" I don’t want to approach reading from the viewpoint of that it’s a pleasant adjunct to your life. I want to approach it from the idea that you have to read or you’re going to suffer. There’s a difference to be made – and you can make it if you read with your child. "
- Walter Dean Myers

Reading is often perceived as a leisurely activity that brings pleasure and enrichment to one's life, but Walter Dean Myers challenges this notion by suggesting that reading should be viewed as an essential part of personal growth and development. He emphasizes the importance of making it a priority because neglecting it can have significant negative consequences.

Myers’ statement underscores the profound impact that reading has on shaping individuals' perspectives and capabilities. By highlighting the potential suffering from not engaging in this activity, he aims to stress the critical role literature plays in education and personal evolution. This perspective encourages parents or educators to actively engage children in the habit of reading from a young age, believing it can have transformative effects on their cognitive development, emotional intelligence, and overall life trajectory. It is clear that Myers sees reading not just as an optional pastime but as a fundamental component necessary for living a fulfilling and informed life.

Walter Dean Myers was an influential American author known particularly for his work in young adult literature. His background as both a writer and an advocate for literacy underscores the importance of his viewpoint on reading's essential nature. Throughout his career, he produced numerous books that addressed themes of race, identity, and societal issues, making him a respected voice in discussions about literature and education.