World Book Day, is observed on 23rd of April every year. This year was the day was observed. There are avid readers who read all kinds of books, but with change in electronic technology we have e-books taking over traditional paper.
When I was studying in 8th standard my father beckoned me to read, “A Tale of Two Cities,” by Charles Dicken. That was the time when boys of my age had fascination for outdoor activities. For us watching a movie in a cinema hall was taboo. Television had not yet invaded our homes. So I had little choice but to read books. 
Book reading in itself has many advantages. Books enrich your vocabulary. Some books have powerful themes which can mould the thought and leave an imprint on our psyche. Some stimulate and provoke our mind to look for positive side of the life.
Books are your best friends. It is said, “Chose an author, as you choose your friend.” Books keep you away from bad company. Parents have to inculcate the habit of book reading among children. Francis Bacon has rightly observed, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed and few to be chewed and digested.”
One of the valuable cultural institutions i.e. a library for children is nonexistent in our state. Book café is the need of the hour. A book stall with reading hall and a café for book lovers will surely wean away children from gossip and other distractions, and attract them towards knowledge.
Internet has pushed book reading into oblivion. Any sort of information is available at the click of the button. The click of the button, however, cannot provide the solace of reading good books. A truly good book should be read thrice in your lifetime. First, when you read it, second time you pick it up consciously to understand the book, and the third time when you grow old.
One of the books, “Roots” by Alex Hailey has left a lasting impression on my mind. It is a true account of journey of the author to trace his origins, the discrimination which is meted out on the basis of colour, and how humans were sold as slaves in the past. Reading books is a sedentary and solitary pursuit and brings peace and de-stresses you. Read a divine book, which provides guidance for humanity, and understand Quran.

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Lastupdate on : Thu, 26 Apr 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:30:00 GMT
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