Our students have left us for the summer; they have left us reflecting on the past academic year and planning for the next one. In addition to reflecting and planning, consider finishing the novel that you started but never had time to complete, or begin (and complete) a new one. Do you like to read historical fictions, elegant novels, and tales of good and evil? Go ahead! Make your selection and have fun with some summer reading!
My current read is a historical fiction book called Krik? Krak!, written by Edwidge Danticat. I prefer to read a novel in print, as opposed to on an iPad. The iPad doesn’t provide the thrill of marking a page. The iPad doesn’t give me the same broad smile as print. I can’t share an iPad as easily as a printed novel. I love to share enjoyable novels with my friends. Most books I read during the summer are books my friends previously read and recommended, but I had been too busy to read. Luckily, summer gives me time to catch up on the reading I miss out on during the school year.
Some good summer reading can do at least 5 things for you. It can:
Build conversations.
An engaging book will get you talking! It might be about the plot, characters, settings, or other useful information of which you were originally unaware.
Improve memory.
Researchers say enjoying a book can keep your mind active and alert.
Shift the focus of a busy mind.
It’ll give you a chance to relax and escape everyday mundane situations.
Make you more empathetic.
Researchers in the Netherlands published a study in the journal PLOS ONE, in which they detailed two experiments. The experiments demonstrated that people who are “emotionally transported” by a work of fiction often experience a boost in empathy.
Help you get lost.
It’s great to take time out and get lost in a wonderful book.
In general, reading a good book can be satisfying, improve self-esteem, and help with sleep problems. Also, at times, it helps us form a sense of connection that extends beyond our social circles. Reading provides a stronger and more engaged awareness of social issues. We may even discover data that can support our informed thinking. Read what you like whenever you can, and embrace the fun of the stories that made you happy. Finally, take material from your summer reading, and use it to improve your work in Student Affairs.
