By Ayra Nabilah Muhammad Sahir
I have strong feelings about reading, whether fiction or non-fiction. For some, fiction seems like a waste of time because “it’s not real.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Fiction trains us to imagine lives beyond our own. It builds empathy and compassion. It helps us understand how other people think, feel, and survive.
These days, many books are adapted into movies or TV shows. As a result, people often choose to watch instead of reading. It’s quicker, more visual, but also less personal. Directors may change the storyline, skip details, or simplify complex characters. I find that I understand a character more deeply when I read their thoughts and emotions rather than just watch them on screen.
Books allow us to walk in someone else’s shoes. You live through their hopes and heartbreaks, and learn through their struggles. It’s a quiet, intimate way to understand the world.
More than just stories, books are a legacy. Each one takes years to write, carefully crafted, edited, and imagined by the author. Every word is chosen with intent. That dedication deserves our attention. In contrast, social media rewards quick reactions. Posts are made in seconds, often without much thought. But a book? A book asks you to slow down and reflect.
Reading also builds vocabulary in a natural way. A typical 300-page book contains over 75,000 words. That’s 75,000 chances to learn new expressions, absorb better phrasing, and grow as a communicator.
One of the things I love most about reading is how authors describe everyday things in fresh ways. Trees, streets, emotions—things we usually overlook—suddenly become vivid. Reading sharpens your senses. It makes you pay attention.
And honestly? Reading just feels good. Even a few pages can leave you feeling calm, focused, and fulfilled. Compare that to scrolling through social media, which often ends in exhaustion or guilt. You fall into a black hole of content, and suddenly it’s two hours later.
Sadly, reading habits are declining. Bookstores are busy, but not always with readers. Buying books and reading them are two very different hobbies. Many of us are guilty of collecting books that remain untouched on our shelves.
So how can we change that? Here are some simple ways that I personally found useful in making reading part of your daily life again:
• Read during your commute. Instead of doom-scrolling, plug in music and open a book. Buses and trains can become pockets of peace.
• Read before bed. It’s a calming ritual that slows your mind and improves sleep.
• Set page goals. Challenge yourself to reach 50 pages. If the book still doesn’t grab you, move on. Give yourself permission to explore.
• Look up words. Use a dictionary, physical or online. Highlight, annotate, engage. It deepens your learning.
• Do book swaps with friends. Share your thoughts and compare interpretations. A good story becomes even better when discussed.
• Borrow from libraries. They’re free, full of choices, and often underrated. Malaysia has been working to improve public libraries. Let’s use them.
• Try eBooks. You don’t need to carry a heavy book. Use your phone or Kindle to read anywhere.
• Listen to audiobooks. Many are free on YouTube. They’re perfect for walks, chores or long drives. Hearing a story in the author’s voice adds something special.
• Use reading apps like Goodreads. Track your progress, find reviews, and connect with readers globally.
Books have an ending. Social media doesn’t. It loops endlessly, often leaving you more empty than when you started. So choose your story.
Make time for books. Make it a habit. And make your life—the story you’re writing every day—one that’s filled with imagination, perspective, and empathy.
The author is a first-year Mechanical Engineering student at Universiti Malaya and may be reached at 23001471@siswa.um.edu.my