LK

I love to read and I have always loved to read. I learned to read at an early age and, according to my parents, I haven’t put down a book since. My insatiable appetite for literature cannot be satisfied. For me, investing myself (and my time) in a book is one of the most rewarding experiences I can have. I consider every book I read an adventure. I am able to escape reality and dive into a different world whether it be to Hogwarts or Gatsby’s East Egg or Holden Caulfield’s New York City. Not only do I find pleasure in reading but also, I am able to see the benefits I have accrued, thanks to the hundreds of books that have come my way. My vocabulary has expanded immensely as has my knowledge on a wide (and random) range of topics.
Unfortunately, I believe that the English curriculum in Lower Merion has not accomplished what it set forth to do. It kills the desire to read in many students due to inane class discussion and over analyzing “themes, symbols, and motifs.” We have learned to robotically produce a 5-paragraph essay with a 3-part thesis. Books read in school become dull and unexciting, thus we lose the message the author intended. Despite all of this, I still love to read. I consider myself extremely lucky that my love for reading has not been destroyed.