I have been nicknamed ‘bookworm’ by my friends. Initially, I used to get hurt when anyone called me by this name, but it doesn’t matter anymore because I am proud of this habit of mine. Reading comes naturally to me, almost like breathing.

Books have been my companion since early days. During my childhood I used to read a lot of English and Hindi comics. The bravery of Batman, the guile of Superman and the humour of Bankelal always enchanted me and transported me to giddy heights. I also remember reading some storybooks and novels in order to impress my friends.

Today, I am a compulsive reader and absorb both fiction and non-fiction with equal delight. Reading is not necessarily an insular activity for me, though it is usually the way I choose to spend my lonely hours. Reading provides knowledge not only about people and world, but also, most importantly, about my own self.

Reading is not a very expensive habit. The books provide wisdom and enhance man’s ability to think wisely. Fast paced reading assists my passion for reading. Once I start reading books, I don’t stop until somebody disturbs me. Because of my habit, I now have to wear spectacles. I suppose the power of the eyes has been weakened but the power of intellect has increased significantly.

Because of my habit of collecting books, I have quite a few number of books in my room. The wise Cicero had once said, “A room without books is like a body without a soul” and I always complement this fact. My collection ranges from history, literature, and sports to some issues on women, which my friends are very fond of. All the books in my little library are priceless treasures and I am extremely proud of my growing collection.

People come and go but books remain forever. Books are a means through which civilisations, religions and traditions can be preserved and conserved. Books are conveyers of human emotions as well. Some books have made me smile, laugh, cry but some have also made me very angry. Despite my being a bookworm, my professors wonder why I obtain such low scores in exams. The fact is that I love books, but only those ones that have nothing to do with my academic course.