I was browsing Goodreads when I noticed this quote by Daniel Pennac. This inspired me to write this post. When I liked this quote before, I thought it was really interesting and on-the-spot (if I say so myself). It really applies to what I believe reading should be. I think I might have abused some of these rights for my own selfish benefit.

The right not to read

Yes! I’m quite frustrated when people ask me why I don’t read certain books. I don’t want to read TFIOS, for example, because I knew from my gut that I wouldn’t like it. Or I’m very reluctant to read classics because it’s not really something I particularly enjoy. First and foremost, I read for fun, that’s my goal. It’s a hobby I’m very passionate about. That being said, everyone has their own reasons for reading certain things, which influences what they, well, don’t read.  Elizabeth wrote a very interesting post about it; you guys should check it out.

The right to skip pages

I skip/skim pages when events feel like filler. Those events were neither built up nor significant in the grand scheme of things. Most of them are mundane activities whose sole purpose is to expand the story. What warrants it? I’m not sure, but I know one if I read one.

Also, if it’s really tedious and I just want to get to the good parts already, I skip! Yes, I skip, and I’m not ashamed to admit that!

The right to not finish

You guys know that some books are not meant to be finished. It sucks, you’re frustrated, and you want to cut all that negative turmoil building inside of you immediately. The best way is to stop. It’s not my kind of book, and I don’t want to waste my time on it (more than I already have).

The right to reread

You guys know that I love re-reading. I might have explained that in full deets. Some books deserve to be read more than once! Or sometimes three!
The right to read anything

I’m a full-pledge adult, but I love reading books marketed for teens. Is that wrong? No. And you shouldn’t be embarrassed to read anything you damn well want. Why do people try to restrict their options? I will never limit myself or my reading choices. If I find something I know I’ll like, even if it’s a children’s book, I will still read it. Reading anything I fancy is my prerogative.

The right to escapism

Yep! Yep! Yep! I love drowning in stories, places, and worlds that I know I will never experience. It also calms me down when anxiety kicks in. HAHA To be able to escape and see before me the lives of these characters that I have grown to love is an exhilarating feeling. Sometimes you need an escape, and reading is one of the best choices out there!

The right to read anywhere.

OK, so I don’t usually read anywhere. Any noise places sour my mood for some reading. The same goes to places I feel uncomfortable with. But we’re allowed to read in any place, not just in the comfort of our homes or the library. Take your books to the beach! To road trips! Anywhere!

The right to browse.

I browse. I love browsing (but don’t open it if it’s still sealed). I want to at least try it before buying it. I am cheap; I only buy things that I know I really love. A little sneak peek won’t hurt!

he right to read out loud.

I’m not really one who reads out loud. My grandma reads out loud, not loud as in yelling, but I can hear her murmur some words. If I were her, I’d be exhausted by page 3. But hey, if you’re comfortable reading out loud, then go ahead as long as you’re not disturbing anyone.

The right to not defend your tastes.

In connection with number 5, we really don’t need to defend our tastes. Period! I’m tired of hearing people belittle adults who enjoy reading YA. We’re allowed to read anything, and from those choices, you mold some sort of preference. It is something you personally achieve, so detractors shouldn’t have the right to demean me/us. So yes, I don’t own their explanation, and neither do you!

So how about you? Are you aware of the reader’s bill of rights? Which of these do you often use? Whats is your take on it? Would you mind sharing your thoughts with me?