World Book Day - Why we read

In celebration of World Book Day we are asking some questions. Have you ever wondered why reading is so important? When did we start reading? Why are some people drawn to books while others are more interested in movies? Well today we are going to dive into some interesting facts about reading, and share some movies that you might not have known were books first. 

History

People have been communicating through symbols since over 5,550 years ago* where carvings in clay, rock and bone were used to share information with other people of the time and of the future. But reading as we know it today hasn’t always been as accessible, and still isn’t accessible to everyone. Originally only people in high positions of power were able to read, but if you want to find out some more information please check out some of the super cool sources at the bottom of the page, there is so much to learn!

Why people enjoy reading

Reading can be enjoyable for so many different reasons like relaxation, escapism, learning. Getting lost in a magical new world, or being transported back to ancient times all within your own imagination is amazing. But reading is important in more than one way, studies have shown that reading can improve focus, memory, empathy, and communication skills. Reading is excellent for everyone, regardless of age, it can help young people develop and it can stop older people from cognitive decline. 

Reading to Children

It has been recommended that you start reading to children as early as infancy and continue reading throughout their primary years. Not only is it beneficial for their vocabulary, self-esteem, and communication skills, it's good for bonding with your children to create warm and happy memories and associations with reading, so that they will find reading enjoyable in the future. 

If you are in the market for a World Book Day costume, children's books, or even some toys and clothes of their favourite characters, check out the link here.

Movies you didn’t know were books first:

• Die Hard (1988)
• Shrek (2001)
• Clueless (1995)
• Forrest Gump (1994)
• Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
• Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Reading is something that we take for granted on a daily basis. Think about it, at this very second there are a bunch of symbols on this page that your brain is deciphering meaning from in an instant. It is amazing that we can read something written hundreds of years ago and unlock insight into what life was like for those people at that time, what they were interested in, the stories they shared and believed were important enough to pass on and put in ink. There are countless. 

Sources

https://www.bl.uk/history-of-writing/articles/where-did-writing-begin

https://www.nls.uk/collections/rise-of-literacy/