rather than for genuine enrichment.
Today, it seems that reading has transformed into a trendy activity, valued less for its intellectual depth and more for the "vibe" it provides. Many women gravitate towards popular genres such as romance, often driven by a desire to fit in and engage with friends on social media. This cultural phenomenon leads to a proliferation of low-grade books that lack literary merit yet are heavily hyped. Instead of diving into works rich in meaning and substance, readers often settle for material that merely serves as a backdrop for social interactions.
The rise of endlessly available romance novels—particularly those saturated with smut—serves as a poignant example of this shift. While I understand the appeal of escapism, I argue that these books often provide nothing more than a canvas for creating one's own fantasies. In a sense, they serve as a new form of pornography for women, offering addictive narratives that prioritize physical attraction over emotional connection.
This brings me to a critical question: Why are we limiting ourselves? If you have the privilege of literacy, it should be leveraged as a powerful tool for personal growth and exploration. Instead of consuming a monotonous diet of romance or thrillers, I urge readers to broaden their horizons and embrace a variety of genres. Why settle for "expired salad" when there is a feast of rich literature waiting to be explored?
Let’s not forget the privilege of reading, my friends. In a world where some still can’t access books, we have the audacity to treat literature like trendy wallpaper. Instead of glancing at the cover for the perfect Instagram shot, how about diving into a book that’ll offer more than just superficial drama? Imagine starting a reading revolution, where we devour books that grant us actual knowledge instead of just feeding our obsession for “likes” and validation.
So, dear literary trendsetters, embrace the chaos of reading, but remember: there’s a vast ocean of genres out there—don’t drown in the shallow end of the kiddie pool! Being a woman of choice means straying from the beaten path of predictable plots and diving headfirst into books that expand your mind and maybe even your soul.
In conclusion, while we’re busy taking selfies with our romance novels (with the obligatory lattes on the side), let’s make sure there’s a little literary substance to go along with those aesthetic vibes. Because, at the end of the day, wouldn’t it be nice if we could all raise our literary glasses and toast to a world where reading doesn’t just look good on social media but also makes us a little wiser—preferably with a side of sarcasm?
Today, it seems that reading has transformed into a trendy activity, valued less for its intellectual depth and more for the "vibe" it provides. Many women gravitate towards popular genres such as romance, often driven by a desire to fit in and engage with friends on social media. This cultural phenomenon leads to a proliferation of low-grade books that lack literary merit yet are heavily hyped. Instead of diving into works rich in meaning and substance, readers often settle for material that merely serves as a backdrop for social interactions.
The rise of endlessly available romance novels—particularly those saturated with smut—serves as a poignant example of this shift. While I understand the appeal of escapism, I argue that these books often provide nothing more than a canvas for creating one's own fantasies. In a sense, they serve as a new form of pornography for women, offering addictive narratives that prioritize physical attraction over emotional connection.
This brings me to a critical question: Why are we limiting ourselves? If you have the privilege of literacy, it should be leveraged as a powerful tool for personal growth and exploration. Instead of consuming a monotonous diet of romance or thrillers, I urge readers to broaden their horizons and embrace a variety of genres. Why settle for "expired salad" when there is a feast of rich literature waiting to be explored?
Let’s not forget the privilege of reading, my friends. In a world where some still can’t access books, we have the audacity to treat literature like trendy wallpaper. Instead of glancing at the cover for the perfect Instagram shot, how about diving into a book that’ll offer more than just superficial drama? Imagine starting a reading revolution, where we devour books that grant us actual knowledge instead of just feeding our obsession for “likes” and validation.
So, dear literary trendsetters, embrace the chaos of reading, but remember: there’s a vast ocean of genres out there—don’t drown in the shallow end of the kiddie pool! Being a woman of choice means straying from the beaten path of predictable plots and diving headfirst into books that expand your mind and maybe even your soul.
In conclusion, while we’re busy taking selfies with our romance novels (with the obligatory lattes on the side), let’s make sure there’s a little literary substance to go along with those aesthetic vibes. Because, at the end of the day, wouldn’t it be nice if we could all raise our literary glasses and toast to a world where reading doesn’t just look good on social media but also makes us a little wiser—preferably with a side of sarcasm?
June 3, 2019
A book about reading that bring the focus on how you read, kind of thinking/meditating about your internal reading process. Not so sure what was the purpose of this book, for me I saw it has a book for new reader who want to read or read more and are not so sure where to start or what they like, to discover themselves as reader I guess... For me it was pointless, I obviously already read way too much and know myself well as a reader. Original work and way to go into the reading world, but not sure it will touch a vast public!
April 11, 2021
How do I fix ME to be a better, more discerning and mindful, reader who can turn everything off and read with full concentration...and remember what I read? I want to get into the stories that I read, like I did back in my high school days, but I can’t. Every single little thing distracts me and breaks my concentration.
First, according to this author, I have to determine what kind of reader I am. Naturally, and of course, I don’t fit into one single category. I am both a Visual Reader and a Kinaesthetic Reader, but, apparently, I'm not an Auditory Reader. As a Visual Reader, I read the words aloud in my head. If the book is from a movie, then I read in the main characters voice, and I see him or her acting out all the parts. Example? I gave “Olive Kitteridge” by Elizabeth Strout a 4-star even though it was a slow book about nothing. And even though I haven’t seen the mini-series on HBO, I know that Frances McDormand, who is one of my favorite actresses, plays the part of Olive, so I read in her voice and saw her in the book the whole time. I am a Kinaesthetic Reader when I read how-to or reference type books. I highlight, underline, and make notations all over the book. I’m totally involved with the book.
I am willing to try some new reading styles suggested in the book to see if I have other “talents”, like try reading while walking on the ARC Trainer. Or maybe try an audio book on an iPod while walking ALONE...I haven’t tried that yet. Getting my exercises in by doing a variety of yoga poses for 5 or 10 minutes a pop while reading. But, I will probably find I can’t do those things because I’m more of a Visual Reader...we’ll see.
----------
The following tips I found in Chapter 5 sound more like something I need to incorporate into my readings:
1. Write down a "Six-Word Memoir" about each book I read to grasp the “to-the-point” meaning of what the book was about. This is a good exercise for me because I am extremely long winded with my reviews. It could be a phrase or simply six words, not connected to each other in any way, that represents the story.
2. Combine a “personal/private” reading journal with a diary on paper, in a notebook, not on a screen. [Post only the short general reviews to Goodreads. Nobody has all day to read reviews.] This will become sort of your books read and review, as well as your personal diary. (p. 98-99)
- Title of book
- Author
- Date of publication and number of pages
- Date you finished
- Place you read the book & happenings around you while reading
- Thoughts on the book - narrator, narrator voice, plot, characters, any particular resonance with you as a reader
- Extra info about the author that might be interesting to know regarding the book
- Links to other books it reminds you of
- Reflections on the book
- Was it paperback, hardback, eBook read from phone or Kindle?
- If hard copy, how did the book feel, smell? Was the cover, the title appealing?
3. Create a cozy, quiet reading corner where I can retreat and hopefully fully use my brain and concentrate on the book of the moment WITHOUT INTERRUPTIONS.
4. Expand your vocabulary. When you come across words you don't know, stop. Look the word up in a dictionary. Write it down in your reading journal. Try to use that word throughout your day. I do this with history books. It really does make the books more meaningful.
Your journal for book readings should be mixed with memories of what was happening in your life at the time, or even if it brought back memories about something that has happened in your past. This will make your journaling worthwhile.
When writing about the book, think mindfully about the book. Write about the feelings you experienced while reading the book. Sadness, joy, irritation with author, pity, compassion, nostalgic, or did you feel nothing at all for the characters?
The other solutions for mindful reading offered up in this book seem a bit out there. I’m probably not going to go around town, walking and reading a book at the same time. She claims she meets the most interesting people that way. Really? I kind of doubt that. I probably won’t climb into one of my huge live oak trees in the front yard with a pillow and blanket and snacks. The author even says to STOP reading. Focus on the leaves, the bark, the smell of the tree, allow your energy to enter the tree and the trees energy to enter into you. My neighbors driving by would think I’m plum crazy. I have tried reading out loud for a sentence or two while I’m here alone at the house, but just the act of talking too much wears me out. I probably will never re-read a book that I’ve already read. Life is just too short. I probably won’t throw a book in the dirt and get the pages dirty and rub grass on the cover. I find a lot of her ideas are just way out there, if you know what I mean.
The bottom line is spend more time with your book, and worry less about the number of books you read each year.
----------
First, according to this author, I have to determine what kind of reader I am. Naturally, and of course, I don’t fit into one single category. I am both a Visual Reader and a Kinaesthetic Reader, but, apparently, I'm not an Auditory Reader. As a Visual Reader, I read the words aloud in my head. If the book is from a movie, then I read in the main characters voice, and I see him or her acting out all the parts. Example? I gave “Olive Kitteridge” by Elizabeth Strout a 4-star even though it was a slow book about nothing. And even though I haven’t seen the mini-series on HBO, I know that Frances McDormand, who is one of my favorite actresses, plays the part of Olive, so I read in her voice and saw her in the book the whole time. I am a Kinaesthetic Reader when I read how-to or reference type books. I highlight, underline, and make notations all over the book. I’m totally involved with the book.
I am willing to try some new reading styles suggested in the book to see if I have other “talents”, like try reading while walking on the ARC Trainer. Or maybe try an audio book on an iPod while walking ALONE...I haven’t tried that yet. Getting my exercises in by doing a variety of yoga poses for 5 or 10 minutes a pop while reading. But, I will probably find I can’t do those things because I’m more of a Visual Reader...we’ll see.
----------
The following tips I found in Chapter 5 sound more like something I need to incorporate into my readings:
1. Write down a "Six-Word Memoir" about each book I read to grasp the “to-the-point” meaning of what the book was about. This is a good exercise for me because I am extremely long winded with my reviews. It could be a phrase or simply six words, not connected to each other in any way, that represents the story.
2. Combine a “personal/private” reading journal with a diary on paper, in a notebook, not on a screen. [Post only the short general reviews to Goodreads. Nobody has all day to read reviews.] This will become sort of your books read and review, as well as your personal diary. (p. 98-99)
- Title of book
- Author
- Date of publication and number of pages
- Date you finished
- Place you read the book & happenings around you while reading
- Thoughts on the book - narrator, narrator voice, plot, characters, any particular resonance with you as a reader
- Extra info about the author that might be interesting to know regarding the book
- Links to other books it reminds you of
- Reflections on the book
- Was it paperback, hardback, eBook read from phone or Kindle?
- If hard copy, how did the book feel, smell? Was the cover, the title appealing?
3. Create a cozy, quiet reading corner where I can retreat and hopefully fully use my brain and concentrate on the book of the moment WITHOUT INTERRUPTIONS.
4. Expand your vocabulary. When you come across words you don't know, stop. Look the word up in a dictionary. Write it down in your reading journal. Try to use that word throughout your day. I do this with history books. It really does make the books more meaningful.
Your journal for book readings should be mixed with memories of what was happening in your life at the time, or even if it brought back memories about something that has happened in your past. This will make your journaling worthwhile.
When writing about the book, think mindfully about the book. Write about the feelings you experienced while reading the book. Sadness, joy, irritation with author, pity, compassion, nostalgic, or did you feel nothing at all for the characters?
The other solutions for mindful reading offered up in this book seem a bit out there. I’m probably not going to go around town, walking and reading a book at the same time. She claims she meets the most interesting people that way. Really? I kind of doubt that. I probably won’t climb into one of my huge live oak trees in the front yard with a pillow and blanket and snacks. The author even says to STOP reading. Focus on the leaves, the bark, the smell of the tree, allow your energy to enter the tree and the trees energy to enter into you. My neighbors driving by would think I’m plum crazy. I have tried reading out loud for a sentence or two while I’m here alone at the house, but just the act of talking too much wears me out. I probably will never re-read a book that I’ve already read. Life is just too short. I probably won’t throw a book in the dirt and get the pages dirty and rub grass on the cover. I find a lot of her ideas are just way out there, if you know what I mean.
The bottom line is spend more time with your book, and worry less about the number of books you read each year.
----------
June 11, 2019
The Art of Mindful Reading is a beautiful book that celebrates readers.
When reading, do you picture every scene in your head? You are a visual reader. If you hear the words you are reading silently in your head, you are a dynamic reader. If you walk, highlight passages, or fidget when reading, you are a kinesthetic reader. The author includes tips to increase the pleasure of reading for every reading type.
Who knew that there was a profession called bibliotherapist, which the author of Art of Mindful Reading calls herself? The author encourages mindfulness, or living every moment fully, while reading. Though this is a short book, there are many creative ideas to increase your reading pleasure. For example, reading can be childlike by moving reading to unusual places perhaps in a specially created nook either inside or out of your house. I don’t think this book will make your Instagram-addicted daughter want to read books but it is a great gift for someone who already enjoys reading. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars!
Thanks to Leaping Hare Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
When reading, do you picture every scene in your head? You are a visual reader. If you hear the words you are reading silently in your head, you are a dynamic reader. If you walk, highlight passages, or fidget when reading, you are a kinesthetic reader. The author includes tips to increase the pleasure of reading for every reading type.
Who knew that there was a profession called bibliotherapist, which the author of Art of Mindful Reading calls herself? The author encourages mindfulness, or living every moment fully, while reading. Though this is a short book, there are many creative ideas to increase your reading pleasure. For example, reading can be childlike by moving reading to unusual places perhaps in a specially created nook either inside or out of your house. I don’t think this book will make your Instagram-addicted daughter want to read books but it is a great gift for someone who already enjoys reading. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars!
Thanks to Leaping Hare Press and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 24, 2020
This should've been 4 blog posts
January 4, 2022
Yo me pregunto, ¿a qué viene esta obsesión con leer en barcos?
January 24, 2025
Sin saber muy bien cómo he llegado a este libro.
Escrito por una autora autodenominada recetadora de libros.
Tiene la convicción de que un libro determinado, en un momento determinado para la persona adecuada puede tener un efecto sanador.
Da una serie de pautas para vivir más conscientemente la experiencia de la lectura.
A mí personalmente me ha parecido muy interesante para las personas que amamos los libros y quizá para los que no tanto.
Escrito por una autora autodenominada recetadora de libros.
Tiene la convicción de que un libro determinado, en un momento determinado para la persona adecuada puede tener un efecto sanador.
Da una serie de pautas para vivir más conscientemente la experiencia de la lectura.
A mí personalmente me ha parecido muy interesante para las personas que amamos los libros y quizá para los que no tanto.
July 16, 2019
Skip this and read The Novel Cure: From Abandonment to Zestlessness: 751 Books to Cure What Ails You instead.
December 15, 2020
This book is one that could have bothered me, given my general low opinion of works that support the spread of Buddhism. That said, the author, although she definitely deals with mindfulness and promotes doing yoga while reading, which is something one would expect of a New Age book, mostly manages to avoid overt calls for the practice of heathen spirituality while addressing the subject of how one is to be a thoughtful reader, aware that the books we read have an influence on us for good or for ill, as the case may be. The author's goal is to encourage readers to read and reflect upon what is good literature, literature that engages our mind and encourages our spirit and that provides a proper example of how we should behave. This is an uplifting sort of reading that is easy to encourage and endorse, whatever perspective and worldview one brings to the task of reading. to be sure, this book has a lot to say about reading and the context of reading, and it is not likely that the reader will always appreciate everything that the author has to say, but all the same there is also the ability for the reader to pick and choose what elements of this book might be worth a try, which makes it a lot easier to appreciate.
This book is a relatively short one at just under 150 pages, and it is divided into several chapters that have an interesting demonstration of interests. The book begins with an introduction and then a discussion of how it is that we can lose ourselves while reading a book (1). The author, of course, views this as a very good thing, as losing oneself is an important aspect of Buddhist thinking. After that the author reflects on various ways of reading, including the timing of reading and the sorts of material one is to read, including a special fondness for haiku (2). After that the author encourages the reader to read like a child, with an open mind for insight (3). This is followed by discussions on how one can share the joy of reading, whether that means to read with other people or to share one's books with other people, including in the joy of decluttering, something which a lot of books focus on (4). After this the author discusses the paradox of finding oneself in books (5) as well as putting down the book (6), since books are meant to be read and digested but eventually put down, and then there are suggestions for further reading, many of which I have, perhaps unsurprisingly, already read [1], as well as an index and acknowledgements.
What does it mean to read in a mindful fashion? This can be a complicated task. For one, it involves being a thoughtful and intentional person when it comes to reading in the first place. Then there is the matter of reading with other people with whom we can discuss what we read with, and read while doing other activities that might put us in the mood to read better. Humorously enough, the author did not include a discussion of reading in the bathroom, which is the classic and obvious means of reading while doing something else and remaining particularly productive while doing an activity that is not glamorous but which needs to be done fairly often. The author also cares a lot, as might be expected, about the social and moral contexts of reading, including the issue of decluttering and creating a street library so as to bring the joy of reading to other people rather than hoarding books and knowledge as if it was something that needed to be scarce to be of benefit rather than to be spread as far and wide as possible.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2019...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
This book is a relatively short one at just under 150 pages, and it is divided into several chapters that have an interesting demonstration of interests. The book begins with an introduction and then a discussion of how it is that we can lose ourselves while reading a book (1). The author, of course, views this as a very good thing, as losing oneself is an important aspect of Buddhist thinking. After that the author reflects on various ways of reading, including the timing of reading and the sorts of material one is to read, including a special fondness for haiku (2). After that the author encourages the reader to read like a child, with an open mind for insight (3). This is followed by discussions on how one can share the joy of reading, whether that means to read with other people or to share one's books with other people, including in the joy of decluttering, something which a lot of books focus on (4). After this the author discusses the paradox of finding oneself in books (5) as well as putting down the book (6), since books are meant to be read and digested but eventually put down, and then there are suggestions for further reading, many of which I have, perhaps unsurprisingly, already read [1], as well as an index and acknowledgements.
What does it mean to read in a mindful fashion? This can be a complicated task. For one, it involves being a thoughtful and intentional person when it comes to reading in the first place. Then there is the matter of reading with other people with whom we can discuss what we read with, and read while doing other activities that might put us in the mood to read better. Humorously enough, the author did not include a discussion of reading in the bathroom, which is the classic and obvious means of reading while doing something else and remaining particularly productive while doing an activity that is not glamorous but which needs to be done fairly often. The author also cares a lot, as might be expected, about the social and moral contexts of reading, including the issue of decluttering and creating a street library so as to bring the joy of reading to other people rather than hoarding books and knowledge as if it was something that needed to be scarce to be of benefit rather than to be spread as far and wide as possible.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2019...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
January 31, 2021
I thought that this book looked interesting, but I ended up heavily skimming it. This seems to go against the author's point about mindful reading, of course, but I was mindful of my time and my stacks of better books to read, and got through this quickly to glean what I could amid the fluff and nonsense.
The author lost me near the very beginning, when she said that people who don't read are raised by wolves, and she also made lots of extremely ridiculous suggestions, such as claiming that the peak of mindfulness can be achieved by reading while riding a unicycle. I kid you not! She also recommends that if you feel overwhelmed to approach a book surrounded by awards or tremendous hype, then you should throw the book into a bush, smear it with dirt, and then settle down to read it when it no longer looks so impressive. Um... Okay.
Some of the suggestions in this book are helpful, like the ones about how to determine which books to keep and which to pass on, or how to keep a reading journal or reading scrapbook. However, many of the mindful reading practices in this book are frivolous or strange, and the text blocks suggesting these practices regularly interrupt the author's writing mid-stream. This book's formatting is not mindful at all, and it also has unreasonably small text at times. Oh! And she also encourages people to make the most of their time by reading while walking in the city, with no sense of the personal safety risk that this entails.
The author also presumes that her readers have achieved a financial status where they can rent out a boat to read on the water, or can deliberately plan a night where they stay up until the wee hours reading and then call in sick to work the next day. One can excuse the first suggestion as being one that someone can take or leave based on their discretionary income and proximity to water, but the latter is unethical and insensitive. Why would someone who claims to be a therapist encourage someone to deliberately schedule a time when they lie to their employer and don't show up to work? Even if someone has the income and job security to do this, it is unethical and extremely disrespectful to their boss, coworkers, and clients.
This book wasn't all terrible. I'm giving it two stars instead of one, because there are plenty of reflections and practical ideas in this book that are reasonable and fine, and I'm simply highlighting the worst and most ridiculous ones here. Still, I was extremely unimpressed with this book, and would not recommend it to anyone.
The author lost me near the very beginning, when she said that people who don't read are raised by wolves, and she also made lots of extremely ridiculous suggestions, such as claiming that the peak of mindfulness can be achieved by reading while riding a unicycle. I kid you not! She also recommends that if you feel overwhelmed to approach a book surrounded by awards or tremendous hype, then you should throw the book into a bush, smear it with dirt, and then settle down to read it when it no longer looks so impressive. Um... Okay.
Some of the suggestions in this book are helpful, like the ones about how to determine which books to keep and which to pass on, or how to keep a reading journal or reading scrapbook. However, many of the mindful reading practices in this book are frivolous or strange, and the text blocks suggesting these practices regularly interrupt the author's writing mid-stream. This book's formatting is not mindful at all, and it also has unreasonably small text at times. Oh! And she also encourages people to make the most of their time by reading while walking in the city, with no sense of the personal safety risk that this entails.
The author also presumes that her readers have achieved a financial status where they can rent out a boat to read on the water, or can deliberately plan a night where they stay up until the wee hours reading and then call in sick to work the next day. One can excuse the first suggestion as being one that someone can take or leave based on their discretionary income and proximity to water, but the latter is unethical and insensitive. Why would someone who claims to be a therapist encourage someone to deliberately schedule a time when they lie to their employer and don't show up to work? Even if someone has the income and job security to do this, it is unethical and extremely disrespectful to their boss, coworkers, and clients.
This book wasn't all terrible. I'm giving it two stars instead of one, because there are plenty of reflections and practical ideas in this book that are reasonable and fine, and I'm simply highlighting the worst and most ridiculous ones here. Still, I was extremely unimpressed with this book, and would not recommend it to anyone.
August 5, 2019
Summary: Sometimes this was more about living in the moment than reading thoughtfully, but it also included some helpful and fun ideas.
This book was a bit of a jumble. There were parts that were focused on the sort of mindful reading I want to do. They included suggestions like reading a page really focusing on words, then sentences, then paragraphs; and re-reading to get more out of a book. Other parts were focused on a sort of mindfulness that is more about being present in the moment. These sections include advice like thinking about the way the book you're reading is produced. There were also suggestions for different ways to read (in yoga poses! outside! under the covers!); different ways to share books with others; and different ways to reflect on your reading.
While the author occasionally wrote as though everyone comes from a reading family, she also seemed to be making an effort to acknowledge the privileges of her background. Likewise, she seemed to be trying her best to recognize that people have different reading styles. She was definitely not a reading snob. The books she referenced included classics, but also popular fiction and nonfiction. She seemed to slightly prefer hard copies of books, but also recognized the value of ebooks and audiobooks.
Initially I found the writing repetitive, with the author often giving a brief overview followed by more detail on topics that I didn't think needed explanations. However, I actually really enjoyed this as I got into the book. It made for a slow, peaceful, meditative read. I liked that it forced me to think more about topics that I otherwise might have skimmed over. I think my favorite takeaway was actually the reading yoga poses, which I'm definitely saving for the next read-a-thon! But some of the advice I mentioned above about how to read mindfully seems really helpful too.This review was originally posted on Doing Dewey
This book was a bit of a jumble. There were parts that were focused on the sort of mindful reading I want to do. They included suggestions like reading a page really focusing on words, then sentences, then paragraphs; and re-reading to get more out of a book. Other parts were focused on a sort of mindfulness that is more about being present in the moment. These sections include advice like thinking about the way the book you're reading is produced. There were also suggestions for different ways to read (in yoga poses! outside! under the covers!); different ways to share books with others; and different ways to reflect on your reading.
While the author occasionally wrote as though everyone comes from a reading family, she also seemed to be making an effort to acknowledge the privileges of her background. Likewise, she seemed to be trying her best to recognize that people have different reading styles. She was definitely not a reading snob. The books she referenced included classics, but also popular fiction and nonfiction. She seemed to slightly prefer hard copies of books, but also recognized the value of ebooks and audiobooks.
Initially I found the writing repetitive, with the author often giving a brief overview followed by more detail on topics that I didn't think needed explanations. However, I actually really enjoyed this as I got into the book. It made for a slow, peaceful, meditative read. I liked that it forced me to think more about topics that I otherwise might have skimmed over. I think my favorite takeaway was actually the reading yoga poses, which I'm definitely saving for the next read-a-thon! But some of the advice I mentioned above about how to read mindfully seems really helpful too.This review was originally posted on Doing Dewey
July 6, 2019
This is a neat concept, but it could have been better as an article rather than a book. Most of the ideas are repetitive or unnecessary. I ended up skim-reading some parts, which was admittedly unmindful of me.
September 9, 2023
Un llibre breu de com gaudir de la lectura amb conciencia plena. En general no descobreix res de nou si ja t'agrada llegir, però comparteix algunes idees i activitats que poden ser interessants per posar en pràctica i emportar-te un record més profund de la lectura.
February 12, 2020
Explains what mindful reading is and gives examples and exercises of what you can do to get more from your reading.
I enjoyed this book. It is short but there is so much there to think about. I also loved the feel of the pages. They are so smooth. I am finding reading nooks for the different places I read. This is a keeper that I will refer to throughout the years.
I enjoyed this book. It is short but there is so much there to think about. I also loved the feel of the pages. They are so smooth. I am finding reading nooks for the different places I read. This is a keeper that I will refer to throughout the years.
November 2, 2020
Well-written, but I don't think I'm the target audience as I didn't really get anything out of it. I think I was expecting a different book than what this actually is.
Parts of this book were also hilarious, which I don't think was the intention. Such as the author's suggestion to try reading on a unicycle. Or when she's describing how to bring down a highly rated book from its pedestal by first rubbing grass on the cover, then tossing it in a bush, and then massaging earth into the pages. It was times like this when I felt as though I was reading a parody of a book on reading.
While I'm sure this book will be helpful and interesting to some readers, I personally found it neither.
Parts of this book were also hilarious, which I don't think was the intention. Such as the author's suggestion to try reading on a unicycle. Or when she's describing how to bring down a highly rated book from its pedestal by first rubbing grass on the cover, then tossing it in a bush, and then massaging earth into the pages. It was times like this when I felt as though I was reading a parody of a book on reading.
While I'm sure this book will be helpful and interesting to some readers, I personally found it neither.
June 8, 2019
Bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud shows why reading is important for the brain, for personal health and what makes it a mindful experience.
To be honest, I already practice a lot of the things that were mentioned in the book, really, a lot of them. But, even I took home a few things that I want to try out, like writing six word memoirs.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who thinks they don't have enough time for reading, reading is boring, reading is a selfish past-time, but also to anyone who is an avid reader. Obviously, even avid readers can still gain something from this book.
To be honest, I already practice a lot of the things that were mentioned in the book, really, a lot of them. But, even I took home a few things that I want to try out, like writing six word memoirs.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who thinks they don't have enough time for reading, reading is boring, reading is a selfish past-time, but also to anyone who is an avid reader. Obviously, even avid readers can still gain something from this book.
September 11, 2019
2-1/2 stars. Too New Agie for my tastes. Climb into a tree to read, lean against the limbs and smell the bark; project your thoughts about the book onto the canopy; place ideas in the tree. Put off by the hype surrounding a book, simple (go buy the book) - rub grass over the cover of the book, put dirt on the edges of the book, that’s robbing the book of its glamour and bringing it down off his pedestal to a place where you can read it. Are you kidding me? What crap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2019
For a small book, this read packs a plethora of advice. I never knew there were so many things you could do with a book — from the way you read, to the manner in which you document what you've read, to the places you can read — and everything in between. An perfect book for your bedside table. Savor a chapter a night and fall asleep with calming thoughts. A list of books mentioned are found in the back. Nice gift for a bibliophile you know!
July 14, 2019
Thank you Quatro - Leaping Hare Press and Netgalley for this ARC.
I really enjoy this range of “Mindful” books and this was no exception.
An enjoyable book helping the reader discover different or new opportunities for reading and how to get more out of their reading life.
I really enjoy this range of “Mindful” books and this was no exception.
An enjoyable book helping the reader discover different or new opportunities for reading and how to get more out of their reading life.
December 31, 2019
I read this on my birthday in the library....one bibliophile reading the work of another. Her main message is in her title. Beautiful book to hold and view too.
December 17, 2019
Love to read a book about books and reading.
September 1, 2021
El libro está escrito por la biblioterapeuta Ella Berthoud, que co-escribió el libro Manual de remedios literarios.
Es que es un libro muy básico con algunos consejos sobre cómo añadir más tiempo de lectura o cómo leer de manera más consciente. Es bastante superficial y repetitivo en algunos de sus consejos, aunque quizás si lo lee alguien que no tiene la costumbre de leer le puedan ser beneficiosos.
Si eres alguien que lee asiduamente desde pequeña, me da la sensación de que todo lo que describe en el libro ya lo haces, en mayor o menor medida (excepto, quizás, alquilar un barco sólo para tener un rato para leer tranquila. Aunque, oye, si lo haces, cuéntame qué tal la experiencia :P)
Es que es un libro muy básico con algunos consejos sobre cómo añadir más tiempo de lectura o cómo leer de manera más consciente. Es bastante superficial y repetitivo en algunos de sus consejos, aunque quizás si lo lee alguien que no tiene la costumbre de leer le puedan ser beneficiosos.
Si eres alguien que lee asiduamente desde pequeña, me da la sensación de que todo lo que describe en el libro ya lo haces, en mayor o menor medida (excepto, quizás, alquilar un barco sólo para tener un rato para leer tranquila. Aunque, oye, si lo haces, cuéntame qué tal la experiencia :P)
July 13, 2021
Reflections and lessons learned:
“Where would we be without writing? It is as essential to our species as clothing”
Many things book related and lots of great hints and tips for getting the most out of reading - hula hooping whilst reading; memory palace; yoga reading positions; the physicality of book typeface, paper quality and smell; binge reading; mood juggling current reads; cutting a book and rubbing it with grass?!; cutting a book up into chunks?!? And still I enjoyed it… great mentions of schemes such as Book Crossing, Book Swap, Little Free Library Movement and the 6 word memoir projects. Also I learned from this that the plural of haiku is… haiku!
“Where would we be without writing? It is as essential to our species as clothing”
Many things book related and lots of great hints and tips for getting the most out of reading - hula hooping whilst reading; memory palace; yoga reading positions; the physicality of book typeface, paper quality and smell; binge reading; mood juggling current reads; cutting a book and rubbing it with grass?!; cutting a book up into chunks?!? And still I enjoyed it… great mentions of schemes such as Book Crossing, Book Swap, Little Free Library Movement and the 6 word memoir projects. Also I learned from this that the plural of haiku is… haiku!
May 27, 2022
I liked some of the suggestions the author made about tuning in when reading your books. Rather than just immediately forgetting what you’ve read, she offers suggestions for retaining what you read - like taking the time to learn your favorite passages by heart and writing a six word memoir for each book. I also love that she is a Bibliotherapist - her job is to recommend books to cure common ills (what a cool job)! This is a quick yet informative read for bibliophiles trying to be more mindful.
June 13, 2024
This was a lovely little book filled with all my favorite things: books, reading, thinking and joy. Ella Berthoud makes a beautiful case for a joyful reading life filled with mindfulness and presence. From when to read, how to read and how to find yourself in the pages of a book, Ella reminds us of the power of taking our time inside the pages so the book can benefit our actual life, too. I have a new hero. =)
September 17, 2019
I have always loved to read and perhaps that is why the first few chapters of this book seemed frivolous. Berthoud stresses reading wherever and whenever you can. She suggests that reading is a special time and that you should: create a reading nook, sit in a tree and read, learn to read while walking, read the moment you wake, read at lunch, form a silent book club...just read. However the second part of the book deals with not just reading but truly enjoying what you are reading. I loved her concept of a 6 word memoir and of creating a Golden Treasury of special books that meant something. I have never heard of a bibliotherapist but am envious of the literary knowledge the position requires.
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