Buy at least one book a month and read it as a family

I started reading at an early age. My mum was an avid reader and writer. She wrote for international magazines and read a lot. I developed my reading habit because I saw her read. She bought books for me and often encouraged me to read aloud.
My passion for reading took me to my college library and I borrowed every week and got lost in the enchanting world of the writer. Even today, I read when I'm happy, when I'm depressed or when I'm looking for answers. There's always a book by my bedside. I do not stick to a particular genre but anything that triggers a response from within is a must-read. Reading has given me a lot of insight into a lot of issues. Books have made me smile, sometimes even brought tears. But it has been an education all along. Books have, in fact, bonded our family well. I discuss good books with my dad, mum and brother. My brother suggested I read Dan Brown, and I have rarely missed any of his novels since then.
Reading helps an individual grow. It helps to experiment with the real world. The experience deepens understanding of issues and lends clarity. Reading gives you a clear, blue sky in which you may soar higher with your imagination. Readers are never bored because they always have a mystery to solve, a character to understand or a happy ending to witness.
From Macbeth to Go Ask Alice, each book has its own dilemmas to discuss. The characters, vibrant or villainous, also help understand the people around you. The funny part is that I still prefer reading a book..an actual paperback book, not an e-version of it. eBooks do not give the satisfaction of holding a real book or placing a bookmark.
You are what you read. In a day and age when parents worry about children's addiction to smart gadgets, real books can help. Next time when you go out with your family, I suggest buying a book. My children know that every time we come across a bookstore, I will never say no. They enjoy reading, too.
E-books are fine, but I think that parents and children should buy at least one book a month and read, as a family. Share ideas. Discuss the characters. Change the ending. You'll be amazed how much time you will be spending together as a family.
Let's celebrate reading!
The writer is a Khaleej Times reader based in Dubai