I have always loved reading not only because it is fun, but because I could step into another world. Whether it is fighting off dragons or entering a new realm, I knew I could count on my imagination to take me to places only one could dream of. Imagination is an important part of life not only for children but also for adults.
Fostering 
Imagination
Reading is one of the best ways to foster imagination. The more we read, the better we can build up and expand our knowledge. We can be open to new ideas and have an understanding of new things. Reading helps us practice imagination by letting the words describe a certain image while the reader manipulates the picture in the mind. This practice strengthens the mind as it acts like a muscle. But what are the benefits of imagination?
Benefits of Imagination
Imagination has many benefits. It encourages creativity, which brings about new ideas. It also takes a huge part in innovation. Without imagination, people wouldn’t be able to come up with new inventions and new ideas that help advance society. It also pushes discovery and understanding. Martha C. Pennington and Robert P. Waxler state in “Why Reading Books Still Matters: The Power of Literature in Digital Times”, “If imagination and magical thinking connected to reason spur discovery, innovation, and new understandings, it can be maintained that literature has a key role in both developing and engaging imaginative and magical thinking”. This shows that reading is a key part of enhancing imaginative thinking, which can lead to innovation and understanding.
To the Magical Future
Unfortunately, not everyone can acquire the many benefits of reading. The World Literacy Foundation provides help to children that cannot read and have limited or no access to books. They believe in literacy as the very base of education and lifelong learning. In addition to enhancing imagination, reading has so many benefits and can provide people with many opportunities. Together, we can make a difference to improve the future of many children around the world through the power of literacy. Discover how you can get involved here.
Written by: Alexandra Akinchina
Source: Pennington, Martha, and Robert Waxler. Why Reading Books Still Matters: The Power of Literature in Digital Times. Routledge, 2017.
