I have never read a book

[Neverread]

I started to read but by the time I have got from the top of the page to the bottom I have forgotten what I have read . It's like I'm reading the words but not taking anything in.

I can read easy stuff like a short article on a news site things on MN posts on FB etc but I can't read a book. I don't want to do the listening books I just don't want the sound in my ears.

I do have learning difficulties so maybe it's linked to that. It's not the end of the world but it would be nice to read one.

Have you ever listened to an audio book?

It's it something you could work up to by starting with easy children's books?

What about starting with a collection of short stories? Anything here take your fancy?

www.amazon.co.uk/s?ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_3_13&crid=3VOZJR6OCXL32&sprefix=short+stories&k=short+stories+for+adults&tag=mumsnetforu03-21

Are there any TV series or films you like that are based on books? Maybe it would be easier if you already were familiar with the characters and story.

I think it's true that you have to build up stamina with reading.

Is it fiction that you're struggling to focus on? Is there a particular book you'd really like to read?

@PeonyTime

What about starting with a collection of short stories? Anything here take your fancy?

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I'm not really sure if there's any point of o forget what I have read on the first page ? I'm going to look at your link though

Yeah like a pp said, try some short stories

Or maybe try reading an autobiography of someone famous you're really interested in

@GreekTragedy

Have you ever listened to an audio book?

She says in the OP she doesn't want to do that.

I'm the same. I tried for ages. Then after about 6 months stopping I thought I'd treat my self to a new book. I got to the final chapter before realising I'd already read it. Not one point prior to that had I remembered. And I'd only ever read about 4 books prior that one being one of them!

There was a small section in my local library, I think they are called Easy Reads or something like that. They are short books for adults (so crime, romance etc) but with bigger print and not too long or complicated. I read a couple as it was authors I liked anyway.

Something like that might suit you?

There are also some young adult/teen books that are surprisingly good.

Its hard to get started. I used to read loads but now I can't get to the point where I'm engrossed enough for it to feel easy and enjoyable.

Is there a genre you might enjoy? Maybe someone here can recommend a book. Crime, zombies, romance? I love lots of plot to keep me turning pages.

Maybe aim to read a page a night for a month? You say you can't remember what you've read by the end of the page. You might need to reread the page.

It would be good to get into reading. Its awesome and I really miss it. I might follow my own advice about a page a day.

It's very easy to not retain anything if it's not something you're interested in.

I agree with a pp, an autobiography of somebody you're really interested in might be a good idea.

Do you remember reading as a kid? At school or for GCSEs?

Did you have to finish a book at school ever? Just curious as we have to read several for gcse thought I’ve always read anyway .

It must feel hard work to lots of people including those with dyslexia so you must be by no means alone.

So enjoy film and television, instead. For some people with specific reading difficulties, books are just not a pleasurable pass time. Nothing wrong with that.

What learning difficulties do you have?

GreekTragedy
Have you ever listened to an audio book?
She says in the OP she doesn't want to do that.

Oh the irony! Sorry OP didn't read your opening post properly. Thanks for pointing it out yourstandingonmyneck

What about graphic novels? You could look back over the page to get a sense of what is happening. I have found similar if I am stressed or more frequently with someone talking fairly fast or without warning, my brain can't seem to process it and switches off

@MissKeithsNeice

Do you remember reading as a kid? At school or for GCSEs?

There were no GCSE at my school. I did not not gp to msin stream school and no alternative was offered.

@Farwest

So enjoy film and television, instead. For some people with specific reading difficulties, books are just not a pleasurable pass time. Nothing wrong with that.

Maybe your right. I don't think I would loose sleep over it or anything but when I see piles of books in my friends house I kind if think all them books and I have never read one .

Are you OK following the plot of films?
Is it just books? Could it be because you read very slowly as you are spelling out the words ? If that's the case then I imagine that with practice you may improve your reading speed .

Do you ever buy magazines with fiction in?

Don't worry about it. There are so many interesting adaptations from books now, so many documentaries too. Enjoy those and don't stress about books.

@GreekTragedy

Have you ever listened to an audio book?

She literally said she doesn't want to.

My Dad has never read a book. He clearly has undiagnosed ADHD and his brain just can't focus on books. He can read short newspaper and magazine articles, but has never been able to manage a book.

There are probably more people like you than you think.