Whats the point of reading books? (they don't make you smarter)?

Reading fiction books does make you smarter - it increases your vocabulary, expands your knowledge of language and grammar, and (if the story's captivating enough) encourages the use of your imagination. Fiction can also build on your knowledge of all sorts of things - the sciences, history, government, life skills, etc. It just depends on what you're reading. Not all non-fiction is boring, either -- textbooks (which most people do consider boring) are only a small genre of non-fiction literature. Another thing I'd like to say: I don't think I'd get *nearly* as much enjoyment out of a one-page summary of, say, East of Eden than I'd get by reading the book. It's a terrific novel that not even a 50-page essay could cover. Would you settle for watching a 2-minute movie trailer instead of going to see the whole film? I think you simply need to find a book that interests you. Of course, you're completely entitled to your opinion and if you just hate books, then you just hate books, and there's not much anyone can do about that. =)

Box, I've learned more from fiction than I would have dreamed. I have basic knowledge in all kinds of things because I read books which used them as part of a story. I've got more than a smattering of medical knowledge, some legal know-how, familiarity with police procedure, the low-down on swordfighting, and idea how the record industry works, and much, much more, all while being thoroughly entertained. If you think books suck, you're reading the wrong books. Edit your question by sharing your age or reading level and your interests, and maybe we can recommend some that will blow you away and change your mind.

Don't make you smarter? What makes you qualified to say that? Just because they're fictional doesn't mean that they don't build logical, analytical, and creative skills.

Books stimulate your brain no matter what kind, and its very relaxing as well (or at least to me).

Reading fictional books increase your awareness about different situations, cultures, life problems, traditions, and ideas. Wikipedia is easy, yes, but it is written very simply. The idea of reading is to expand your analytical skills and express yourself. Answer mine: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080819142814AASKXDA

I am really sorry you feel that way. You will miss out on a lot of great stuff by not reading. Reading fiction widens your horizons. They make you think about life in different ways. Reading is also relaxing. Reading about a character is like meeting a new person--exciting and refreshing. One of my favorite books, A Thousand Splendid Suns, taught me in a fun way about the middle east. It opened my eyes. It got me thinking in ways I never would have if I had not read it. It also enhances your comprehension skills, and your vocabulary. It gives you a better understanding of not only grammer and other basic things you need to know in life, but you can also learn about yourself. Reading can help you learn your likes and dislikes, which will help you later on in life.

books and literature are a way to expand your thinking. you do learn when reading fiction, just because it is made up does not mean that you won't learn anything. you ca learn about different places, languages, vocabulary, you name it. and correction, they do make you smarter. they increase your vocabulary and and your reading and comprehension skills. If a book is fiction, it only means that the plot and the characters and the story line is made-up. the setting can be real, the things people learn can be real. you learn many things when you read books. you can learn just as much by reading a fictional book than by reading a non fictional book.

Everyone has their own view on reading, and you made it clear that you don't like to read. That's absolutely fine, and you are certainly entitled to your opinion, but I will answer your question by explaining why I actually disagree with you... First of all, one main reason that reading can make you 'smarter' is because of vocabulary, spelling, grammar, etc. When a person reads, no matter whether it's fiction, non-fiction, an article, or anything, that person is exposed to many new and different words and writing styles. I believe it has been studied and proven that, for the most part, people (kids, etc.) who read often have better/more advanced vocabulary, a better ability to spell, and a better understanding of grammar and such. For that reason, books are often read and discussed in English classes in schools - kids can use books to further their vocab and to improve their spelling and grammar. As for non-fiction books, they are of course more apt to make a person 'smarter' in the sense that a person can better understand real life events. By reading autobiographies and historical accounts, a person can learn about historical and current issues and people. In addition to that, though, I believe a person's intelligence also includes their ability to use their imagination and to think outside of the box. So, books that are fiction are just as able to make a person 'smarter.' By reading books that may not be based on true events, a person's mind is forced to think abstractly and such, and that of course is a great thing for your mind. So while sci-fi and fantasy books may not be terribly factual, they make a person think and make a person use their imagination, which is an important part of a person's brain/mind. On top of that, all books are filled with themes and underlying messages, and understanding and analyzing those themes is also something that expands a person's mental capacity. And as for the enjoyment aspect of reading - reading for some people is like watching TV or a movie or playing a sport for another person. Reading is an escape and an adventure. Reading can be enjoyable and relaxing because through reading you can temporarily remove yourself from what is happening around you. Following characters on epic and/or fun quests and such is simply an enjoyable hobby for some people... Best wishes!

Well smart people like reading books. Its like saying people who play video games do nothing all day.(kinda) Its kinda like watching TV in your head,(im sure you've heard that before). You can imagine the characters how ever you want, and its relaxing. Its not to get smart or to expand your knowledge in any way at all. Sometimes books are just addicting, you want to know what happens next. Once you start reading a book you can't put that book down. Me, I don't read many books unless i find them very interesting. I don't really know how to explain why people read books, but most books aren't boring, they are relaxing and exciting. I hope I explained in a non-confusing way. (but if i were reading this i would be confused)