Why Reading Matters and Why We Should Write About It Honestly

Reading books is something I care about a lot. In today’s world, where most people would rather scroll on TikTok or binge watch shows, it feels like books are being forgotten. But I think that writing about reading in a real and honest way can actually challenge that. When someone shares how a book changed their life or helped them see the world differently, it can start real conversations about things that matter, like focus, imagination, or even mental health.

When it comes to writing, I think it’s more important to be honest than to follow the usual expectations. We learn how to write essays in a certain format and tone in school, and that’s important. But the writing that sticks with people is the kind that comes from the heart. If you’re just writing to get a good grade or to sound a certain way, you’re not really saying anything new. But when you write what you truly think or feel, people notice. It means more.

To be honest, I haven’t always been real in my writing. There were times I wrote what I thought teachers wanted to hear instead of what I actually believed. Especially in assignments about books, I would Google the “right” interpretation instead of sharing how I really felt. I did it because I didn’t want to be wrong or put too much attention on what I had to say. But now I realize that being authentic can be a good thing.

Moving forward, I want to be more genuine in my writing. One way I can do that is by starting with my true thoughts before worrying about how they sound. I can ask myself, “If no one else was going to read this, what would I say?” Writing just for myself at first, like in a journal, could help me get more comfortable being honest.

Being yourself in your writing helps you communicate better. People connect with your voice, not just your ideas. If I write about how a book helped me through something difficult, or how a story made me see the world differently, that will matter more than just summarizing the plot or using fancy words.

Authenticity is really important when writing news, opinion pieces, or reflections. Readers want to trust that the writer means what they say. Whether I’m writing about books, current events, or personal experiences, being honest helps people feel what I’m saying, not just read it.

To make sure my writing reflects who I really am, I can check in with myself while writing. Am I saying what I believe, or just repeating what I think sounds right? Taking a break and coming back to my writing with fresh eyes can help me stay true to myself.

One time, I wrote about a book that helped me understand loneliness. I didn’t want to talk about it out loud, but writing made it easier. Putting my feelings into words helped me understand them, and when I shared it, someone told me they felt the same way. That’s when I realized how powerful writing can be.

I truly believe writing has the power to change minds and inspire people. When someone reads something real, they relate to it. And when they relate to it, they start to care. That’s how change begins, with honest stories and people brave enough to tell them.

Interested? Find more by Miranda here!

ABOUT MIRANDA

Miranda is a 10th grade student at Centner Academy. She is passionate about the things she chooses to do, and she strives for personal growth. She is interested in writing because she finds it is a free way to express her thoughts, and it is a way to stay informed of what is going on in the world. She is a first time journalist, and is looking forward to writing articles for the pollinator post.