Students finding independent reading rewarding

Paperbacks rotate in and out of backpacks as students pick up books on their own time, reading whenever they can fit into their schedules. Without assignments or requirements, reading has become a personal choice shaped by interest and mood. 

Sophomore James Brown said he prefers reading when it is completely up to him. “I don’t feel rushed or forced to read it,” Brown said. “It’s just something I pick up when I have time, and that makes it more enjoyable.”

Sophomore Rebecca Jones said she tries to stay consistent with reading even during busy weeks. “It gives me something to look forward to,” Jones said. “Even if I’m busy, I know I’ll have at least a little time to read.”

Junior Addyson Mayor said her book choices change depending on how she feels.”Some days I want something really emotional, and other times I just want something easy,” Mayor said. “It just depends on what I feel like reading.” 

While there is no shared structure behind it, students say reading on their own time allows them to enjoy books in a way that fits rather than being forced into their daily lives.