Reading a book can be a great way to expand your knowledge and to explore new perspectives. But it can also be intimidating and time-consuming. That's why it's important to have a good method of reading a book. With that in mind, Mortimer Adler's classic guide, "How To Read a Book", should be a staple book for serious readers.
First published in 1940, How To Read a Book teaches the reader how to get the most out of their reading. Adler divides his book into four different categories: elementary, inspectional, analytical and synthesizing. Each of these approaches has its own merits and allows for varied amounts of time committed to the project. By using his method, readers can develop the skills necessary to turn a book from an overwhelming mountain of text into a useful source of knowledge.
At the start of the book, Adler outlines his definition of "reading". According to him, it isn't enough to merely flip through the pages; instead, the task requires some level of mental effort to properly digest the material. He compares this type of reading to consumption of food and even likens it to lying in bed and dreaming. He argues that understanding a book requires actively engaging it.
After defining reading, Adler moves into the four types of reading required to properly digest a book.
At the bottom of the stack is the "elementary" level of reading. This is a very surface-level approach in which the reader skims through the material quickly. He recommends this quick method for folks just trying to get a better idea of the book's topic.
Next is the "inspectional" kind of reading. This is where readers take their time to more thoroughly understand the book. Here, readers should be reading more carefully and taking notes of key points.
Above the inspectional level is the "analytical" kind of reading. Here, readers zero-in on what is important and actively ask questions about the text. Adler states that this kind of reading is fundamental for understanding any work, even though it takes more effort to comprehend.
The last level of reading is the "synthesizing" variety. This is a more advanced form of reading and requires the reader to use their analytical skills to draw conclusions on a larger scale. Adler argues that this is the most important level of reading in terms of gaining knowledge from a book.
By utilizing his four categories, Adler showing readers a way to get more out of their reading. Whether they need to quickly acquire some knowledge or take a deep dive into a book, Adler's method is one way to make the most of your time. It's an important text for any reader looking to properly digest a meaningful work.
