A Plea for Reading and Better Writing

Forty percent of Americans never read a book. Some are illiterate, others consumed by making ends meet, and some just don't read. 

Why read? Reading changes us, rewires our brains. Think of the brain as muscle; reading works it. Reading enhances curiosity and empathy. 

Reading facilitates better decision-making, self-awareness, and even better pay. 

But you must also write. You may not have time to read the entirety of Steven King's "On Writing." But read the capsule of the second section about the nuts and bolts. Become a better storyteller as you write your narrative. Empower yourself with verbs, better dialogue, and a willingness to cut and revise revision.