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The Value of Reading


© Heather Ringrose

Jan 23, 2001


Reading is one of the greatest hobbies a person can have. Gifted and Talented teens can especially take something valuable from reading. Often isolated, alienated, and lonely, they can find kindred spirits in the books they read. Reading is a form of escape to a world more like the one you want to live in. It is a relaxing past-time in which you can grow in your own writing abilities. It exposes you to fascinating new ideas that you may never have known had you not read the book.

A favorite author of mine for years was James Herriot. This man was a writer and veterinarian in the English Yorkshire Highlands. He writes about fascinating experiences he has in his life. He roams the beautiful countryside in a little car and tends to his patients all over the land at whatever time he is needed. He helps with lambing in the spring as the icy wind blows across the hills and freezes him. He tends to raging bulls in stalls and gets the odd kick or two. He takes care of dogs and cats in the hundreds, all of who have interesting and unique stories behind them. James Herriot is happy and that is what I like about him. At an age in life where teens are wondering how they can make themselves a happy, successful future, James Herriot makes an excellent role model. Don’t miss out on this author.

Recently I discovered another great author: Leon Uris. He writes epic novels documenting the histories of Ireland and other countries. Trinity begins with a young catholic boy and goes through his troubled life. It really helps to show why the Protestants and RCs in the United Kingdom are always at odds. If you like history, this book is for you. Leon Uris also writes about ghetto life in WW2 and books about disputes in such countries as Spain. He brings the details to life as no history textbook can do. Leon Uris is a must for history buffs. I recommend Mila18 and Trinity.

Currently my favorite author is Edward Rutherford. He writes epic histories as well. One of his best is called Sarum. This book documents the history of England from 10000 years ago to present. It is fascinating to read about the first tribes in what is now England who saw ice where the English Channel now lies. You see the different generations of the same families living in all the eras up to today. They go through the plague, numerous invasions, the building of magnificent

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages
1.   Jul 27, 2001 3:19 PM
I totally agree with your sentiments about the value of a good book, especially to youngsters. I am trying to encourage my grand daughter who is eight years old to read more. I know Harry Potter is ...

-- posted by Lynda04



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