With the rise of fast content, the art of reading continues to dwindle. Unlike social media’s numbing and engaging content that aims to maximize engagement, reading pushes depth and reflection. When the two compete to be entertainment, it’s inevitable that reading almost always loses. 

Alarmingly, according to federal data, only 14% of 13 year olds read daily for fun. Additionally Forbes reports less than 11% of high school students read at least 6 books in the past year ‘for fun’.

Students associate reading with homework: A dreadful chore their language arts teacher pushes on them to teach the importance of ethos, pathos, logos. Outside of these assigned chores, students rarely read. Who voluntarily does the dishes if they’re already cleaned and put away? 

However, reading provides skills Gen Z cares about, they just aren’t aware of it! 

It’s a common misconception to believe that reading is outdated in a technology-driven world. In reality, reading strengthens many of the same skills students actively try to improve: communication, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. Books force readers to sit with ideas rather than swipe past them, encouraging patience and deeper understanding. 

Unlike short-form content, reading builds focus. When scrolling, attention resets every few seconds. When reading, the brain must sustain concentration, imagine scenes, interpret meaning, and follow complex ideas. Over time, this strengthens attention span – something  many students feel slipping away. 

Reading also improves how students express themselves. The more students read, the more natural writing and speaking become. Vocabulary expands, arguments become clearer, and ideas are easier to articulate. These skills extend far beyond English class, shaping college applications, job interviews, and everyday conversations. 

Most importantly, reading offers mental rest. While social media feels relaxing, it often leaves people overstimulated and drained. Reading slows the mind instead of flooding it, providing a rare form of entertainment that doesn’t demand constant reaction. 

Gen Z doesn’t dislike reading – it dislikes being forced to read material that feels disconnected from real life. When students are given freedom to choose books that reflect their interests and experiences, reading becomes less of a task and more of a personal escape. 

In a world obsessed with speed, reading remains one of the few activities that values depth. And that depth still matters.