Wherever I go these days, I see people with electronic devices scrolling TikTok, texting, and playing video games. Whether on a train, at a restaurant, or family gathering, the devices seem ever-present. But the other day I was at Heinen’s waiting to pay for some groceries and a girl about 9 years old was standing with her mother reading a book, flipping the pages, engulfed. My heart soared to see such a thing. I smiled at her and asked, “You like reading books?”

“I love reading them,” she responded. I looked at her mother and said, “You will never regret raising a reader.”

Readers are interesting people. Their world is bigger than themselves. With summer upon us, it’s time to relax with a good book. Recent studies confirm that reading paper-based printed text is a more effective way to absorb and retain information than reading on screens. The benefits of reading go beyond improved language skills and knowledge of the world. It helps to develop empathy, emotional awareness, and imagination. Reading printed books relaxes the nervous system rather than overstimulating it.

At home, it can start early with parents reading aloud to their children. When kids see you reading a book it’s modeling behavior that they may want to emulate. Reading is a path for parents to connect with their kids during all stages of life.

If you don’t know what to read, consider joining one of the many book clubs in our community. Ask a librarian or a friend who reads for suggestions. I recommend “The Samurai’s Garden” by Gail Tsukiyama. It’s a short, quiet book, with lovely characters who care about each other. Barrington Area Library staff member Karen McBride told me “The Great Gatsby” is always in the top 10 list of books checked out by residents.

If you or your kids haven’t read a book in a while, don’t worry. Charlie Donlea, best-selling author who will be speaking at Barrington’s White House on June 15, said he didn’t read a novel until he was 20 years old! There are different timelines for different people.

I don’t know if joyful readers are born that way or developed through their environment. What I do know is that reading a good book can change one’s life in a meaningful way. You sit with a book. No scrolling. I am not advocating a ban on electronic devices. They are of great benefit when used wisely. My reading room contains no electronics. My office is another matter. Everything in moderation. Enjoy summer!