Since making this video, I've split my manga content and book content in two different channels. Feel free to follow my book channel if you like: www.youtube.com/@merphynapierreviews

@sateeshparmar8201

Ай бұрын

Please speak slowly because of there is so many people who are not quickly understand English...

@great4ever845

Ай бұрын

Damn would

@ThePresentation010

Ай бұрын

@@sateeshparmar8201 i sped that shlt up. She talks slow.

@markianruanto8003

Ай бұрын

This is my first time watching you, and i think you're really cute.. .❤

@shishirkumar821

Ай бұрын

I thought it’s written in her shirt boob hangover

I once asked my father why he paid for all my books, even if I just read them for pleasure and not for school and stuff. He replied with "Because your brain needs those books in the same way your body needs food, and we don't make you pay for your food".

@Sunflower-mz8ro

2 жыл бұрын

Great parenting

@asemahlegumede

2 жыл бұрын

That's so sweet😍

@nana70

2 жыл бұрын

Aww i wish my parents would buy me some books 😅

@abelvalente1425

2 жыл бұрын

God bless him ✊🏻

@qazedc3

2 жыл бұрын

I wanna be adopted by your father

Entertainment wise, my favorite moments in reading are when you get really into a story then stop seeing the words and just have a movie reel playing in my head. Brains are cool, your brain is cool. Loved the video.

@ILoveJahangeer

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely agree! I just love my brain putting all of the words in a book into moving pictures in my mind!

@rolanddeschain6089

2 жыл бұрын

Yes! But it always takes a while. That is one of the reasons why I always try to read as much as possible in one go. 5 or 10 pages before bed isn't half as immersive as 50 or more pages. The book unfolds in front of you, the more commitment you show.

@WillEnj0y

2 жыл бұрын

Am I the only one who has a hard time with this? I read the words but only get a very vague image in my head of what I am reading

@ethandorf5828

2 жыл бұрын

@@WillEnj0y Sameee. Searched for this type of comment😂🤝

@WillEnj0y

2 жыл бұрын

@@ethandorf5828 yeah, like I still enjoy reading and get stuff out of it, it I DEFINITELY would not go anywhere near calling it a movie in my head. Idk if it’s just me though

1. Enhances attention span 2. Engages and exercises the left temporal cortex: language, facts, memory 3. Lower risk of dementia, increase emotional regulation, increase verbal recall 4. Increases empathy 5. Benefits the brain even as an adult

@jameshealy9976

2 жыл бұрын

*laughs in irony*

@KevGuerra

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks a lot!

@princesslacson6291

2 жыл бұрын

@pk5l ouip attention span problems 😂

@PutYoRhymeOn

2 жыл бұрын

@@princesslacson6291 The irony smh

@DarkHorseDanny

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for making it simpler

Fun fact: Your brain has a hard time differentiating between fictional characters and real people. That's why you feel for the characters you love so much. You go on this journey with them wherever it leads, through the ups and downs and everything in between. They're real to you. When they're happy, you feel happy for them, and when they're sad or stressed or confused you feel that -you feel their pain and the weight of their burdens and want to take all those negative experiences away from them. It's why we grieve so much when they die. Because as far as our brain knows that's someone we love and care for who's gone.

@marykay8587

2 жыл бұрын

So much psychology I love it!

@anamariaramirez9341

2 жыл бұрын

@@marykay8587 I'm glad! 😊

@Joyce-ff7ms

2 жыл бұрын

So well said, I cried like crazy whenever my beloved fictional characters die 😂😂

@alison-zr8zc

2 жыл бұрын

i wish i could fell like that.

@MarcelOchemba

2 жыл бұрын

I know right. Reading 📚 is so cool 😎!

To quote random guy on the internet, reading is "staring at a piece of dead tree for hours, hallucinating vividly."

@someoneintheneighbourhood7937

2 жыл бұрын

I swear that person is everywhere -_-

@deleted-qr2jf

2 жыл бұрын

I wish I didn't have anphantasia so I could say that I can do this

@playerw98

2 жыл бұрын

@@deleted-qr2jf What's that like?

@deleted-qr2jf

2 жыл бұрын

@@playerw98 it's just like...​staring at a piece of paper and absorbing the information. you understand what's going on, you just don't see it :(

@playerw98

2 жыл бұрын

@@deleted-qr2jf That's so interesting! First time I've heard of this. I'm trying to wrap my mind around how you remember the stories if they aren't ever made into pictures. Really fascinating

Merphy: "here are reasons why reading is good for you" Me, watching this video while having a full bookshelf in front of me: "interesting"

@jmpjjacobs4829

2 жыл бұрын

I gave you your 42nd Like...you know what that means; have your towel ready: The most important equipment in the universe... GET IT?!?

@eliasbischoff176

2 жыл бұрын

@@jmpjjacobs4829 I raise my pan galactic gargle blaster to you

@Tony-lc5kc

2 жыл бұрын

DON'T PANIC!!

@Elies313E

2 жыл бұрын

@@eliasbischoff176 Hello fellow human with the same name as me (mine is catalanized, so in catalan it's written Elies, but in Spanish Elias). Have a good day. Also, my bookshelf is behind me...

@eliasbischoff176

2 жыл бұрын

@@Elies313E you have a good day too☺️

When I was a child, my parents weren't really active in my development. Sure, they fulfilled all of the "legal" requirements as in feeding and clothing me, but that was all. I didn't have many friends and I was pretty behind developmentally. I was well below grade level in reading and I even had to attend speach therapy. At some point, my parents felt the ever growing need to get me out of the house. As a result, I started spending more and more time with my grandmother. I don't know how she did it, but she didn't make me read, she made me *want* to read. I went from "Green eggs and ham" to "Are you there God, it's me Margaret" to "The Old man and the sea". In a period of a couple of years it was if I became the main character in "Flowers for Algernon". I caught up to my classmates in reading and eventually surpassed them. I took to writing my own stories. I suppose it's a bit grandiose to say reading changed my life. But, I can definitely say reading brought color into an otherwise sepia toned childhood.

@marykay8587

2 жыл бұрын

I need to speak to your grandmother I'm a mother to a 6 year old who doesn't like reading 🤷😖

@canmoose3092

2 жыл бұрын

If children see influenciential adults reading and enjoying reading, then the child will read.

@jeanniezeck6063

2 жыл бұрын

God bless your wise grandmother. She introduced you to wonder, curiosity, ambition, and joy.

@shena4872

2 жыл бұрын

I wish you and your grandmother the best! Your story is amazing.

@nunyabizness6595

2 жыл бұрын

My life was similiar. The books that had an impact on me were an eclectic bunch: tom sawyer, andromeda strain, day of the jackal, star trek adaptations by james blish and allan dean foster and a few non ST books by foster and the comic books by Stan Lee. So thank heaven for Lee and Roddenberry.

My brother, who is an English professor put it this way: "People who don't read fiction Don't understand Reality." One of my favorite quotes, to be sure lol

@rolanddeschain6089

2 жыл бұрын

I've been preaching that for a long time. However, I always go very far in my explanation. This quote explains a relatively complex issue very clearly or can function nicely as a supplementary mnemonic. Thanks for that!

@klove5974

2 жыл бұрын

@@rolanddeschain6089 Not gone lie, I want to hear your long explanation.

@lotechukwuikpo

2 жыл бұрын

@@klove5974 me too

@melaniegiebisch176

2 жыл бұрын

@@rolanddeschain6089.

@kingyanni859

2 жыл бұрын

elaborate and explain that quote to me please

Although we don't appreciate it a lot, readers have a wonderful community where even the shy people can express their love for their favourite book. That can be a benefit too because we need connections

@rolanddeschain6089

2 жыл бұрын

Someone who reads widely is almost always a great conversation partner because you know that this person is not only open to different books but open to almost everything.

@taliw7736

2 жыл бұрын

True I think it's so great how we have tons of ways to share our reading preference ☺️💖

Reading definitely improves your attention spa- oh look is that a bird!

@atharvadeshpande4749

2 жыл бұрын

Reading developed my attention span so mu- ooh a text.

@AikiraBeats

2 жыл бұрын

Yep that's exactly how I am

@ailbhekeady526

2 жыл бұрын

Same mine seems to have gotten worse

@shapelessinc.8790

2 жыл бұрын

Weeeeeeee. W- what were you saying?

@thetravelinsagittarian1316

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha! 🤦🏽‍♀️😂

3:45 "When we live in a society that's constantly trying to get information faster, constantly trying to get their entertainment faster, our attention spans just narrowing and narrowing, and reading is actually one of those things that expands that attention span alot" thank you!

@anugnad

2 ай бұрын

😊

Reading isn’t a sideline to life, life is a sideline to reading!!! ❤ Absolutely BEAUTIFUL video!!!! ❤

I’m a spanish native speaker but I do all my reading in english. I feel like i’ve mantained my english level high by reading a lot (and youtube lol)

@cecilie...

2 жыл бұрын

Same here but with German! Reading in English really helps me maintain my English level :)

@cuteclau

2 жыл бұрын

Same. I love reading in either language, but I intentionally try to read in English to maintain my level. So far, it's worked.

@JV-hh8lp

2 жыл бұрын

Same! I've finished high-school almost 10 years ago and there's a huge difference between my classmates' English and mine.

@asbrightassan6127

2 жыл бұрын

Im Indian and I did learned a lot of English by ready and youtube too

@mcstabba

2 жыл бұрын

I'm swedish and like to read books in english as well to maintain a decent grasp of the english language.

The attention span thing is something I've noticed myself. I have ADHD and if I read more I'm more productive and just generally feel better. And if I don't read for a few days I'll immediately notice my attention span shrinking Anyway, I think I should pick up a book now

@lowercase_ash

2 жыл бұрын

Huh, I'm ADHD too, I should try that!

@touf48

2 жыл бұрын

i've got adhd too, i've read in the past, and i've noticed the same exact thing too! i haven't read in a few months though and right now my chaotic adhd brain is running wild. i'll get back into reading soon though... just after 1 more video..

@cs2874

2 жыл бұрын

Read Gabor Maté's Scattered Minds.

@jonathancooper4914

2 жыл бұрын

You won’t regret it.

@ReginaCopado

Жыл бұрын

I also have that and I often wonder if my attention gets worse because I stopped reading, or if I stopped reading because I couldn't concentrate and then it just got worse and worse...

Finally, someone on BookTube that's not all about hoarding and TBRs and unboxing and hauls.

I used to be such an avid reader. Everything from Dostoevsky to Hemmingway to Pablo Neruda, but I started losing my eyesight, and that all changed. But you, you talking head you, are really inspiring. Look how popular you are doing your talking head bit. I'm "literally" going to go read now. Awesome.

This is the sort of thing I wish there was more of. Helps people get into reading, not just entertain readers. Very well done.

@PhantomGreyfire

2 жыл бұрын

Would love to see an in-depth analysis of the role audiobooks can play in this, and the audiobooks vs. physical books comparison. ----- [Audiobooks Are Awesome](kzread.info/dash/bejne/kYGb0Zt_ca3ec7g.html) I wrote the following a while ago in a reply to the video above, and thought I would share it here because it might be helpful. Also, I'd like to see Daniel do an in-depth video comparing the two. ---- Apologies if I sound corny, and/or my selection of words is poor (English isn't my first-or second-language). I 'read' audiobooks quite often. I don't have an e-reader (but do read on my smartphone). These add up to more than half of my reading time. And I do get it-I'm a bit tired of those snobbish anti-other than-physical-text comments myself-and I agree with what you said here specifically. I don't have much solid defense for anti e-reader sentiment; however, I don't think you quite did justice to what an educated anti-audiobook stance may be (not that I believe precisely that was your intention behind this video), and so would like to offer some. These are not universal, solid, and/or objective criticisms; just my idea of what more concrete sentiments may lie on the other side of the scale here-stated such, or otherwise. Stories have been in narration far longer than they have been in print. More humans can listen to complex ideas than can read them. Printed text is very new in the grand scheme of things. True. However, our current books would not be received well if they had been recited by the village bards. I'm imagining your local storyteller reciting the latest chapter from [insert recent stellar author] every other week in the town square. Simply put, those stories were 'written' to be recited, and it's mostly the other way around now; and that makes them quite different. If one listens to the audiobook, there is a greater barrier to the pausing capability. The text of a book rarely ends up in a state where a narrow range of reading speed throughout is ideal to the consumption of the text. While one is reading, not all passages are equally heavy-hitting i.e. not equally time-requiring. There are some amazing one-liners that beg time to ponder on the spot. The narrators are quite limited in their ability to do much about this. Different readers devote different stretches of time to specific aspects, and these may not line up with what the narrator (or author for that matter) valued more in their reading e.g. detailed descriptions of clothing. The physical text on physical paper is serving a purpose other than going through and bringing the story to life in one's brain. Audiobooks may lack (and I'll elaborate on this)… character; in that they can not be same physical 'tools for adjusting one's senses' (reference to 'Psycho-Pass' season one-highly recommend by the way). One can not have as much control over the experience with an audiobook, it can feel like something pressed upon you (granted-with one's assent) rather than something you yourself are reading with agency. an extremely well-delivered lecture rather than a... companion. The ability to take your desired time with the text (and it's different quirks) can be quite important. Moreover, while there are plenty of sublime narrations, and these do potentially add (much) more to the experience than the inside-one's-head reading of the text. This is still undeniably an extra lens between the reader and the writer, and if one is purely attempting to judge how well the author managed to bring the book-experience to life through their text-you may find yourself in such a position, Daniel-it might make the job tougher if one has only consumed the audiobook, which could understate and/or overstate this ability. I have a few examples in mind, but I would rather stick to the theory here. Onto a more important point I'm actually surprised you didn't address. The grammar of the text itself. There is a quite primal and ironically difficult-to-put-into-words process through which one becomes a better and better reader. The voice in your mind essentially. I don't believe many readers pay much attention to this aspect of the reading process, but it's actually quite important. That voice changes and grows with time, and that-to a large extent depends on physical reading of text (I know a few neuroscientists), e.g. one can can increase ones reading speed more visibly (i.e. one can quite plainly see the 'improvements' in steady increments) and more universally (i.e. it translates to both audio and text) by reading physical text than by 'reading' the audiobook. The ability to write well (punctuation and all) might not develop as well if one only consumes audiobooks from a young age, those abilities become harder to master as time marches on. I could say more, but this has already become a tedious rant I did not plan on. So there. [insert appropriate]

“Your Brain on Fiction” Annie Murphy Paul has some interesting points eg “The brain, it seems, does not make much of a distinction between reading about an experience and encountering it in real life”. Also reading literary fiction is what increases empathy.

@enie6359

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah. This is why parasocial relationships feel so real, because for all intents and purposes they are real to our brains.

@Luke-nn4pm

2 жыл бұрын

Huh only reading fantasy and sci fi must be why I'm an apathetic jerk. Still not worth it to read boring literary fiction tho

@NamasteBbooktube

2 жыл бұрын

Reading genre fiction wouldn't increase empathy, then?

@scurrilousss

2 жыл бұрын

@@Luke-nn4pm I feel this

@Luke-nn4pm

2 жыл бұрын

@@scurrilousss Ah, always nice to encounter other sarcastic nerds!🤝

The few times I have read, I found words are like keys that unblocks something deep within, as if something begins flow or opens up. It in turn helps in interpersonal communications. You open upto to others easily if you're a reader. Yet I am not a reader, computer or technical books may be yes , but not books about human life, thanks for this video, I am inspired, just 10 pages a day. Thank you.

You've earned a subscriber, ive seen some pf your book reviews but this has put you in a new light for me and I owe you the respect

I got into reading around November, so it hasn't even been a full year yet, but the thing I noticed most was an improvement in my memory. Never thought that I would get into reading so much!

@hollyruth9664

2 жыл бұрын

SAME! its incredible the difference it makes

I started reading at the age of 19. It was booktube that got me into reading. I was into nonfiction productivity summary. KZread suggested me booktube. After gaining interest in watching people talk about books for hours, I tried to give it a go. Now I'm 22, not an avid reader yet, but it made me realise I love writing. I'm forever greatful for booktube community.

Your passion about reading is infectious! Love it... Thanks for the breakdown and great video. The act of consistently bringing our focus back to one place is the basis of mediation too.

In the book reviews I have seen, you have the skill to put the finger on things that I have been thinking but not been able to put into words. Thanks for your work.

In my experience, reading has a direct and noticeable effect on my cognitive function. Mainly my vocabulary and memory, I notice these the most. I spent about 3yrs not reading any books after being an avid reader for 10+yrs. I didn’t notice the difference when I stopped reading, but when I started again I clearly felt the benefits!

I was today year's old when I learned the term "Doom Scrolling." Such an accurate descriptor though! Thank you for your insight on the power of reading!

Thank you , I am so impressed listening to this presentation. I thought perhaps I was a dying breed. I’m in my late 60s and have been avidly reading books since about the fourth grade. (My mother told me that I was tested as reading at an eighth grade level when I was in the fifth grade.) Not a brag, but just attesting to my absolute lifelong love for reading.

Whenever I struggle with motivating myself to read, all I have to do is watch one of your videos! Your enthusiasm is contagious!!!!

Merphy will become a book scientist one day XD

We have so little research into the psychology of storytelling and reading but is so fascinating from an anthropological point of view, how humans across all cultures love stories and how books are really just another extension of our love for stories.

Not only did I get some good insight about the benefits of reading for my brain, but I simply loved the passion and the enjoyment you express when you're talking about it. It's awesome

I’m glad that our teacher gave us a project to create a website that shows our hobby. So I used it as an opportunity to read more and made a website where I can use it as my journal and track my reading progress (like in goodreads). Now, I’ve already read 7 books in 3weeks and I’m really loving it!

JOKES ON YOU I FIDGET WHILE I READ. SITTING STILL? ATTENTION SPAN? LIEEEESSSS Oh look a shiny thing!

@vladr8968

2 жыл бұрын

"Me who got ran over by a car while listening to an audiobook"

@ananyamaybe

2 жыл бұрын

i have ADHD and try to improve my attention by devouring books and this is so accurate pls-

@hamnah9532

2 жыл бұрын

wow quirky

@Ignaz.Semmelweis

2 ай бұрын

​@@ananyamaybehow is your attention now? are you reading regularly?

@ananyamaybe

2 ай бұрын

@@Ignaz.Semmelweisactually, yeah i've stopped reels etc. i can listen to hour long classes and can read books like i used to :))

A benefit of reading: when you start, you don't want to stop reading! A malefit of reading: YOU DON'T WANT TO STOP READING!!!

I’ve read 21 books this year and am so glad I found your channel today. I love to read!

I loved what you said regarding morally gray characters. Seeing the humanity in them really gives us perspective and I think nowadays, unfortunately, a lot of people lack the ability to see another persons point of view. It's especially prevalent in regards to political stances. Anyway, I'm a young adult trying to get into reading. I was inspired to read the book Dune because the movie recently came out. If I'm being honest with myself, I feel that social media is really shortening my attention span. I'm glad I came across this video.

@scottlang7271

2 жыл бұрын

William, if you are trying to get into reading, can I suggest the Emberverse series by S.M Stirling. It shows you how ordinary people react when everything familiar gets ripped away...and who they become under pressure. I loved it, especially the first two or three books.

Reading is my absolute favorite hobby, I just started reading fantasy and fiction in 2018 and had to push myself really hard at first but Im SOOO happy I did. I can sit and read/listen to any book straight through now and actually LOVE every second of it. I was not a big reader before 2018, and now I have almost 150 books completed on my Goodreads account. I’m obsessed and can’t believe I was missing out on so much fun my entire life!

@Sons_Brad_Dalton

6 ай бұрын

Yes. Understand. I know what you mean. The fun is incredible

This is so interesting! I never would've realized how similar the benefits from reading and learning languages are. Also, the neuroplasticity of adults is so often downplayed. It's never too late to build good habits and reap the rewards.

LOVED your video, Merphy. Entertaining and inspiring. Gratitude!

Love this! Thank you for sharing the importance and joys of reading in what it does upon our health and development.❤

Little fun fact: All the benefits also apply to audio books, even stuff like improved reading accuracy and reading comprehension goes up from listening to audio books.

@iamdivan7368

2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, and attention span goes bye bye

@fizzledimglow3523

2 жыл бұрын

@@iamdivan7368 not necessarily. It's the same concept as listening to music. You can train your attention span if you listen mindfully and with intent.

@barbarasusej

2 жыл бұрын

I love audiobooks, they have helped me a lot learning English!

@Thecatladybooknook_PennyD

2 жыл бұрын

I've found that because I listen to audiobooks a lot more, my attention span for reading a physical book has greatly lessened. I've been forcing myself to read some books without using any audio.

@--Avi--

2 жыл бұрын

@@iamdivan7368 I have ADHD and frequently zone out when reading books. I still do it a lot because I like my own internal narration, but I'm able to focus much more via audio books. I'm also able to multitask. So uh, you're wrong I guess

The level of cerebral activity that is required in reading is higher than just watching shows. Most people would prefer watching lighter or easy-to-digest shows for relaxation or leisure as opposed to reading a book. 🥰🤓😍

I just stumbled upon this on youtube and OMG! I have watched it several times! I used to be a special ed teacher and was always studying brain research (on learning and reading-specifically you mentioned the left temp cortex and scaffolding of ideas). Most recently, (particularly with the pandemic and job changes), I have not read like I used to. You talked about hobbies- and I started reading again recently ...my past hobby. Thanks for getting me thinking and desire to read again! (I subscribed and look forward to hearing more vlogs soon!)

LOVE your analysis! Thank you for sharing your inspirational perspective.😊

I was literally just asking myself this question and then BOOM! This video popped up 😂

All i know is - reading book gives KNOWLEDGE...... And knowledge is LIFE!!

@ArielSubotzky

2 жыл бұрын

"Knowledge is power" - Sir Francis Bacon (allegedly)

@mongoliandeathworm2994

2 жыл бұрын

Knowledge is Power Guard it well

Ich bin verliebt.❤ Thank you very much for this wondersful video, wholesome to see someone so passionately talk about reading and as beautiful as you

As a reader since I was a kid, I find your video spot on, I completely identify myself with this passion, and how it is more important nowadays with the shallowness around us, reading is a catalyst for thinking and as you said it, can make a person see beyond its narrow perspective, our societies needs that more than ever. Beyond the benefits, it is so enjoyable, I hope more people will get into it through your words. Thank you Merphy for your great videos and for your joviality, cheers !

Ok but more seriously, I love this video. I do think that there is a benefit to reading that is often overlooked or at least underplayed. I know that for me, half my family love reading and encourage it, while the other half finds it fine for school and keeping the noisy child quiet (but not if you're reading in public what are you showing off?), but more of a waste of money ("libraries exist it's not like you reread anything" JOKES ON YOU MOM I REREAD 90% OF WHAT I READ BECAUSE I FORGOT IT AHAHA). In terms of it making me (personally) more empathetic, I am mixed on it. I do try to view all characters perspectives and try to understand where they're coming from and why they make the decisions they do. Understanding is not forgiving or excusing and it does help me at least make sense of things people in real life do or say. But whether it makes me more empathetic I'm not entirely sure about and that's mainly because I don't know how much is true empathy or performative on my part. and that's an entirely personal issue that I contemplate a lot. There are times that you have people who are well read but miss the point of books or don't take lessons they learn fully into heart and that is disappointing, but I don't think that's the norm. Anyway this is super rambly and I need to get back to genshin. I mean reading.

@hcstubbs3290

2 жыл бұрын

I think empathy and sympathy get mixed up a lot. I think you're spot on when you say you try to understand characters actions and motivations - that's definitely empathy. But empathy doesn't mean accepting the way others act or sharing their feelings just because you understand them - that's more to do with sympathy. Like you can be very empathetic but lack sympathy and vice versa.

@igor817

2 жыл бұрын

balancing genshin with reading is the perfect world, at the moment i’m more focusing on reading though

@amedeocostalunga7814

2 жыл бұрын

Glad to see someone else addicted to Genshin 😬

@marocat4749

2 жыл бұрын

Beimg empathic probably makes you just understanding more, and not agree and be angry with like people who dehumanize, understanding others and how , empathy isnt tolerance of people being the worst, its just trying to get why and if its. Tolerance only works if intolerance isnt tolerated. And anger sometimes is justifi.ed

@dimanvoltair993

2 жыл бұрын

I love the way you write. It's so funny and interesting.

I only started reading again just recently and my attention span was so small but with some practice, effort and rules in place I've been able to lengthen it and can escape into the book a bit more.

I LOVE the way you speak. Your diction is perfect. Your pronunciation, fluency, voice, clearness, and vocabulary are amazing. I wish I could speak like that.

This video has been my introduction to your channel, and your rhetorical style in tandem with the subject matter is indeed super interesting! While I’m not familiar with manga, I have really enjoyed your perspective and look forward to checking out more of your extensive back catalog as well as future videos, new sub here, yay!

I'm not a native English-speaker, yet I started to learn english because I wanted to read stories in their original language or watch foreigns movies with only english sub available. Now I can understand, speak and write in english pretty well (with tons of grammar and spelling mistakes but hey, it's better than nothing)

@deb7674

2 жыл бұрын

Me too!! Reading in english really helped me to learn the language.

I love how the reason reading improves attention spam is the reason why my mom dislikes fiction or anything that has a narrative. She is always like, I want to read something that would give me the facts right away. She only reads self help because of that and I wish I could change her mind but well. This is a great video. I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump lately and those facts just encourage me to pick up a book right now

@marocat4749

2 жыл бұрын

Odd selfhelp most of the time is not direct. And vague with plattitudes.

@byronviljoen4899

2 жыл бұрын

Self help books put you in a cycle of believing you can magically change your life on a week, giving you a serotonin high, before you slowly come back down to earth and seek out the next one.

As a teacher, I really love your advocacy for reading.I love what you do with this channel. I'm also a young teacher although I sound old lol

This is so true! Thanks for sharing! I was on a roll reading consistently for months. Then I got really busy with school and work. Falling out of the routine I find myself getting easily distracted and hard to focus on assignments, ended up scrolling through social media as an effortless quick escape. Trying to get back into the routine again. I found my writing skills improved as well when I was reading consistently.

I love reading historical fiction and nonfiction and I do agree that it does broaden your perspective.

I've always felt very different from people because of how hyper focused I get with EVERYTHING. People talk about how bored they get, but I could stare at a wall for hours and never get bored just by examining the wall. I hated reading until I was 7, and then became obsessed with it and would spend my entire weekend reading a book or series, and I'd even reread books. I would read everyday for hours, but then high school started and I ended up reading just for classes, though it did heavily slow down in middle school as well. I did write a lot in middle school though, but really only in large bursts. Same with highschool, but that was actually for a project I had in sophomore year honors English for National Novel Writing Month we had to write a novella, like 10,500 words or something, but I could only write at school since my laptop was broken at the time and I was only able to get about 7,000 words or so, but that was fun and was something that pushed me to do something I enjoy. Also last year, Junior year, I took a creative writing class and wrote a lot of things I'm really proud of. So other than some writing and books just for classes I haven't read or even written as much as I want to. Specifically with school I get so drained from school especially since I like to take difficult classes and I get so tired, but I always have so much to do and I feel like I'm not doing enough, but then somehow I get good grades without studying or really trying, but maybe I'm trying and doing more than I think? Part of it might be that I have really good comprehension skills and I am able to just pay attention in class for stuff to pay off, but I kind of don't have good comprehension skills all the time so idk. This is my last year of highschool, so hopefully once it's over or even during this time I can fix some bad habits I have before getting back into school with college. Even though I have an insane amount of focus, I end up using that on things I don't want to be focusing on. I love videogames, but I don't give myself even the time to do that, let alone read, because I'm so focused on youtube videos, though a large portion of the youtube I consume is education in a way, I can't help but want to do other things. KZread is the break, but I need a break FROM the break. I get so absorbed into doodling and end up doing that for 5 hours, when I could of been doing homework, clearing youtube videos from my tabs, playing video games, or even better, reading. I will spend a whole week researching a random topic such as how the different genres of music relate to certain personality traits and I'll take notes on it and record the data I've found for like no reason. My focus on things that even I think is pulling focus away from tasks I want to be doing is at risk for being pulled to something else for a very long time. (This happened with One Piece and I ended up having my focus watching and reading that and only that for two months straight, I couldn't do anything else). I feel like because of the strange way my brain works the biggest step to reading more again is literally just to pick up a book, because the moment I do I know I won't be putting it down, because that's just how I'm wired. I think I'll go and do that. I want to get into the habit of this again. Also, this is just how I do comments; It's impossible for me to make a short comment, I literally don't even know how to I just go on tangents for forever. Also Also, I feel like certain things were unrelated, but this was just kind of the order of the thought processes I had after the video and I just went with it. In a way my focus thing can be attributed to this comment. Oh, another thing about me and comments is I have no idea how to end them. So that's great. Goodbye.

I’m working really hard on changing up a lot of my habits, reading is definitely something I’m trying to do much more often than I currently am. This was very helpful information, I appreciate it!

Thank you for such a an insightful and enlightening video regarding importance of reading books. I am 27 and was finding it hard to inculcate a habit of reading books other then my course books. But the ways you have shared to start reading and the enormous benefits attached to it has surely given immense push to make this a new hobby. Best wishes and Heartfelt Gratitude from India

This is a really interesting topic! I find it amazing how we can get so invested in the stories that we read till the point where it feels real. The book is a window into this otherworld that we can travel to, it makes it truly magical. You talked about the long term affects of people who read a lot, I wonder if some of the similar things would happen to people who write stories or are working on a novel on a regular basis...

I love how passionate you are about reading. I feel like reading is my escape from the day to day stresses. Some times I dive in and forget to come up for air

I totally agree (and have also read from other sources) the things you present here. And I’ve noticed the longer I’ve been out of practice reading as much as I use to, my attention span has become a lot shorter. So, seen that in action. Thanks for the reminder. And yes, so fascinating how easily expanding the mind is, no matter where you start from. Thanks for posting this. Enjoyed it. ✌🏻

Just came across your channel Merphy and loved it! Lots of love from Brazil

This was an excellent video! I love discussions about reading. I can always tell when I’ve spent too much time watching random short videos or scrolling Instagram because I have more difficulty settling into reading. I also find that when I’ve been doing that I have even more difficulty with slower paced fiction. I’ve been scaling back on switching back and forth between things and reading something that is a bit more challenging so that I can rebuild my focus and enjoyment. Thank you for making this.

Wonderful video! Even if I may not need too much convincing with my bookshelf filled to the brim, it's a joy to learn and remember the very real benefits of reading ❤️

I just started watching. This is so interesting. Thank you, girl!

This was a phenomenal explanation I really enjoyed how passionate you were about the topic and I would really appreciate if you didn't even more videos like this this was a phenomenal listen and watch and even though I'm an avid reader and encouraged me and got me more excited about going to do some more reading.

this was a really great watch. i was a frequent reader as a child since my nana raised me to read every day, fell out of reading during high school and just picked it back up around last december and im just in love. its very true though-- its very hard to stay focused at times because of how the internet has affected our brains, and i even catch myself getting distracted easily at times. and sidenote: its harmlessly amusing to me that people think reading is a hobby you dont get anything out of, meanwhile i feel yucky if i play too much video games and dont read because i feel like i got nothing out of it lol! priorities

I was an avid reader growing up but lost that while raising my kids. I have since rediscovered my love for reading (many thanks to you!) and I find that creating a goodreads account has helped me with my goals and accountability. And yes, the joy of a good story can still capture me! 🤗

This is the second time that I am watching this video. It is such a great topic. Thanks a lot!

Lmao 🤣 I know what everyone was thinking. And the fact that you know what I’m saying, shows I’m right… haha.

Hey Merphy! I've been reading a Japanese novel called Kokoro for my university class and one thing I've found I really enjoy is that instead of doing chapters there are pauses in the story. I think for readers that find it difficult to sit down for long periods of time, having a story with pauses instead of chapters makes the book much easier to both pick up and put down. It's interesting because I've never experienced a novel similar to that style before!

My brother thinks "reading make you smarter" is a myth yet he thinks that eating a salad a day will make you healthy even if you eat junk for every other meal and snack.

@Dregaz

2 жыл бұрын

He’s 100% correct on both counts.

@SonofSethoitae

2 ай бұрын

​@@DregazGo troll somewhere else

I’m dyslexic but i adore reading, it will always take me longer to process a book, but dyslexia can come with the ability to visualise in 3D, plus heightened narrative reasoning skills. So although reading doesn’t come easily to me, its so worth the time because what i get to experience if more vivid than any film i could watch. Not that i dont enjoy TV But there are some characters from books that I genuinely look to when I’m struggling. I can drop out into my imagination once I’ve read a book and walk around the scenery. Reading has given me multiple havens through out my life.

This was so inspiring and a really great reminder of the wonderful world of books and reading 🥰

I used to read a lot when I was younger, I stopped for whatever reason (any easier entertainment). About a year ago, my vacation was coming up so I decided to try and read more (due to social distancing, I didn't just want to stay home all day watching movies/playing games), it was the best thing I've done, the changes in my mood and in general were noticeable. I've been reading a lot lately and it's been great. Great video! And yes, this topic is quite interesting!

I find it so interesting too Merphy! It's so cool how reading can be enjoyable and also be so good for our brains :))

I so love reading. It expands my sphere of knowledge, improves vocabulary and makes me happy

When you said that you could understand perfectly what the character was feeling through their own perspective even if it is extremely different than yours, girl, i swear i thought i was the only one that that experienced that kinda vibe, actually feels so amazing feel that u can completely understand their crazy or transtorned mindset without changing yours, reading is magic and that's it 🤩

This is a well dome video. I personally love reading. My mom, my now late Grammy, and my aunt have instilled a love of reading in me since I was a child. Reading has so many benefits for people, and I find it fascinating how many positive attributes reading physical books has. I am an avid reader and I find that I retain information so much better from physical books and notebooks and things. I love having as much empathy as I do, and reading for fun. I try to read at least once a week, if now a few times a night or morning, either before bed, or right when I wake up in the morning. It gives me a better sleep and a better start to my day, personally. This is a well informed, great video. Thank you for spreading the positivity of reading to anyone whom chooses to watch your video. It makes me happy.

Purely anecdotal here but I just had an epiphany. About a year and a half ago, I got SUPER into reading. I always enjoyed it, but it had been awhile since I had read anything. Busted through about 70 books since then and have been loving it. This could be coincidental, but it was only during this time that I managed to quit smoking and lose 60 pounds. Despite previous attempts to do so, in my past lifestyles that did not prioritize reading. Without even realizing it, it has completely changed how I dedicate myself to a complete a goal. And your channel has been a gold mine of recommendations and reviews that have helped me stay interested. So Thank you, Merphy!

Thank you so much for this video. I love to read, and I love finding Booktubers and learning more about how reading affects the brain and reading content! Also, I love your shirt - really cute!

Thank you so much! Definitely encouraged me to keep up daily reading after reading Dune as someone who hasn’t read for a decade since high school.

I started reading for fun around 1st grade (12 years old) and it was funny to have people think I was an A+ student, when I was struggling so hard at school. Now, many years later, reading and books are my everything. I think it is the most beautiful think to be able to read someones dreams and explore their imagination. I have wanted to be a writer and offer my crazy creativity to anyone in need of an escape or just fun. And only recently I told myself to stop worrying about what society wants, what other thinks, and finally start writing!

I've always really liked stories in general (not necessarily just books, but also TV), and I really feel like experiencing the lives of so many different characters really helps me understand people better, especially when I've always been kind of awkward and talking to people is difficult for me lol

Been reading regularly for a year now since being diagnosed with ADHD like heaps of my friends. Mostly been reading medicated but have been trying more often to read un medicated. The other day I was reading infinite jest for 3 straight hours without meds, something I didn’t know I was capable of! Great video

I appreciate you putting this video out there. And YEAH reading is great! ✊

I'm 56 (yeah, I'm old), and I've been an avid reader from an early age. My dad and step-mum used to buy me classic novels for birthday's and at Christmas. I would read with a torch under my covers about Treasure Island or Robinson Crusoe. As I got older I progressed to the likes of Frederick Forsyth. Then it was fantasy, which is still my favourite genre. To walk beside the main protagonist/s and soak in the landscape is just something I find so enjoyable. I also love thrillers and crime.

I struggle sometimes when reading a book because I’m overthinking things or have a look at my phone. I typically lean towards fantasy because of the escapism and I really don’t read contemporary because I find it difficult separating fiction from fact. Also I have definitely discovered with the book Woven in moonlight that cultural books bring us together and we’re more a like than people realise. I loved this video!!

This is so cool, I'm gonna start reading again. I love your channel!

I am suffering from a book hangover right now. I am glad your t shirt has a word for this feeling I have had so often.

I always recommend to people who haven't read a book in a while and struggle to concentrate to try reading an audiobook along with the physical book of their choosing. Often times you'll start to read faster and concentrate better without the audio, but it can be a great way to get immersed in a book and kick off a reading habit! Of course audiobooks, in general, are also great!

I used to read a lot of non-fiction when I was in public school, eons ago. Mostly physics related or stories about the space race etc. I did try getting into fantasy, tried to reading “Robin Hood” but the old language made it hard and so I didn’t really go back. I became an electrician and there didn’t really need to read a much. Most everything is hands on and relayed verbally. Over the years I could feel the mental lag setting. Course this could be from just getting older but I felt it was from a lack of a variety of mental tasks, so I picked up reading and started with Harry Potter. Not that I am a huge fan but with seeing the movies figured it would be easier to visualize the world as I read. Have you ever forgotten to water a plant so that it wilts a bit, then after watering, it begins to perk up and come back to life, well that’s how my brain felt lol. Not that Harry potter books carry the secrets to the universe but reading them I definitely felt my brain walking up, once derelict stations in my mind started to become dusted off and used lol. I moved to to Discworld, almost literally lol, read though them all and a few five times. And now the Stormlight Archives. Reading has definitely helped my brain wake up and got me to gain a hobby I can finish lol.

I love your take on attention span. Subscribed!

I never realized how much. I do enjoy reading. I just didnt know what to turn to. Recently picked up like 6 different series all things im familiar with and at the same time never got book cannons for them. so its be great learning more to the source material over half decent adaptations. Thank you Merphy for what you do with your channel

Q : What reading did to my 🧠BRAIN ? A: I wrote a book, only because reading pushed me to react to what I experienced in those pages. In a nutshell, reading gives you a chance to explore and enjoy the other person's experience which is entirely different from yours.

I definitely find the connectivity thing is true. "All books are one book" is a phrase I heard somewhere, because everything you read starts to connect to everything else. Even when it doesn't look like it. Like your a big fat spider at the centre of a cultural web. Nice video btw. Also when it comes to reading consistency is key. I read In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust. I found myself picking it up and putting it down. Not because it is bad. It is a wonderful book (split into volumes it really is one big book. A bit like Lord of the Rings.) But I found once I said to myself I'll read 20 pages a day. Slow and careful. I got through all of it. And I'm so glad I did. You can read any book if you just consistently put half an hour/an hour aside to read every day. It's just how you ring fence that time.

I followed to transcript and I enjoy reading it also your voice is warming to listen and now that I know this information. I'll continue my journey of self improve of things I really didn't get into until 2023