What Reading Means to Us
Reading is many things at once: a refuge, a mirror, a doorway, and a quiet kind of joy. Across the Goldsboro Books team, books are not just something we enjoy, but something that shapes how we think, feel, and move through the world.
For Chiara (Senior Bookseller, London):
“Reading for me is a form of relaxation, it is something that I associate with happiness. Throughout school and then university, I never really had time to read for pleasure even though I’ve always been an avid reader when the chance arose. I like how reading can be many different things all at once; it be a form of escapism, a form of self-discovery, a form of self – reflection.
Reading, especially fiction, can be adjusted to your mood. Had a bad day at work? Read a cozy crime or a light heart rom-com novel. Fancy reading something more challenging, read a 16 book long fantasy series. There really is a genre for everyone for every occasion of life."
This idea of perspective is echoed by Belle (Bookseller Admin Support, London) who sees reading as a powerful creative and intellectual space.
“Reading has always been a creative outlet for me. Beyond entertainment, books invite me to engage creatively with ideas, characters and worlds that extend far beyond my own experiences.
One of the most rewarding aspects of delving into a great book is discovering perspective. Whether this is your own or through a character, reading offers you the chance to access unfamiliar worlds, cultures, emotions and ways of thinking beyond your own. In doing so, reading encourages freedom of thought and challenges assumptions and preconceived notions rather than reinforcing them.
To me, books provide an indispensable space for self-discovery. As a child and still as an adult, reading informs, challenges and defines my understanding of both myself and others.
There is a line in Harry Potter that reads “Words are our most inexhaustible source of magic.” It is a statement that I feel perfectly sums up the power of storytelling and how it continues to educate, inspire and connect those who read and listen."
Emily (Goldsboro Events Manager & DHH Literary Agent) describes reading simply, and beautifully, as escape:
"Put simply, it’s an escape. Not necessarily from real life or anything “bad”; more in the sense that it allows me to see the world a different way and understand different perspectives / experiences. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I just need to dive in to bed with snacks and a good book (Freida McFadden works a treat for me pretty much every time if I need a quick fix). Reading has shaped the way I approach things - both good and tricky - in my every day life. I reference wise characters, I’ve often tried to recreate recipes or foods I’ve found in books and rather than buy me flowers or chocolates, my husband built me a library in our house as a gift. I cannot think of a better way to be told someone loves you. Making space for the things that bring you joy. Without books, I’d be lost. And to that end, without authors, I wouldn’t have a job. I’m grateful every day for them."
For Lizzie (Capital Crime Festival Director), reading is both comfort and reset.
“I'm happiest when I am immersed in a really great book. It balances me out and resets me if I'm stressed, down or anxious. For me, it's pure escapism and therapy! If I'm in a bad mood, it's usually because I haven't read in a while - fortunately for me, and those around me, I get to read lots of excellent books for 'work'!"
Taken together, these reflections show that reading is never just one thing. It’s personal, adaptable, and deeply human. It helps us rest, question, imagine, and connect. And in all its forms, it continues to be something we return to again and again, whether that be for joy, for clarity, and for ourselves.
What Reading Means to You
We want to hear from you - tell us what reading means to you in the comments below (and we might even feature your answer in future blogs/newsletters).
There are no wrong answers.
