by Adelle Holmes

Created on: April 16, 2008

Sure, I haven't been to Disney World or to visit the Grand Canyon. Maybe I haven't been outside the country to see Big Ben and the Great Wall of China. However I have been to places that those who don't read can't get to. Hogwarts, a chocolate factory, Forks, Washington, Middle Earth...Reading does not only provide something to do with your time (that's not on TV), but it also provides an escape from the world you're living in and into a new one. Several times have I been to places in books and each time they have given me the same amount of pleasure.

When we were younger we all heard adults talking about how books are 'tickets' into different worlds. That seems to be true. These things we call 'books' can be more than just words packed into binding to become a fantastic piece of literature. They bring us out of one world and into another! Almost like magic! It probably is magic the way the words are woven into a great story that thousands of people love to read. The best kinds of stories though are those that leave you in tears because a loved character died. Or when music is playing in the background but as you look up from the book suddenly...where'd the music go? Has it been off this whole time? When that happens to you know you are really getting into the book.

I have been reading since I could read and have enjoyed it ever since. Right now I own so many books that I have thousands (an exaggeration) I still need to read and I have two bookshelves of books. I am still wondering what I am going to do with the new books I buy that won't fit on the shelfs. A third shelf? That wouldn't be too bad considering I want a huge library when I am older. Just think: a huge library full of tickets to other worlds! And, if it makes a difference, you only have to pay a small amount (small considered to the airline tickets these days) for a round trip.

Reading takes you into the imagination of others and lets your imagination start moving. Soon after you're hooked on reading you could start writing because, hey, who wouldn't want to write about their own made-up world? It can transform those long, rainy days into adventures elsewhere.

There are billions of people out in the world who probably have never picked up a book in their lives. Do they even know what they are missing? Are they sure they won't like reading? If they knew what they were missing I am sure they would hurry to the nearest bookstore to pick up a book. Although they may want to read, finding the books that interest you are harder. My brother doesn't like reading and I keep telling him that I will interview him to find out what he would like to read about, what style he wants it in, etc. Hopefully one day a book will be written that all those people who hate reading will love to read. For now those books can be the ones that capture their attention unexpectedly when the person is completely unaware. Pure magic. Then they'll know what it feels like to be in a different land with characters who have different personalities. It's fun!

Here I go, I am opening up my book ready to leave. Have I got everything? Shoes? A jacket? After all, my adventures in this new land may leave my arms chilly! But wait...I am still sitting on my bed barefoot and jacket less.

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