I used to be embarrassed about being a slow reader, my whole life I chalked it up to my dyslexia and ADHD making it hard for me to focus entirely on the writing. And then, at the ripe old age of 29, I stumbled on the shitshow that is Booktok and I realized "oh, most of yall aren't reading to fully understand and appreciate every little detail."
If you're a speed reader that's great, wonderful talent to have. Also if you are just a fast reader, I'm not taking any credit from you, I'm talking about the people that say they read for fun but then also admit to skipping entire paragraphs or just reading the dialogue.
Even now where most of my "reading" is via audio books, I cannot tell you how any times I pause to process my thoughts and rewind because I feel like I missed something. If my mind wants to keep drifting off to "what am I making for dinner" I will re-read entire paragraphs sometimes 5 or 6 times, because I want to fully absorb the information!
I have no deadlines! I am reading entirely for fun against the constraints of my high school teachers. I CAN take as long as I want, and absorb every detail on the first read, it's okay! And with the exception of Holly Black's books, I don't usually re read things (it's been 13 years since I read Tithe, rereading it now). I put so much effort into absorbing the story the first time around, that I don't usually find new information on my second or 3rd reading.
So yeah, It will take me a month or 2 to finish a book but by the end of it, I have picked up on every little detail the author snuck in there. It's not because I am not invested but quite the opposite, I am so invested that if the book is not getting my full attention, I will put it down until it does.
All to say: there is no right way to enjoy a book, fast-readers and slow-readers, we are all valid. Read the way you enjoy, and don't feel discouraged because you think you are slower than others. ❤️
