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Why books still rock in the 2020’s.

In the buzzing digital age, where screens reign supreme and a non-stop stream of information is served to us in bite-sized nuggets, one might wonder: Are books an endangered species in literary form? With a new form of digital content to feed us around every corner, is sitting down with a good book a thing of the past? Well, dear reader, grab a comfy seat and settle in while I argue the importance of reading in the modern age.

Flexing the brain muscles

In a world of swipe-left and scroll-right, books demand a different kind of commitment. They're like the personal trainers of the brain, encouraging deep reading and flexing those intellectual muscles. Unlike the click-happy chaos of online reading, books make you sit down, focus, and actually think. It's like a gym session for your brain, promoting critical thinking in a world that sometimes feels like it's running on meme logic.

Building empathy and understanding

Books have the power to transport readers to worlds they might never otherwise encounter. Through the perspectives of diverse characters and settings, books promote empathy and understanding. Reading allows you to step into the shoes of others, creating a sense of connection with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. It’s like a literary therapy session that broadens your emotional horizons. These broadened horizons will in turn be crucial for building a more compassionate and harmonious society. So do your part in changing the world and read a book!

Books as cultural artifacts

Books serve as cultural artifacts that preserve the collective wisdom, history, and imagination of humanity. Libraries and bookstores are not just storages of information; they are guardians of our cultural heritage. Wander into a library or a bookstore, and you're not just stepping into a collection of words; you're entering a gallery of cultural artifacts. The cover art, the smell of ink, the font choice — it's like an aesthetic time capsule that doesn't just tell a story but flaunts its style. Books aren't just nerdy; they're the trendsetters of the cultural catwalk.

Surviving the tech storm

After the last few arguments, I can almost hear that brain of yours crackling. “But why would I need an actual book, I can just buy an e-reader right?” And while everyone is entitled to their own preferences, I am here to argue that technology is not the most reliable option. In the grand tech opera, where data breaches are the villains and glitches are the unexpected plot twists, books stand resilient. No need for updates, no fear of crashing. A well-preserved book can weather the tech storms and remain a reliable source of knowledge. In a world where digital is sometimes as durable as tissue paper, books are the sturdy oaks of the information forest.

The joy of reading

Finally, we can not forget the experience and joy that good books can bring you. Picture this: You, a cozy nook and a book. The weight of the paper, the whispering sound of pages turning — it's a tactile dance that e-books can't quite replicate. Sure, digital texts are convenient, but they lack that tangible magic that comes with holding a physical book. It's not just reading; it's a full-on sensory experience, like a literary spa day for your imagination.

Wrapping It Up

So, in the grand debate about the indispensability of books, the verdict is clear: Books are not just surviving; they're thriving. Beyond being vessels of information, they are the cultural artifacts, the brain trainers, and the empathy boosters we need. While the digital world offers convenience, it can't replace the charm and enduring magic that physical books bring to the table. In a world that's often too serious, books are here to remind us that learning and laughter can go hand in hand. And the best thing is, there are options for everyone! Waterstones has an astounding collection of book with varying genres, topics and storylines. Whether you are a long-time reader or this article has just convinced you to go pick up your first book, Waterstones is here to help you find the story that will make you forget your screens and experience all the benefits of reading in the digital age!