How To Read A Book

How to Read a Book by Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren is a definitive guide that transforms how readers approach any written material—from light fiction to complex philosophical texts. First published in 1940 and revised in 1972, How to Read a Book has stood the test of time as a classic in the field of learning and education.

This book categorizes reading into four levels: Elementary, Inspectional, Analytical, and Syntopical. Adler and Van Doren teach you how to engage with texts actively, ask the right questions, and extract deeper understanding. Whether you're reading for information or enlightenment, How to Read a Book offers the tools to elevate your comprehension and retention.

Ideal for students, educators, professionals, and curious minds, How to Read a Book emphasizes that effective reading is not a passive activity—it’s a skill that must be developed intentionally. The authors also show how reading different genres (history, science, philosophy) requires different techniques.

More than just a manual, How to Read a Book is a philosophical and practical journey into the heart of knowledge. If you're looking to improve your reading habits, think more critically, and gain more value from what you read, this book is an indispensable resource.