8 Realistic Reasons Why Reading Old Books is Good
There are many people who prefer new books to old ones, because they think that new books are better. But the fact is, the opposite is true, more often than not.
Penlighten Staff
Last Updated: Mar 26, 2018
They Have Stood the Test of Time
Ideas come and go, but only the best ideas are the ones that stand out. According to C.S. Lewis, as a writer, he would rather want a reader to read an old book than a new one as the new one is still under trial and the reader is amateur to judge it. His thoughts - "Often it cannot be fully understood without the knowledge of a good many other modern books. If you join at eleven o'clock a conversation which began at eight you will often not see the real bearing of what is said".
They Help Us Open Up More to Different Perspectives
Each generation has its own perspectives, preconceptions, and different ways of talking to the world. When we read old books, it helps us gain new perspectives and new ways to look at things, acting like a time machine which transports us to that period, and we could apply that newly gained 'Point of View' of that time in our current situation.
They are Cheaper
Old books usually cost lesser in comparison, and at times are available even for free at book stores, thrift shops, or book fairs.
Quality is Better
The title is self-explanatory. What makes a book a classic? If a book is being read even 50 years after it was published, then it's a classic, and surely good.
They Help You Know Your Past
Classic novels teach a lot about a particular previous time in history while we are enjoying present times.
Easily Available
We have a better chance of finding old classics in a library, rather than new ones with waiting lists for them.
They Don't Discriminate Against Age
Old books are for everyone and not for a particular age group. You need not be a child to enjoy books written for kids. Cinderella can still be your favorite nighttime read as an adult.
They Smell So Good
The smell of old books is just too good. Don't you just love the almondy vanilla-like smell as you bury your nose into the pages of an old classic?
