Fatma
Books are a powerful commodity; they have a melodic music-like character that draws readers into a world of imagination and fascination. Written words put readers in whirlwind of thoughts and questions; it stimulates one’s disposition to know more and dive into the art with all emotional and mindful senses. The Turkish Writer Elif Shafak once stated, “Books change us. Books save us. I know this because it happened to me. Books saved me. So, I do believe through stories we can learn to change, we can learn to empathize and be more connected with the universe and with humanity”. Her words display how reading one book might amend people’s lives, or at the very least kindle their minds. I have come to understand life better through her book “The Forty Rules of Love” – it encouraged me to view my life events from a new window.
Books change us. Books save us. I know this because it happened to me. Books saved me. So, I do believe through stories we can learn to change, we can learn to empathize and be more connected with the universe and with humanity.
Elif Shafak
Reading facilitates the improvement of one’s critical mind. Beside the general result of providing a satisfying enjoyment, it provides that sense of belonging somewhere in ideas and it certainly spur changes in individuals’ intellect. Moreover, great literature has a strong power to strengthen social cohesions between authors and readers; we find solace in written experiences and escapism in described cultures and lands on paper surfaces. With each book we read, we gain an understanding, a perspective on people and the world. So, find your desired literature and opt for a journey of an aspiring art of words.
Lyndsey
Reading was a very big part of my childhood that I largely owe to my library assistant mum and my incredibly well read dad. I grew up with The Hobbit as a bedtime story and Saturday mornings spent roaming the local libraries, leaving with a tower of books taller than my twelve-year-old self.
For me, reading has always been the best means of distraction. If I ever find myself stressed, sad or very bored, then I always turn to books. They are the ideal form of escapism, a way to transport yourself into a new and exciting world, where your mundane issues no longer matter. I have found that time rarely moves faster than when you are engrossed in a good book. Hours feel like minutes as you desperately try to devour it and savour it at the same time.
Trying to pick my favourite book is difficult but one that always has and always will stand out for me is Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. The book gracefully tackles important issues such as race and prejudice and teaches its reader the power of courage and standing up for what you believe in. I think the sign of a truly good book is one where you struggle to express just how much it means to you.
Emma
Books have always been an escape for me. While I was growing up, I dealt with many mental health issues. Things started going wrong after I turned ten. Family illness, divorce, and moving all took its toll on my younger self. I became a book nerd. My teenage years were lonely, and I would go to the library once a week, checking out five books at a time and finishing them all before the next time I went. Literary characters were my friends when I had no others. I dove into fictional worlds when I did not want to stay in my reality. I still use books to cope, to relate, to feel less alone. When faced with a new difficulty, I can always find a book about someone who has been through the same and came out the other side. When I’m stressed, I can always calm myself down by opening up my current read. It is a way to process my feelings, to find solutions to problems. It is a hand to hold when I’m alone.
For Ringwood Interns, a book is a comforting friend. Through reading, they have found joy and company in relatable plots or characters. In a world of complications and hardship, a book can offer solace and resolution. So what about you, reader, out there: what do books mean to you?