Power of Reading: A Tool for Lifelong Learning

Margaret Atwood once said, “I read for pleasure and that is the moment I learn the most.” This quote perfectly captures Geetanjali’s lifelong relationship with books. Reading began as a source of joy and adventure, but quickly became essential to both personal growth and professional development as an educator. Her earliest memories of books are intertwined with libraries - portals to a world of magic, knowledge, and imagination. The local library, with its towering wooden shelves, was a world of possibilities. She recalls the excitement of receiving her first library card, followed by the disappointment of being turned away when she returned the next day to borrow another book. “Luckily, my school library could offer more books to satisfy what seemed like an unending appetite for reading” she says. The power of reading, as she puts it, is a tool for lifelong learning.

This passion followed Ms. Shrivastava through university, where she explored the dusty aisles of the university library and marvelled at the treasure troves of knowledge they held. She also frequented the British Council Library, housed in Mittal Towers in Mumbai, where air-conditioned rooms provided respite from the city's muggy heat and created a perfect atmosphere for diving into both academic research and leisurely reading. Later, the bibliothèques of the Alliance Française network added a new dimension to my relationship with libraries - they became spaces for professional development, helping her upgrade her skills, discover classroom activities, and improve her French.

Importance of Reading for Educators

As a teacher, Geetanjali believes that reading is much more than a pastime; it is a professional necessity. Books provide knowledge, fresh perspectives, and empathy, all of which are crucial in the classroom. Fiction cultivates creativity, history offers context, and self-help books present strategies to better understand and guide students. A well-read teacher brings lessons to life, making learning more engaging and relatable. When students see their teachers passionate about books, it inspires them to explore literature beyond their textbooks. In today's fast-paced world filled with digital distractions, an educator's enthusiasm for reading can act as a guiding light, encouraging students to rediscover the joy of getting lost in a good book.

Reading Transforms Minds

One of the most common concerns today is the declining attention span among children. Blamed largely on the omnipresence of digital devices, and social media, this issue raises an important question: can reading help children develop better concentration? The answer is a resounding yes.

The gimmicky nature of the short-form content, that is so popular on social media, has had an impact on their ability to concentrate for more than a few minutes, leading to the growth of transient attention among Generation Z. Few are able to retain interest in a topic and truly go beyond surface level comprehension. But the impact isn’t restricted to students. It has also reached the publishing world. Over the decades, poetry and literature have become more direct and accessible. The meteoric rise of Instagram-poetry which reflects emotions in a distilled, digestible form is evidence of this shift. Graphic novels, too, have surged in popularity, blending visuals with text for instant impact. While they’re innovative and engaging, they often prioritise immediacy over layers of meaning. The recent popularity of AI-generated poetry fits seamlessly into this trajectory. With straightforward themes and simple structures, it resonates with a generation accustomed to consuming short-form content; a format optimized for scrolling, not savouring.

On the other hand, classic literature was never meant to be simple. Books (even simple fiction) on the other hand, demand sustained attention. They demand effort. They require readers to follow complex narratives, remember characters, and engage with ideas for an extended period. This act of deep reading strengthens cognitive abilities, enhances focus, and nurtures patience; skills that are essential for not just academic success, but also in their professional life.

Changing the Course of Reading

However, the challenge lies in rekindling a love for books. One way is to make school libraries dynamic spaces, not just silent rooms lined with books. Organizing interactive storytelling sessions, book clubs, and even digital detox challenges could draw children back. Schools could also introduce personalised reading recommendations, helping students discover books that match their interests. 

Sweden’s recent shift from digital devices back to textbooks is a lesson in how to balance technology with traditional reading methods. While India’s education system has not entirely transitioned to tech-based learning, there is a noticeable decline in children reading books outside their curriculum.

Several factors contribute to this:-

First, the growing emphasis on exam-oriented studies leaves little room for leisure reading. Parents and teachers often prioritize textbooks, unintentionally side lining the joy of reading for pleasure. 

Second, the easy availability of digital entertainment (video content, social media, and games) competes directly with books for children’s attention. 

Finally, the lack of a strong reading culture in many households means that children are not introduced to books early in life.

To address this, we need a collective effort from parents, educators, and policymakers. Schools must integrate reading for pleasure into their curricula, allowing students to explore literature beyond textbooks. Parents should model reading habits at home, making books a natural part of everyday life. Libraries need to evolve into engaging spaces where books are celebrated, not just stored.

Keep Reading

Reading is not just about literacy; it is about shaping curious, reflective, thoughtful and empathic individuals. As we navigate a complex era of digital overload and polarised opinions, bringing books back into children’s lives is more important than ever. It is a responsibility we all share, and it begins with a single step - picking up a book and turning the first page.

Ms. Geetanjali Shrivastava Recommends:

The Dark Room by Rachel Seiffert: An incredibly beautiful and poignant book about the Second World War, that is highly relevant in the current international political climate of rising nationalism and revisionist histories 

Inés of My Soul by Isabel Allende: A sweeping historical novel that transports readers to the heart of 16th-century South America both a captivating adventure and a profound reflection on colonialism and identity.

Around the World in 80 Trains by Monisha Rajesh: An exhilarating travel memoir that captures the romance and adventure of train journeys across continents. The book is a testament to the power of slow travel, highlighting both the joys of exploration and the connections that transcend borders.