How To Read Critically and Engage More With Books

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares valuable insights on how to read more critically and engage deeply with the stories we consume. Emphasizing the importance of understanding personal subjectivity, analyzing the goal of a book, and asking key questions while reading, they offer actionable strategies for improving your reading experience. The speaker also discusses tools to help track your thoughts, such as journals and note-taking apps, and highlights the importance of reflecting on the personal meaning a book holds for you. Ultimately, this guide aims to enhance both enjoyment and personal growth through more intentional reading.

Takeaways

• 😀 Critical reading is about actively engaging with the story, asking why you like or dislike elements, and understanding your own thoughts and preferences.
• 📚 Everyone can learn to read critically, and it is not an exclusive skill for experts—critical reading is accessible to anyone.
• 💭 Objectivity in reviews is not realistic; acknowledging and understanding your own subjectivity leads to more helpful reviews.
• 🔍 Understanding the author's intent or the goal of the story helps differentiate between personal preferences and flaws in the writing.
• 💡 Critical reading helps you analyze why certain elements of a book resonate with you or not, and it can teach you more about your own tastes.
• 🔄 Asking specific questions while reading (e.g., 'Why do I like/dislike this character?') helps guide your analysis and critique.
• ⚖️ Recognizing that different readers have different preferences helps you consider how other people might view the same book.
• 📝 Writing down your thoughts in a reading journal or using tools like note-taking apps can help you remember key points and engage deeply with the story.
• 📖 When reviewing, consider the balance between your personal preferences and the broader appeal of a book—what works for you might not work for someone else.
• ✨ Reading critically can lead to personal growth by making you more aware of your own preferences and helping you reflect on how stories affect you emotionally and intellectually.
• 🌱 Critical reading doesn't always have to be intense or formal—you can also read just for enjoyment, but being able to analyze books adds value to your reading experience.

Q & A

What is the main goal of critical reading according to the script?

The main goal of critical reading is to actively engage with a story, analyzing why you like or dislike it, and forming coherent opinions. It allows for a deeper understanding of the story and can improve writing and discussion skills.

Why does the speaker suggest not trying to be completely objective in reviews?

The speaker argues that complete objectivity is impossible, as everyone’s brain is wired to be subjective, especially with something as personal as a story. Embracing subjectivity leads to more helpful and honest reviews.

What does the speaker mean by understanding the goal of a story?

Understanding the goal of a story means recognizing what the author intended to achieve. For example, if a romance novel has a lot of romance, it’s not a flaw but a reflection of the author’s goal to tell a romance story.

How can understanding your own subjectivity improve the way you review books?

By being aware of your own biases and preferences, you can better understand why you like or dislike a story and explain those reasons clearly. This makes your review more relatable to others, as they might share or differ in similar ways.

What is the importance of asking 'what should change to make this book perfect to me' while reading?

This question helps you reflect on what specifically didn't work for you in the story and allows you to frame your critique in a personal, rather than objective, way. It also helps you recognize what aspects of the story could be improved for your own enjoyment.

What does the speaker mean by saying that reading critically can teach you something about yourself?

Reading critically helps you explore your personal tastes, preferences, and values by analyzing why certain elements of a story appeal to you and others don’t. This self-awareness extends beyond reading and can affect how you approach other areas of your life.

Why is it important to consider both personal preferences and the book’s goal when critiquing a story?

It’s important because understanding whether a flaw is due to personal preference or a failure of the book’s execution helps you differentiate between what you dislike about the book and what is an actual issue with the writing.

What are some basic questions to ask while reading a book critically?

Some basic questions include: Why do I feel connected or not connected to these characters? Are the events plausible? Am I immersed in the world? Why do I root for or not root for the romance? And what are my thoughts on the writing style?

How do tools like bullet journals or note-taking apps help with critical reading?

Tools like bullet journals or note-taking apps allow you to record your thoughts and insights as you read, making it easier to remember key moments and refine your opinions. These tools help you engage more deeply with the text and track your reactions over time.

What does the speaker suggest is the relationship between reading critically and personal development?

The speaker suggests that reading critically is not only for book reviews but also for personal growth. By analyzing what resonates with you in stories, you can develop a better understanding of your preferences, values, and how to approach challenges in life.