All articles tagged with #reading
An outbreak of meningococcal meningitis in Berkshire has killed one student and left two others ill, with cases linked to Reading; UKHSA says the risk to the wider public remains low, close contacts are being given antibiotics, and vaccination reminders are issued.
Across the country, reading test scores are falling, but some schools report gains after adopting phonics-based instruction and stronger early-literacy supports.
National data show reading and math lag behind pre-pandemic levels, but several Pennsylvania districts—including West Allegheny—are showing growth in both subjects through full-day pre-K, early-literacy emphasis, regular screening, and targeted interventions, with state efforts to adopt the science of reading; progress is uneven and chronic absenteeism remains a challenge.
A Swedish study of over 20,000 adults aged 35–64 found that mentally active sedentary activities (such as reading, solving puzzles, or learning a new skill) were associated with a lower risk of developing dementia, while mentally passive sitting (e.g., watching TV) showed no protective effect and may increase risk. Replacing passive sitting with mentally engaging activities or light physical activity could modestly reduce dementia risk, though the study is observational and cannot prove causation; replication is needed before guiding guidelines.
Neuroscience suggests reading before bed actively engages the brain, boosting language connectivity and even leaving ‘shadow activity’ into the next morning, while watching TV delivers passively processed content that can reduce language skills and impair sleep. Over weeks and months, regular reading strengthens neural networks tied to language, memory, empathy, and cognitive control, whereas late-night screen use can hinder sleep quality and cognitive function. The practical takeaway: swap 10 minutes of screen time for reading to foster calmer sleep and long-term brain benefits.
In a Sunday Book Review interview, Sam Heughan says the Outlander finale will surprise Diana Gabaldon’s fans and that the cast had to create their own ending, while he reflects on writing five books during the series (including the Clanlands titles) and shares his reading habits: he avoids horror and audiobooks, prefers non-fiction and travel titles, and keeps positive, mindset-focused books on his nightstand. He cites favorites from Shakespeare to Val McDermid, and even jokes about hosting a literary dinner with Shakespeare, Buzz Aldrin, Brian Cox, and McDermid. He’s traveling for premieres and plan to watch the finale with castmates and fans alike.
A study found that reading a book at night improves sleep for more people than going straight to bed, with a December 2019 online trial showing 42% of readers reported better sleep versus 28% of nonreaders. Brain scans suggested lasting connectivity changes from nightly reading, and experts say short, consistent 15–20 minute sessions can calm the mind, support memory and cognitive reserve, and even enhance social skills.
A life-and-style piece listing 12 practical ways to read more, from using a Kindle and Libby to subscribe plans, a reading journal, and Goodreads challenges, to joining book clubs, attending events, building a cozy reading space, and planning monthly reading lists—designed to help busy readers hit big goals (the author notes finishing about 50 books a year).
Oprah Winfrey continues her long-standing tradition of selecting impactful books for her 2025 book club, with titles spanning various genres and authors, including her first repeat pick and a book inspired by a celebrity tattoo.
Actor Steven Ogg, known for his role as Trevor in GTA 5, expresses no excitement for GTA 6, stating he's not a gamer and prefers reading books like Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment. He has never played GTA 5 and has limited interest in video games, despite his involvement in the franchise.
12th-grade student scores in math and reading have hit new lows on national tests, with declines predating the pandemic and continuing, highlighting ongoing challenges in American education.
Fan fiction is significantly influencing publishing and reading, with works inspired by popular books and media, including Pulitzer-winning adaptations, expanding the scope of storytelling and cultural influence, and gaining recognition from traditional publishers.
AI is transforming how people engage with reading, offering shortcuts like summaries and analyses that may reduce motivation to read for pleasure or personal growth, while also contributing to a decline in reading habits across all age groups, potentially impacting cognitive development and the enjoyment of literature.
Amazon has expanded its Colorsoft Kindle line with two new models, the 16GB Kindle Colorsoft and Kids Edition, both featuring faster page turns, customizable backgrounds, and vibrant color screens, encouraging users to read hundreds more pages. These models aim to compete more effectively with other color e-readers like Kobo, offering improved features such as USB-C charging and longer battery life.
Tottenham Hotspur started their preseason with a 2-0 win over Reading, showcasing tactical shifts to a 4-2-3-1 formation, notable player performances including debutant Kudus and Vuskovic, and emphasizing attacking crosses and squad rotation under new coach Thomas Frank.