How Many Books Does an Avid Reader Read?
The number of books an avid reader reads can vary widely based on personal preferences, reading speed, and available time. On average, an avid reader might read anywhere from 20 to 100 books per year. Some readers, particularly those who set specific reading goals or participate in reading challenges, may surpass even this range. The exact number depends on the individual's reading habits and lifestyle.
Factors Influencing Reading Habits
Several factors influence how many books an avid reader chooses to read in a given period. For instance, if someone is reading a series by the same author, such as James Baldwin, they might read back-to-back books from the series, as they did with his works. In such cases, they might read 2-3 books a week. An average reading week for someone with a job is around 3 books. However, reading for the purpose of gaining knowledge on a specific subject can lead to a slower rate, as historical or academic books often require more careful and detailed reading.
Personal Experiences of an Avid Reader
Some avid readers, like myself, have found that even their reading speed is influenced by personal conditions. For example, being mildly dyslexic means that reading speed can be significantly slower. Despite this, I maintain a list of books completed in a year, typically ranging from 15 to 17 volumes. This is lower than some avid readers who can read up to 100 books a year. However, the key is not the speed but the comprehension and enjoyment derived from reading.
Reading slower has its benefits. It allows for a deeper connection with the writer and the story, and the ability to savor every nuance of syntax, sentence structure, and word choice. Additionally, reading longer works can be more rewarding. Complex and lengthy books, like the 1000-page Balkan Trilogy by Olivia Manning, can provide more information, texture, and entertainment than several shorter books. The challenge of structuring a long narrative can also be intellectually stimulating.
Quality Over Quantity
The excitement of being an avid reader lies not in the number of books read but in the quality of the works. Every reader moves at a different pace, and the difficulty of the books can vary significantly. Some avid readers, like myself, read slowly and carefully, ensuring full comprehension. Others may read more rapidly, covering a wider range of subjects in a shorter time.
The key to success as an avid reader is finding the balance that works for you. Whether it's 10 pages a day or a whole book a week, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and gain knowledge and insight into the world and the people in it. Reading is a lifelong journey, and there's no rush to reach a certain number of books. The experience of reading, the pleasure of exploring new ideas, and the satisfaction of understanding complex narratives are what truly matter.