Reading for fun has real benefits

A new research review found that reading for pleasure at any age boosts well-being, reduces stress, and increases empathy.

Kids who read early do better in school

Research involving 10,000 children shows that reading for fun improves memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

It's never too late to start

Barbara Sahakian, a psychiatry professor at the University of Cambridge, says reading can bring benefits throughout our lives and into old age.

“it's never too late to start”

But children are reading much less

In 2025, only 37% of 9-year-olds read for fun almost every day, down from 53% in 1984. For 13-year-olds, it dropped to 14% from 35% in 1984.

Screen time is eating reading time

A federal survey found that more than 50% of 12- to 17-year-olds spend at least four hours each day online.

Books aren't the only option

Graphic novels, magazines, and comics all provide the same benefits as traditional books. The key is finding material that matches a child's interests.

Reading fights loneliness in adults

Studies show that reading for pleasure reduces feelings of loneliness and improves social connection, especially when people participate in book clubs.

It protects aging brains

Frequent reading is linked to slower cognitive decline in older adults, helping preserve mental sharpness as we age.

We need to make reading a priority

Christelle Langley, a psychiatry professor at Cambridge, says we should do everything we can to introduce children and young people to reading.