Chapter 1: The Evolution of My Reading Journey

Reflecting on my early reading experiences, I can confidently say my journey has been anything but smooth. As a toddler, I eagerly pleaded with my mother to teach me the art of reading. This thirst for knowledge led me to devour encyclopedias, specialized magazines, and various history and biology texts.

During my teenage years, I ventured deeper into fiction. My time in high school, enriched by a philology minor, allowed me to immerse myself in a diverse array of literature. However, up until my university days, my reading habits were inconsistent at best. I often found myself reading only a few pages at a time, struggling to complete books, and frequently taking long breaks from reading altogether.

Despite my enthusiasm for books, I often lacked the right environment to indulge in them. The arrival of my younger brother at the age of 12 marked a shift in my household dynamics, turning quiet moments into rare occurrences. The chaos and energy of family life made it difficult to find solitude with a book in hand. While holidays offered brief respites, my school days were packed with academic demands that left little room for personal time.

However, university became a turning point. It was there that I experienced a series of enlightening moments that transformed me into a proficient reader. I learned to balance my academic responsibilities, part-time job, social life, and hobbies, all while nurturing my growing love for literature.

Section 1.1: The Misconception About Technology and Books

In recent years, a narrative has emerged suggesting that technology is detrimental to the world of reading. I would like to challenge this perspective.

While it's true that the surge in digital book consumption has influenced traditional publishing, it also signifies an increased interest in literature, knowledge, and storytelling. This evolution opens up new avenues for authors and publishers, ultimately benefiting the literary world. For me, technology has revitalized my reading passion.

Chapter 2: Harnessing Technology to Enhance Reading

Today, I often write about my minimal physical book collection and my strategies for reading more efficiently. Thanks to technology, I can now read up to 12 books each month. My Kindle has become an indispensable companion, and audiobooks have transformed my reading habits.

Recently, I invested in premium noise-canceling headphones, allowing me to absorb two and a half lengthy audiobooks in just four days. I utilize them while on the go, unwinding before bed, tackling household chores, or engaging in repetitive tasks at work. These headphones have been a game-changer, providing the tranquility I need to focus on listening, especially as someone sensitive to noise.

Furthermore, beyond digital reading formats, I leverage technology to enhance my self-awareness as a reader. Apps like StoryGraph, Goodreads, and Bookly enable me to monitor my reading habits and gain intriguing insights into my preferences and the emotional connections I have with different genres.

The first video, "How Is Tech Changing the Way We Read?" explores the impact of modern technology on reading behaviors and preferences.

In addition, I utilize Serial Reader for a daily dose of classics, Tapas for graphic novels, and Scribd for audiobooks. For more on how I integrate apps into my reading routine, check out my article:

How to Turn Your Phone into Your Number One Reading Asset

From apps, lists, and reminders, the dreaded time-stealing phone can be a bookworm’s best friend.

The second video, "Becoming a Better Reader," provides tips and strategies for improving reading skills through technological tools and resources.