Often when I run across a good novel, or even after I've written an interesting piece, myself; I'll offer the stories or summaries to my teenagers Usually, their first response is, "Do I have to read it?" And many times, I will reply, "No, you don't have to read it, but I bet you'll find it interesting."

While time has evolved, kids and adults alike, are less inclined to check into local libraries for literary enjoyment. As a stark awakening, I find that most children eagerly seek other forms of entertainment in the forms of multimedia such as video games, cable television, film and yes - the Internet, too. While movies, TV, and the Worldwide Web are phenomenal means of artistic and informational conveyance, they do not adequately serve the human imagination.

My first real interest into in-depth novels began when my 5th grade teacher, Mr. Drozdowski introduced our class to William Shakespeare's play, MacBeth. I found Shakepeare's works intriguing and viewed his literature as a renewed breath in poetical, literary expressionism. I further immersed myself in other literature like the Nancy Drew series, Jack London's "Call of the Wild," and Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo."

When we pick up a book, we actively engage and submerse ourselves in the story's plot. Books allow us to conjure the mind's unlimited imagination. When we read a book, it enables us to become creative in thought, as we hold complete power as to what the imagination's eye sees. Whether it's an evil-looking, Cruella DeVille-type, Lady Macbeth; or as in Hans Christian Andersen's, 'The Little Mermaid,' we could invision an impeccable beauty with long, flowing aquamarine hair. The mind's eye is infinite.

Today, we virtually have the world at our fingertips. If you are ready to dive into fantasy, sci-fi, drama, philosophy, heroism, suspense, mystery or whatever interests you, there is a world of literature that will not only open your eyes, but will pull you into its characters, its sorrows and laughter...and sometimes, it may even make you believe in fairytales!

If you haven't done so already, visit your local library or bookstore and get ready for the thrill of your life! It's waiting for you now.

Do I have to Read it?
by C. Bailey-Lloyd