Crime, Mysteries & Thrillers discussion

How does reading shape your life?

Reading is my life. I love it. I have no other hobbies.

Cannot imagine a day without reading. It is not only the stories but the characters that stay with you forever.

Gives great insight into human nature & people from other cultures

I feel bereft if I have no book to read. Bless all libraries for the service they provide.

Reading is an escape from this crazy world. It takes me to many places and teaches me about different things, cultures, etc. I would never be able to get to in "real life".

I don't recall a time in my life where I did not read. Even when I was in college, I read fiction to escape from the pressures of studying. I guess that is the key. Reading takes me away, whether positive or negative, to somewhere else. I have learned so much from books: recipes and cooking, how to deal with people or situations, visiting far and away countries. I always like talking to my husband about something unusual or evocative from the books I read as he doesn't read (a TV-watcher).

I do have other hobbies but I agree with all these reasons. I grew up in a dysfunctional, abusive household and books were a way of escape and I can't remember a time I didn't read.

Sheri wrote: "I do have other hobbies but I agree with all these reasons. I grew up in a dysfunctional, abusive household and books were a way of escape, and I can't remember a time I didn't read."

I agree, Sheri. I also grew up in an abusive household, and reading was the way I could cope with life.