How to Read a Book

01Don't just read a book, understand why you're reading it. What's your goal?

In the insightful work by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren, they dive deep into the world of reading. They don't see it as a passive pastime, but rather as an active engagement with the written word. They believe that it's not enough to just read a book; you need to understand why you're reading it. This might sound a bit confusing, so let's break it down. Adler and Van Doren don't believe that there's a one-size-fits-all approach to reading. Different books call for different reading styles. For example, you wouldn't read a scientific journal the same way you'd read a novel. Each book has its own unique context, style, and purpose, and understanding these can really boost your reading experience. They stress the importance of knowing why you're reading a book. Are you reading for fun, to learn something new, or to critically analyze the text? Knowing your purpose can guide how you read. For instance, if you're reading a book for school, you might need to take detailed notes, cross-reference with other texts, and critically analyze the author's arguments. But if you're reading a book for fun, you might focus more on the plot and characters, letting yourself get lost in the story. Adler and Van Doren also point out the importance of understanding the author's intent. Every author writes with a purpose, whether it's to inform, persuade, entertain, or provoke thought. By understanding this, you can better grasp the book's content and appreciate its value. For example, if you're reading a historical book, knowing that the author's goal might be to educate readers about a certain time period can help you focus on the facts and events in the book. They also argue that understanding why you're reading a book can help you overcome any reading challenges. If you're struggling with a book, it might be because you're not clear about why you're reading it or what you hope to get out of it. By identifying your purpose for reading, you can adjust your reading strategy, making the process more enjoyable and productive. In a nutshell, Adler and Van Doren's idea that "it's not enough to read a book: you must understand why you’re reading it" highlights the importance of active reading. It encourages readers to engage with the text, understand their purpose for reading, and appreciate the author's intent. By doing this, readers can improve their reading experience and get more out of each book they read.