What was the last book you read?

source Yasmeen Syahiera Raman, Shah Alam
http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=45815

READING is a cornerstone for success, not just in schools but also throughout life. Reading is regarded as a process, a mode of thinking and contributes significantly to job success, career development and the ability to respond to change.

But, Malaysians have poor reading habits. A survey by the National Library in 2005 found more than half of its 65,000 respondents read less than seven pages a day and those 10 years and above only read about two books a year.

Positive reading attitudes lead to positive reading experiences, which also lead to higher academic performance. Some recent studies found that generally students who like reading come from families with personal book collections. Families play an important role in creating a positive reading attitude among children.

As Malaysia becomes a fully developed nation it needs individuals who are progressive in striving for self-development. To ensure progress, a good reading habit is important. Literacy development has gone beyond the survival stage to levels of empowerment and human development.

Reading is an activity that is both fun and enlightening. It can help us be more knowledgeable and successful. We should always have a book. Do not go anywhere without reading materials. Keep magazines or short stories in your bathroom. Always have something in your briefcase to read.

Keep a book by your bed. Having things available makes it easier for you to steal otherwise lost moments.

Set a reading goal. Determine how much time you want to spend reading, or how many books you want to read. Your goal might be a book a month, one a week, or to read 30 minutes a day. Start out with something attainable. You can join a reading club or group. Reading groups typically meet once a month to discuss a book they have all decided to read. Committing to the group provides a bit more force to finish the book, and gives you a great forum for discussion and socialisation around the book’s themes.