Title: Why people like to read | Pew Research Center
Headings: Why people like to read
Why people like to read
Content: Why people like to read | Pew Research Center
Why people like to read
In our recent report on the rise of e-reading, we asked those who had read a book in the past 12 months to tell us what they like most about book reading. They gave a host of reasons that ranged from the highly practical to the sublime. 26% of those who had read a book in the past 12 months said that what they enjoyed most was learning, gaining knowledge, and discovering information. 15% cited the pleasures of escaping reality, becoming immersed in another world, and the enjoyment they got from using their imaginations. 12% said they liked the entertainment value of reading, the drama of good stories, the suspense of watching a good plot unfold. 12% said they enjoyed relaxing while reading and having quiet time. 6% liked the variety of topics they could access via reading and how they could find books that particularly interested them. 4% said they enjoy finding spiritual enrichment through reading and expanding their worldview. 3% said they like being mentally challenged by books. 2% cited the physical properties of books – their feel and smell – as a primary pleasure.