Reading: an essential pastime for the French
Reading occupies a special place in the lives of the 50% of French people who say they read daily . Much more than a simple hobby, it is often considered an essential, enriching and essential activity. In this article, we will explore the importance of reading for the French, reading habits, current trends and the impacts of reading on daily life.
The importance of reading for the French
For centuries, France has had a rich literary tradition. Authors such as Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust and Simone de Beauvoir have left their mark on the history of world literature. This literary tradition is reflected in the value that the French place on reading. According to a study by the Observatoire de la lecture publique, 79% of French people read at least one book per year, and 48% read more than five. And this has only increased considerably since the rise of literature on the networks, particularly thanksto the "Booktok" phenomenon . Reading is seen not only as a source of entertainment but also as a means of cultural and personal enrichment.
Reading habits
Preferences by age and gender
The reading habits of the French vary by age, gender and education level. Young adults (18-24 years old) often prefer contemporary fiction genres, romance, comics and manga, while older adults (50 years old and over) tend towards historical novels, detective novels, biographies and classic literature. Women generally read more than men, with a marked preference for novels, self-help books and magazines.
The role of libraries and bookstores
Public libraries play a crucial role in facilitating access to reading for all. In 2023, there were more than 16,000 libraries in France, offering a wide range of books, magazines and digital resources. In addition, independent bookstores, despite competition from online giants, continue to thrive by offering personalized advice and organizing literary events.
Current trends
The rise of digital reading
Digital reading has seen a significant increase in recent years. E-readers and reading apps on smartphones and tablets are making books more accessible than ever. As of 2023, nearly 30% of French readers report reading digital books. The benefits of digital reading include portability, accessibility, and often lower cost.
Book clubs and literary events
At the same time, there is a renewed interest in book clubs and literary events , such as festivals and book fairs. These gatherings offer readers the opportunity to share their experiences, discover new authors and participate in enriching discussions.
The impacts of reading on daily life
Reading has many positive effects on the daily lives of the French. It improves language skills, enriches vocabulary and strengthens language understanding. In addition, it stimulates creativity and imagination, especially in children and adolescents.
Reading is also beneficial for mental health. It can reduce stress, improve concentration and provide a welcome escape from the pressures of everyday life. For older adults, reading is a great way to maintain cognitive health and combat social isolation.
Reading holds a precious place in the daily lives of the French. It is a source of pleasure, knowledge and personal development. Despite the challenges posed by digitalization and modern distractions, the French continue to cherish reading and consider it an essential activity. Whether through printed or digital books, the passion for reading remains a constant in the lives of the French, enriching their daily lives and nourishing their minds. It is in this logic that our3-in-1 Lizia reading accessory is essential for all physical book lovers who have now made reading an everyday hobby. So what are you waiting for to do the same?
