Did you know that children’s books have, on average, 50% more rare words than adult prime-time television programs? Texts at higher levels offer even higher percentages of rare words to challenge and engage your brain.

If your resolution for 2016 is to improve your mind and your writing, the solution may be sitting on a shelf next to you.

Research shows that reading improves your vocabulary and provides numerous other mental and emotional benefits:

• Knowledge of new subjects
• Stress reduction
• Improved sleep
• Memory improvement, including reducing or slowing the effects of dementia
• Improved concentration
• Better analytical skills

And, of course, one of the most direct benefits of reading is improvement in writing!

So when it’s time to do something good for you, make it easy: pick up a book!