The Scientific Benefits of Reading Printed Books: 9 Reasons to Pick Up a Paperback

Whether your collection is filled with timeless classics or you don't have a to-read pile at all, it's worth knowing that reading has numerous advantages—and choosing physical, printed books has its own set of perks. There's something uniquely special about the scent of an old book or the satisfying crack of a brand-new spine. Studies show that diving into a good book can greatly enhance your well-being and happiness.

Despite the increasing popularity of e-books and audiobook subscriptions like Audible, 65% of U.S. adults still read print books. In this article, we explore evidence-based reasons why print books should be your go-to choice, along with tips for keeping this reading habit alive as an adult.

1. Enhances Intelligence

As Dr. Seuss famously said, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Immersing yourself in a great book opens a wealth of knowledge from an early age.

Reading—especially children's literature—exposes young readers to a vast vocabulary, which not only boosts reading test scores but also improves performance on general intelligence tests. Early reading skills can also be an indicator of greater intelligence in later years.

2. Increases Brain Power

Regular reading not only helps sharpen your mind, but it can actually boost your brainpower. Just as physical exercise strengthens your cardiovascular health, reading provides a workout for your brain, enhancing memory function. As we age, memory and cognitive abilities tend to decline, but reading regularly might slow down that process and keep your mind sharper for longer.

3. Increases Empathy

Immersing yourself in a captivating book can enhance your ability to connect with others. In particular, literary fiction can help readers better understand others' thoughts and emotions. The effect is especially strong among those who read literary fiction compared to those who prefer nonfiction.

As David Comer Kidd and Emanuele Castano noted in their research, "Understanding others' mental states is a crucial skill that enables the complex social relationships that characterize human societies."

4. Enhances Comprehension of the Material

When it comes to remembering what you've read, printed books outperform e-books. The tactile experience of turning paper pages offers your brain contextual clues, which can deepen understanding and improve your retention of the material. So for better comprehension, choose a book with real pages.

5. Lowers Alzheimer's Risk

Reading keeps your brain active, which is incredibly beneficial. Studies show that people who engage in stimulating activities like reading, playing chess, or solving puzzles are 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who opt for less mentally challenging pastimes. Research indicates that exercising the brain is essential, as inactivity may increase the risk of Alzheimer's.

6. Aids in Relaxation

There’s a reason why curling up with a great book (and perhaps a glass of wine) after a long day is so inviting. Research reveals that reading can be a powerful way to unwind, reducing stress by as much as 68 percent.

As cognitive neuropsychologist David Lewis​ explained, "It really doesn't matter what book you read, by losing yourself in a thoroughly engrossing book you can escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world and spend a while exploring the domain of the author's imagination."

7. Enhances Sleep Quality

Reading a physical book before bedtime promotes relaxation more effectively than staring at a screen. Devices like e-readers and tablets can keep you awake longer and even disrupt your sleep cycle.

This effect extends to children as well: Studies show that 54% of children sleep near a small screen, resulting in 20 fewer minutes of sleep on average. Instead of reaching for your phone or tablet, consider grabbing a real book before you turn off the lights.

8. May Extend Your Life

You might be surprised to learn that research indicates reading printed books could contribute to a longer life. People who read books (as opposed to other media) experienced a 20% lower risk of death. While reading in general is beneficial, it appears that reading physical books, specifically, offers an additional advantage.

9. Promotes Life-Long Reading Habits

A recent survey shows that 82% of parents wish their children would read more for enjoyment, and one way to inspire this is by setting an example at home. Scholastic’s biennial family survey found that when children see adults reading, they are more likely to become regular readers (reading five to seven days a week). While 95% of children say they have someone who enjoys reading in their lives, those with many reading role models are even more likely to develop a habit of frequent reading.

What does this imply? Storytime is a wonderful way to ignite a child’s interest in reading, paving the way for a lifelong love of books. When children observe adults reading and hear them read aloud, it fosters a lasting passion for reading.

Tips for Reading More—and Enjoying It

To enjoy the benefits of reading, the key is simply to read more. However, many adults struggle to find time in their busy lives. Here are a few strategies to help you incorporate more reading into your daily or weekly routine.

Choose Shorter Books

Tackling a long novel can sometimes feel overwhelming. Instead, opt for books with shorter chapters or moderate length. This can help you read more regularly, and finishing these books will give you a sense of achievement.

Set a Timer

Allocate a specific time each day to reading. It doesn't need to be an extensive session—even five minutes can be valuable. Set a timer for your preferred duration and dive into your book.

Establish Goals

Set achievable reading goals based on your daily routine and obligations. You could aim to read a chapter each day, or perhaps 20 pages in one sitting. Another option might be to set a goal of finishing a book every month. Be sure to make your goals realistic and in line with your schedule to make them more attainable.

Keep a Book in the Car

There will likely be times when you're waiting in your car—whether it’s for your child to finish school or waiting for an appointment to start. While reading while driving is a definite no-no, having a book with you during those waiting moments can help pass the time productively.