Not too long ago, a study was published confirming “happiness spreads readily through social networks of family members, friends and neighbors.” Further, it described how a person’s emotional state depended not only on actions and choices made, but also on actions and choices other people made—even persons unknown. People who are happy tend to live longer. In essence, the study “concluded happiness is like a contagious disease.” Unfortunately, other studies concluded the same for obesity and smoking: they, too, spread among groups of friends and relatives. An interesting finding was that happiness was more contagious face-to-face—not via the Internet or cell phone. The study postulated the reason was that “happy people spread their good fortune directly by being generous with time and money,” enhancing social bonds so “successful groups” were formed.
Why write about happiness being like a contagious disease? Well, it is a wonderful notion to consider. We all want to be happy. But, this is also an example of the benefits of reading. Seeing others around you read, will encourage you to read. Readers spread their knowledge gained from reading, that creates an environment of creative thinking, and, there you go: a chain reaction of the most positive kind, enhancing social bonds and potentially even society. To me, this potential is exciting!
Leveled Reader’s team of professionals and experts have selected books to stimulate young minds to encourage reading in such a way that it enhances their current reading program in an easy, yet challenging and satisfying way. Let Lily help you not only find the book to start your young reader on the road to success within their family and community, but also find some books on being happy, too.
Start the contagion, let your child see you read, get your child reading, and let Leveled Reader help.
Quote: “Books are the legacies that a great genius leaves to mankind, which are delivered down from generation to generation, as presents to the posterity of those who are yet unborn.” Inscription over the Thebes Library door.
