CREATE A GOOD READING SPOT

It is not essential to design a good reading spot in your home.  Any comfortable well-lighted place will do, however, there are definitely benefits to having a good reading spot.  If you create a specific reading spot it should include the following:

• A comfortable place to sit, recline or lie
• Good natural light
• Good reading light
• Pillows
• A light blanket or wrap
• A table to put drinks or snacks on
• A well-ventilated area
• An area free from distraction
• A room with a door that can be shut to provide privacy
• Shelves with books
• Paper, pens and highlighters for notes, etc.
• A dictionary to look up new words
• A source of tranquil music (if you desire one)
• A pair of reading glasses (if needed)
• Leave electronic devices (except eBook readers) outside the door!

It is best to wear comfortable clothing when you read so that you are able to relax and get into your book.  Be sure to get up now and again to stretch your legs and move a little.  A good reading spot can be an oasis to return to again and again to gain relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of your real world.

Introduce your children to quiet time in the reading spot you have created.  It will teach them to enjoy reading and get caught up in stories that are even better than watching television or movies.  Reading is for all ages and all genres.  Find what you like, sit back, and get into a good book – you’ll be glad you did!

READING IS FOR EVERYONE!

Reading is a favorite pastime of many people, especially if they were exposed to reading early on in life.  Parents can do their children a favor by reading to them aloud at night, buying picture books and taking them to the library.  There is nothing as satisfying as the feel of a good book in your hand while you are reading your favorite genre.  There are many benefits to reading which include:

• Gain knowledge on a variety of subjects
• Entertainment
• Information
• Learning “How To” do something
• Relaxation

Visit your local library for a list of the latest best sellers to read.  New books are prominently displayed for you to peruse and check out.  At times you may have to be put on a waiting list to read a popular best seller, but the upside is that you won’t have to pay for the book

Keep abreast of best sellers at your favorite bookstore.  Many bookstores offer a place to browse and have a cup of coffee, giving you a comfortable place to relax and read excerpts of new books.

Check out reading lists online.  Just type “reading” in a search engine to find several links.  There are many book clubs and groups that post favorite reads – read through them out and see if they are for you.

Best-selling authors have websites.  Go there; enter your e-mail for updates to be contacted when something new is in the works.  Most of these authors have Twitter and Facebook accounts as well. 

Enjoy your reading!