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A third of Americans say they're reading fewer books
As the summer reading season begins in earnest, a third of Americans say they're reading fewer books for personal enjoyment than they did 10 years ago — a decline that cuts across age and education levels.
TL;DR
- One-third of Americans report reading fewer books for pleasure than 10 years ago.
- Reasons for reduced reading include lack of time, too many distractions, and perceived shorter attention spans.
- Alternative activities include watching movies/TV, social media, and gaming.
- Physical activities are also more common for about one-third of people.
- While print remains popular, voracious readers often prefer digital formats.
- Recommendations from friends/family are key; younger readers use social media and influencers.
- Fiction is more popular than nonfiction, driven by a preference for entertainment, relaxation, and good stories.
- Mysteries are the top fiction genre, followed by science fiction and fantasy.
- History is the top nonfiction choice for men, while women prefer religion/philosophy or self-help/wellness.
- About one-third read six or more books annually, and 12% read over 20.
- Younger adults read similar numbers to older adults, and women read more than men.