Writers as Readers

When I read a book, it is very important I am comfortable. I like reading in a comfortable position that won't strain my neck. I will often ready in my bed, leaning on pillows and warm under blankets. I also need silence in order to read. I am very easily distracted so noise is frusterating for me when I am trying to digest a plot. I must also have good lighting. I have a really hard time reading in dim lights and they cause me to be drowsy.
The genre I enjoy the most is realistic fiction. I enjoy a book more if I can relate the characters emotions and situations. Realistic plots do a better job at reaching my feelings and drawing my into the plot. I start to feel like I know the characters personally and I am deeply affected by what they go through. I do not connect with other genres as well because I find them hard to relate to and cheesy.
One of my best memories connected with reading is when I finished my first chapter book in which was not Junie B Jones or Captain Underpants. The first book I finished cover to cover all on my own was Jane in Bloom. At the time I had decided reading wasn't for me. I found it boring and hard to invest in. I am more of an artistic person so I didn't spend much time with books. At first I dreaded reading the book. But as I began to read it , I was hooked. I cried, laughed, cried and laughed some more. I became attached to the characters and wouldn't put the book down. Once I finished the book, I was so proud of myself for actually staying engaged in it and finishing it all the way through. I realized then I loved reading, I just had to find the right material for me to read.
The first teacher who introduced me to reading was my first grade teacher, Mrs. Zinter. She would read Junie B Jones to us every day. She had such animation in her voice and made the books come to life. Because of her, I still to this day own every book in the series.
I think reading can really improve your writing. Being exposed to new ideas, vocabulary, and grammatical structure can teach you thinks you don't even realize you're learning. Reading is a great way to boost your writing abilities and expose yourself to a wide variety of literature and writing styles/techniques.