Tips to help you enjoy reading

I know, I know - there are enough things you have to read for school, and now I want you to read for FUN!?  Reading is one of the great joys of life, in my opinion, and I hope these tips will be helpful to make reading more enjoyable for you!

1. READ!  Obviously, in order to enjoy reading you have to actually pick up a book and start reading!
2. Choose a book you think you'll enjoy.  Try different genres and subjects that sound interesting to you. 
3. Don't be afraid to put the book down if you don't like it.  Sometimes you just can't get into a book; if you aren't enjoying it, you probably won't get much out of it.  Put it away and think about picking it up again at a later time.  (Of course, this doesn't apply to books you need to read for school!)
4. Make reading comfortable.  Grab a cozy blanket and a yummy snack or drink when you curl up with your book.
5. Visualize.  When the author tells you about the characters, locations, and actions in the book, try to visualize them in your head - sort of like a movie you get to direct yourself.  If there isn't specific information about something, use your imagination!
6. Try to relate to the characters.  Think about how you would feel if you were in the characters' place.  How would you react, and what would you do?  If the characters' actions are different than what yours would be, try to understand why they would choose to act the way they do.

I hope this list will encourage you to pick up a new book and help you get the most out of it!  If you would like some suggestions, feel free to talk to me before or after class.