I read a book about writing a long time ago that recommended that you read for at least an hour everyday to improve your writing. How many authors are really doing that? I freely admit that I’ve let my reading fall by the wayside in the past couple years.
When I was a kid and even a teenager I read all the time. I had my favorite authors, but I wasn’t afraid to try something new either. The library was one of my favorite places. I loved wondering through the stacks and randomly pulling out books. I’d look at the cover–covers are extremely important–and decide whether or not I wanted to read the blurb on the back. If it sounded interesting, I took the book home.
I discovered some of my favorite authors that way. I remember being in the Atlantic City Public Library and pulling Dance, Dance, Dance by Haruki Murakami from the shelves. The cover was bright with outlines of people dancing on it. That’s all I needed to see before deciding to read the book.
I also read some terrible books. There were books that I struggled to finish and books that were so bad I just couldn’t finish. All these experiences helped me discover what I do and don’t like.
Recently, my reading habits have died off a bit. I’m terribly busy or at least that’s what I tell myself. I have no time to read a novel on an average day. When I really think about it though that just isn’t true. I watch television for about an hour daily. I could easily substitute my television watching for reading, but why would I want to?
Learn Grammar and Vocabulary
You could buy a grammar book and study all the rules. You could open the dictionary and start memorizing a page of new words. Honestly, who wants to do that though? Reading is a fun way to improve your language skills. The usage of grammar and words sinks in subconsciously as you read. You don’t even have to be aware of it. Your brain will notice and absorb vocabulary and sentence structure.
Discover Style
As you read you will find authors that you like and don’t like. Read multiple books by the authors you like and try to figure out what you like about their style. As you find more and more books that you enjoy you’ll develop a better understanding of what makes a good story. This knowledge will help you refine your own writing skills.
Enjoy
Reading is tons of fun. Why did you decide you wanted to become an author in the first place? It probably had something to do with some good books you read in your lifetime.
Life is good and you’re living it now. Don’t ignore the simple pleasures that are part of living. Pick up a good book and get lost in the world it weaves around you. How can you expect others to find time to read your writing if you as a writer don’t even have the time to read?