Five Reasons Books Beat Screens
Let’s slow down for a moment. I can’t ask you to set aside your device because you’re reading this post on one. However, let’s immerse ourselves in the timeless joy of reading a physical book.
Here are five reasons (there are more, but these five resonate with me) why a book beats a screen.
Books stimulate the imagination and creativity.
Both fiction and non-fiction stories transport you to new worlds. The best gift from a book is the creation of mental imagery. Although scientists have found animals use some form of imagination when making choices, our imagination — the ability not only to make choices but to use our thinking to predict and create — makes us unique.
Practical example: read a recipe in a cookbook. Create the dish. Of course, you could read the recipe on a device, but … see number three.
2. Books enhance vocabulary and language skills.
Dive into a book, and you’ll encounter a treasure trove of words and phrases to expand your linguistic repertoire. No, it doesn’t mean you can bore people at parties with big words. It does mean your understanding of the world improves. Better engagement with language drives a better understanding of complex issues.
Practical example: reading opinion pieces (like these) in newspapers and magazines creates a mental response. Do I agree or disagree? Take it a step further and explain why.
3. Books reduce distractions.
With your nose in a book, you won’t get notifications, pop-up ads, or the sudden urge to check social media. A book is one of the best ways to escape digital noise.
Practical example: see No. 1.
4. Books strengthen memory.
Research suggests that reading on paper enhances memory retention compared to reading on screens, giving your brain a workout in remembering details.
Practical example: I read books. I also, from time to time, read digital books. I have found that I need to re-read part of the previous chapter when I return to the story in a digital format. That doesn’t happen when I read printed books.
In addition to boosting your retention, books enhance attention span and concentration without the temptation of continual digital distractions. See No. 3!
5. Books deepen emotional connections.
The tangible nature of books allows for a deeper emotional connection with characters and plots, creating a bond beyond pixels on a screen. This occurs along with the tactile sensations of the smell of the paper and the feeling of turning the pages.
We live in a digital world. The only way I have to share this stuff with you is via a device. Give books a try. See if my reasons connect with yours.
PS. Books never need a battery.
