I really enjoyed this one! I related to Shannon's experiences as a 50 year old who grew up reading as many books as she could get her hands on. Each chapter is named as responses to the title: Why We Read. I love learning about how other people take in words. What do they think about as they read? What do they do to their physical surroundings to enhance the experience? Why do they choose the books they do? This book gave me insight into Reed's reading life with a humorous twist.

"Why we read" is a humorous, biographical read. I enjoyed the fun book-themed breaks between some of the chapters. I loved Reed's ability to convey through personal experiences and opinions the bookish motivations of readers, and her ability to express in words the thoughts and feelings I've had over my lifetime as a reader.
Highly recommended for readers who love books about books and reading.

This latest book by Shannon Reed is all about books, reading and libraries all through her life. It was an intereting book that kept me intrigued. Reed has a hearing imparement so she read everything, everywhere. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance copy in exchange for my honest review. To be published February 2024.

This was a very relatable and thought provoking look at one person’s take on the world of literature (in every aspect-in every stage of life). It took me back to my own feelings while discovering my love of reading as a child and hating reading particular books in school. However, I did love most assigned readings and reports so can’t relate too much to that segment …

Shannon Reed offers readers her idiosyncratic answers (and they are many) as to why we read and why she does. Early on Reed shares that, as someone with a hearing impairment, reading books was a comfortable place to be as there was no need to struggle or answer based on imperfect understanding of what was being said. Reed read everywhere and everything, even a car manual when she forgot (never again!) to have a book with her. Bibliophiles will relate to not ever leaving home without something to read; I know that I did.

This is not an academic treatise but more a series of wide ranging personal thoughts and reflections. Throughout it is clear that Reed loves reading and wants her students and everyone, really, to find joy in a book.

Reed begins by talking about getting her first library card and the many libraries that have played a role in her life. I know two of these personally which made the pages come to life for me. 

Whether it is about reading (or not reading) series, signs you may be a character in a popular children’s book, reading to see ourselves across time, for comfort, fun or shock, or more, it is intriguing to see what the author has to say on a variety of topics.

This book would make a fun gift for a reader…even if that reader means giving a gift to one’s self. Take a look at the back of the book for an exhaustive reading list based on the books mentioned in the text. This will give a bibliophile many ideas for what to try next or to fondly remember books that they have read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Why We Read is less about why WE read and more about why the author reads. I expected more of a rumination on appeal characteristics and why certain genres appeal to certain types of readers. What I found was a very funny, very identifiable rumination on the author's life as a reader. As a scaredy cat myself, I especially enjoyed her section on the horror genre and her obsession/fear of certain books in her school media center as a child. Her poor librarian and her poor parents! Recommended for readers who like to hear why others read, and also as a possible book club selection to spark personal reflection and sharing.

Engaging and quite delightful. A recommended purchase for collections where bookish nonfiction is popular.

I'm not really sure how much I can rave about this book other than say it's a must read for EVERY reader.

If you are a child of the 80/90's you will appreciate it even more! I found myself laughing, crying, and looking around the room to see if the author had been spying on me and I saw so much of myself in her writing.

I wasn't even half way through the book when I was already texting my book loving friend... You NEED this book!!!!

I highly recommend and guarantee I will be ordering a copy as soon as it's available!

Thank you VERY much to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

So, I have been putting off this review, as I have put off finishing this book twice, but time to get this negative review done. I was so disappointed in this book. I love everything to do with reading and books, but not this one. I found the author's writing dull and almost school composition style. Try as I might, it could not hold my interest. I thank NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity of the advance read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the early reader of this book, set to release February 6th, 2024.

I really resonated with Shannon’s recollection of her relationship with books. This is basically a love story to the written word, and I love that. It felt repetitive at times, but I loved the sentiment, from one kid reading underneath a blanket to another.