Why Many Adults Don't Read Books Anymore?

Many of my colleagues and friends don't read books. They see me using an e-reader and buy one too, but soon stop using it. It's sad, but true: most adults today can't finish a book. The reading culture is fading in our society.

In my circle—colleagues, friends, and family—almost no one reads. I enjoy reading e-books on my e-reader, so people ask me about it and buy one too. But after a while, they abandon it.

Books aren't the only source of knowledge, and they don't have all the answers to life's problems. But for me, books are comforting. They help me gain knowledge, feel emotions, and see life from different angles.

I'm very busy with work and family, so I read slowly—onbly 2-3 books a month. I read what I like and don't care what others are reading. I'm also okay with stopping a book if it doesn't suit me. When i'm tired or on a long drive, I switch to audiobooks.

Living slowly with knowledge, emotions, and the lives of others helps me expand my mind and soul.

A reader with the nickname anh.np12 commented on this, saying that most adults today lack the patience to finish a book. This comment was made after a post about Kỳ Duyên, who struggled with a book-themed presentation at Miss Universe Vietnam 2024.

In the contest, she admitted, "I haven't finished a book because I'm a pratical person. I like learning through images and sounds."

The topic if reading books sparked many comments on Vnexpress. Another reader, Hai Nguyen, believes not reading books doesn't greatly affect success in a specific job. However, most knowledge is still in books, and not reading can't be excused by lack of time or interest.

He said, "I think you can be good at a job without reading books. For example, an electrician can be skilled without reading. They can also be wealthy and have good character. But when facing social issues, the difference is clear between those who read and those who don't. Some people speak well but lack depth and insight.

So, saying 'I can work and be rich without reading' might be true, but I disagree that you can be knowledgeable without reading. Most knowledge is in books. Today, if you prefer images and sounds, there are picture books and audiobooks. So, not reading any book is because you don't like them, not for any other reason".

Credit: Vnexpress. Đồng nghiệp, bạn bè của tôi hầu như không ai đọc sách