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OpinionUnited States

The Joy of Being Read To: Why it Matters

Exploring the unique allure of being read to and the magic it brings to our lives.

By Melissa KirschSource: nytimes.com1 min read

In brief

Rediscover the beauty of shared storytelling and the emotional depth it can offer through both the spoken word and audiobooks.

In a world where reading often means diving into a book alone, the ancient joy of being read to remains a treasure. Whether it's during childhood storytime or through cozy evenings with an audiobook, there’s something uniquely special about sharing words aloud. A recent exploration into "Harvard Sentences," crafted for testing speech technologies, reveals not just their phonetic charm but an inherent poetry in basic phrases. When someone reads to you, that act transforms communication into a shared experience, fostering connection and creativity. As adults, many of us lose the habit of reading aloud, shifting instead to a solitary reading culture. However, rediscovering this practice—whether through narrating tales, listening together, or simply engaging with audiobooks—can invite warmth and intimacy back into our routines. It becomes more than just reciting words; it's about co-discovery and mutual appreciation of art. In today's digital age, options for being read to are plentiful, from audiobooks to recorded readings by various voices and even AI narrations. Embracing this art of shared reading rejuvenates the soul, allowing for moments of joy, reflection, and an escape from everyday life. So why not indulge? Kick back, find a cozy corner, and let another voice weave stories into your world.

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