Ever since I was in elementary school, I enjoyed reading books on my own. Mainly my oldest brother influenced me to do this since he has a passion for literature and reading. If not for him, I would not have tried reading on my own.

Call me old school, but I like reading a physical book rather than an electronic version. I think it is healthier for our eyes to use a physical book. That is one reason why I usually purchased physical college textbooks unless the e-book saved a lot of money. It is also healthy when exercising your imagination when reading, especially with fantasy books like Harry Potter. Books also help you relax better as compared to watching TV, at least that is what I have experienced. Reading a book at night helps you relax after a long, stressful day.

Books are also one of the best mediums of sharing knowledge. The Internet is good for quickly sharing it, but the process of creating a book is slower and more precise. I truly believe this makes books better for learning about an issue or subject compared to just surfing the Internet. Books have changed my mind on issues more than online articles or websites; they give me a more in-depth perspective compared to a quick read that only offers food for thought. I don't mean to make it sound black and white since there are good sources on the Internet that add to our knowledge. But from my personal experience, books do a better job at informing than the Internet. For those who have read my other articles, that is one reason why I suggest books.

I like to read both fiction and nonfiction. Nonfiction tends to get my interest more, but both types have their place. Fiction gives an escape from this world and into another one. J.K. Rowling does a good job with this in the Harry Potter series. Reading Harry Potter's inner and social struggles makes you feel like you are there, or even relate to him. Nonfiction can do the same, but it is more focused on sharing the stories of real people and who they really were. I love to read biographies on famous historical figures, such as George Washington. The most interesting one I have read was one on Teddy Roosevelt. His character and rise to the presidency are fascinating. The book also highlighted how he redefined the boundaries for the executive branch of government. It showed me how even Americans back in Teddy's time were debating the power of the president and criticizing his actions. Some things don't change.

My hobby of reading has improved my life and knowledge. I am trying to do more of it rather than just watch YouTube or Amazon Prime. I have become more well-rounded and I think about issues in depth. Our society can use more of this. People can't complain about a lack of access to books, considering public libraries or bookstores that charge low prices (Barnes N Nobles being the exception).

My oldest brother made a bold statement: he learned more from reading books on his own than he did from many college classes. He has a better understanding of history and society compared to a college class where the professor or college textbook may be narrow-minded or extremely biased. Books can still be biased, but they do a good job of teaching logic and critical thinking. Now that I have gotten through college, I agree with him. Not every college class I took failed to teach me valuable lessons, but reading books on my own supplemented my perspective for the best.

Next time you are relaxing at night, try reading a book and see how it impacts you as it did me.