Question:
My parents don't like me reading!?
Mrs. Crosby 87!
2007-07-09 13:41:49 UTC
Alright... my mom and dad arent together anymore but no matter whos house I'm at I always get riddiculed for reading!

I normally get yelled at for reading too much but sometimes they see the cover and think it's bad/stupid or whatever.

I love history and that is normally what i read (history was my best class, too. english second) but right now i am reading new moon by stephanie meyer. dad rolled his eyes because he saw the cover... a tulip.

what should i do????
77 answers:
KidCuervo
2007-07-09 13:44:07 UTC
Read Farenheit 451 and compare your parents to the Firemen.
ginandchthonic
2007-07-09 14:05:31 UTC
Keep reading! I was always called nerdy or a bookworm by my whole family, so was my husband. My mom's favorite way of punishing me was taking away my books! If your parents aren't readers they won't get it, some people who don't read seem threatened by those who read a lot.



Try dropping hints that kids who read make better grades and are more likely to attend college. Pick up or print out literature about the positive effects of reading and leave it where they are bound to see it. If you have a teacher who makes positive comments about your reading work those compliments into your conversation with your parents. "Yeah, Mr Soandso said I must have gotten that A on my test because I read so much!" Recommend a book you really love to the parent you think would be likely to read it, maybe they will be more understanding after you share that with them. Try reading a book you know one of your parents like or that is about a subject they like and discussing it with them.



Try using a stretchy, reusable fabric book cover over your books to hide the cover but tell them it's to keep the book from damage if they ask. (I do that when I think someone might object to or feel uncomfortable about a book I'm reading in public.) If none of that works then just hang in there, your parents will find other things to harass you about as time goes on!
Adel
2007-07-09 13:48:22 UTC
Keep up the good work! Reading is very important, and as you already know, it's a great hobby too.



Your dad might have a point there though, about what you are focusing your reading on. Try to diversify. Read different things, like National Geographic. Try reading John Grisham. Try Popular Science. Try those cool science fiction books. Just try to broaded what you read. Go to the library and pick up a couple of non-fiction books too, like biographies and social issues books. Try reading about religions and cultures, and other stuff too.



Reading is a lot better for you than just watching TV or chatting aimlessly or lots of other things. Tell your parents that they should join you in reading - maybe they can suggest a good book to you.
amy c
2007-07-17 11:07:37 UTC
This is strange. I have never heard of parnets yelling at their kids for reading. Anyways just keep reading I read the first book, Twilight, and that was really good. Now I'm just looking for New Moon. So just keep reading. Dont pay attention to what they say about your reading. They should be happy that your even reading.
michelebaruch
2007-07-16 18:09:06 UTC
Hi Submarine girl.



It is possible that the reason they ridicule you for reading is not so much the fact that your are. It might be that they want to spend more time with you when you are at their house.



What I would suggest is that you spend more quality time with them, and when they are doing their thing you do your thing. Which is reading.



It is hard shuffling back and forth to each parent. Is it possible that you do so much reading to hide communicating from them. Try communicating, enjoying your mom, and dad when you are with them. Share your thoughts, and feelings with them. I am sure if you do that they will not mind when you do read your history books.



Good luck to you.
Thursday, 12/31/2009 is our day!
2007-07-09 14:17:21 UTC
Tell your parents no matter what you are reading it is always better to read than to play video games or be into street gangs. You just want to make sure you are not reading so much that you aren't going outside to give your body it's daily exercise. You are doing the right thing when you read though, I personally am very proud of you for your efforts. Keep up the good work.
Sunny Days
2007-07-09 13:51:36 UTC
I'm 42 and I am the same way. My husband thinks its a waste of time and my reading list is pretty sophisticated. I just have to do it because it's part of me that I really enjoy. Who cares what they think, that is *if* they think at all. You will get better grades and be generally more knowledgeable, don't let anyone stop you. Do your parents read? Are they educated? Maybe they are afraid you are going to surpass them in life.



You know reading is so great, did you know that Thomas Edison was kicked out of school because of severe ADHD and his mom taught him how to read and then he went on and read every book in the library. Stay curious, a learn everything you can, and prepare to live a really amazing life because you are a knowledgable person!!!
Michael B
2007-07-09 13:50:43 UTC
The ones who say keep on reading are absolutely right. I can't imagine what your parents think they are playing at; most people would give four teeth to get their kids reading enthusiatically. Apart from being the key to great English grades, it opens whole new worlds to you. Once you can read confidently, you can educate yourself, train yourself, amuse yourself for almost no money.



Have you asked your parents why they object? It might be a good conversation to have.



There aren't many questions on which you can simply back up a kid against the parents - but this is one. You're right. They're wrong. We're all on your side; it's no contest. Go for it. You're in the right, in every sense.
Thia
2007-07-10 01:58:36 UTC
I've just read your details, and you sound fantastic! It makes me wonder if you were swapped at birth, and some nice encouraging parents have a monster for a daughter!



Carry on just as you are, I love history as well as reading, and I was lucky enough that were always books in the house and I could read what I wanted, as well recieving books for presents.



You sound like a real life Matilda (the Roald Dahl book). I hope you have as happy an ending. The powers would be cool as well! xx
chromacosmic
2007-07-09 13:53:18 UTC
Maybe your parents are worried that you don't want to be with them/talk to them. Maybe they think that is why you read all of the time. They might be jealous or childish and think that maybe you don't hide your nose in a book at the other parent's house but do when you are with them. Just because they might be grown-up doesn't guarantee that they will act like adults. Try talking with them ask them about their lives, boost their egos a little and then let them know that you are going to go and read for a bit. Maybe even tell them how much you enjoy reading at their place. I love to read too; don't ever stop!!
sashtou
2007-07-10 03:50:20 UTC
Adsvice: 'Cary on reading.'



History, as a subject, is like the trunk of a tree. From it there are branches that go everywhere - politics, medicine, religion, science, military, sociology and so on, and with all of the interactions between these branches that create causes and effects ~ and so creating even further History.



Always, the reasons for Why the situation is as it is, is because of the past (= History), and having an understanding (at least) of it helps a hell of a lot.



'Warning.' Learn to make covers for your books ~ camouflage them from 'Enemy Recognition.'



Good luck.

Sash.
EchoTango
2007-07-12 15:12:39 UTC
Unfortunately we can't choose our parents. But there is no excuse for their ignorance and lack of education. They are worried that you will out grow them. But you already have. You don't say how old you are but you seem very mature. Just put the book down and tell them what you are reading maybe sharing it with them will help. Most people that annoy people that read are just jealous. Keep up with the books, find a quiet place, you have a Friend for life and reading is the basis of all knowledge.
2007-07-09 13:51:30 UTC
KEEP ON READING!

sometimes 'Parents just don't understand!'

Just smile alot when they yell at you, try not to make smart remarks back to them.

Most parents would love to have a kid that reads!

Maybe they're just concerned 'cause they think you should be more sociable with other people, or should do more to help out around the house. Personally, I would rather have my kid read than help around the house, but actually, every member of a family should pull their fair share.

You know in your heart that reading alot is not bad/stupid.

:)

maybe I'll get that book you mentioned if you say it is a good one.
AUNTY EM
2007-07-09 13:49:54 UTC
You go right ahead and read - its a wonderful form of escapism, improves concentration, spelling, communication skills, mastery of English and its informative and fun. No-one should be criticised for doing something so wonderful. If you were my kid, I would be buying you tons of books and curling up on the sofa end to end reading side by side. Some parents! I stuggle to get my son to read and he could really do with it. They obviously don't appreciate the advantages of reading and maybe feel a bit threatened because you are probably highly intelligent and likely to succeed academically - perhaps they didn't do as well as you? Anyway, enjoy it. Its a gift.
Alyson
2007-07-09 13:48:19 UTC
Wow, really? I like to read too, and my parents like that. You should tell them to never judge a book by it's cover and also reading makes you have an open-mind and helps you in some school subjects like LA, and history(since that is what you usually read about).



You should also keep on reading even if your parents disagree. If it is what you like, and you are doing good in school at the same time, nothing is wrong with reading. Keep up yoru hobby and sson enough your parents will learn to accept it.
Ms Mat Urity
2007-07-09 13:49:10 UTC
Ask them why? So long as you are getting regular exercise and fresh air you couldn't ask for a better hobby. Also next time they attend a parents evening at your school get your English and History teacher to detail the benefits of a well read scholar, obviously they are not aware of these.
Italia 28
2007-07-09 13:47:17 UTC
I guess why care? I mean your parents don't sound extremely brilliant to me by criticizing you for reading. I mean I guess I could see it if you were obsessed with comic books, but there is a lot worse you could be doing. Next time they pick at you, shut your book and tell them you are going to go hang out with (whoever Jane) she normally hooks you up with your cigarettes, or your booze, or she robbed the convenient store down the road, what ever you think will hit home the best. Then maybe they will realize there are worse things you could be doing.
phoebe r
2007-07-09 13:48:34 UTC
my parents are like that too, i ace my classes but read through them because of boredom. twilight and new moon are both great books (i just finished new moon not to long ago). since when do kids listen to parents anyways. reading is good for your intelligence. if your dad has a problem with the cover, then cover it with newspaper wrapping (im assuming you're a boy if your dad acted this way). after you finish, i recently read a great book called elsewhere by gabrielle zevin if you havent read it yet, it gives you a new perspective on everything(i assume you like reading, but you know what they say about assuming...)



good luck.
2007-07-09 13:46:32 UTC
Do absolutely nothing. If you like reading-keep doing it, we need more people like that these days. If they want to reccommend something it would be okay if you are interested in it. Sometimes adults are frustrated with day to day life and they don't stop and think about their child that could be a whole lot worse than sitting and reading. Keep reading-no matter what anyone says.
2007-07-09 13:46:18 UTC
don't mean to be rude... but your parents are probably poor lower class... they don't understand the importance of reading.. just keep reading and doing well in school no matter what they say.. and you'll have a much better life because of it.. be best thing in the world you can be is educated, so you're better than most people.. good job, enjoy your books!!
*~*RaChAel*~*
2007-07-09 14:13:57 UTC
I would just ignore them. I get ridiculed as well when I do well in school or when I get caught reading. I love history as well! I love english, geography, religious studies, etc. I just love reading and I like school. I always get ridicules for things like this, but do I care what people think of me? No. I don't. In the end, it's the smart people who get the good stuff and the morons end up being well hated and, well, being stupid. Just ignore it.
Shawny™
2007-07-09 13:45:58 UTC
You should continue to read, it sounds like your passion. Talk to your parents and try to tell them how much you like reading and what it means to you. It's usually the other way around, Parents actually want their kids to read and kids won't read. Make sure you are also involved with family matters, friends, and other fun things in life.
l z
2007-07-09 13:45:09 UTC
Keep reading, don't be discouraged! Tell them it's your right to gain an education and that reading is an essential part of this. But try to be nice about it :o) Politeness will win you more favour than getting annoyed and yelling.
bibbittybobittyboo
2007-07-09 13:47:43 UTC
tell them this, can they read??? you read because you enjoy learning new things, it will help you find your dreams, not only in your future, ie if you want to go to college or university, but will encourage your imagination to grow.

DO NOT feel riddiculed for reading, tell them they are stupid for not wanting to find out more, that just the cover.

whatever you do, ignore your family, and continue to read...do what you like doing best, let your mum and dad to do what they like doin best....watching tv?
darkangelz01
2007-07-09 13:46:18 UTC
I would say... if you love reading, don't give it up. I get yelled at for not reading enough... and sometimes I get scolded for reading too much...



But I think of reading as making a new journey of myself, of putting myself somewhere except here.



Your parents don't rule what you do, so if you feel like reading, go for it!
wonkyfella
2007-07-09 13:47:11 UTC
Good on you! Keep reading. There is an old saying...'Readers are leaders', and this is very true. Read for fun, and read to learn. One day they'll be amazed at how well you are doing in life, and then you can roll your eyes and laugh at them.
laurenhonish
2007-07-09 13:46:09 UTC
When I first read this I thought they didn't want you reading like books about witchcraft.



They don't want you reading at all.



1. Your parents are dumb, and therefore want you to be dumb too



2. Because they aren't together anymore they think your reading is a type of coping machinism that'll make you anti-social



3. They aren't together anymore and feel guilty about it. Maybe they think that you are distancing yourself from them because you're upset. And they feel bad because of that because they want to hang out with you.



4. Your dad was attacked by tulips as a small child and he has repressive memories about all tulips. He thinks their evil.
Daniel
2007-07-09 13:46:02 UTC
Im jelous that you can read a good book. I just don't have the patience for it.



I think if you get lots of good reaction on this question, just show it to your parents. Maybe than they realise that reading is very good for your education.



Good luck
::EllesMommy::
2007-07-09 13:49:53 UTC
hahaha a tulip, thats the only reason

dont sweat it, that is you, reading brings you to a different place and brings you peace, to go to a whole different demension..

tell them it helps you with your vocab and it expands your mind!

another good thing to tell them if there pissing you off just say it helps me coup with your divorce and theyl shut right up LOL

my mom reads books ALL the time, have you hurd of Janet evontavige (i dnt know hoe to sepll her last name) but she is really good..

iv never really hurd of your situation besides matilda (the movie)



well when ever it comes up again blame it on them with something clever like wel if your house wasnt so boring then ...

LOL



but then again you shouldnt need an excuse
krinkn
2007-07-09 13:46:55 UTC
Ignore them and keep reading.



Reading is a wonderful, enriching thing to do. School is easier if you enjoy reading and generally your writing is better. Whenever you are bored you can step into another world.
2007-07-09 13:45:37 UTC
Tell them not to be angry just because you don't have the same interests as them. At least you know how to read and are doing something educational and constructive. Cheese and rice what's wrong with people today.
2007-07-09 13:49:47 UTC
parents huh?

never happy.

they'd moan if you watched too much telly, stayed out late,

listened to loud music, etc etc.

my best advice is stick a post-it note on the front of the book you're reading with a polite message.

" i like to read, would you rather i take drugs " ?
lily-of-the-valley
2007-07-09 13:48:02 UTC
good lord, you poor thing to have parents who act this way! ignore them, honey. reading and travel are the best things for becoming an informed,imaginative, intelligent and well-rounded person. read read read then read some more!
2007-07-13 08:57:26 UTC
That is ridiculous. Reading is helpful in many ways.It can help comprehension, imagination, and memory. Just tell your parents that reading is entertaining to you and tell them all the upsides to it. Yet, if they still don't listen, still read but cut back a little.
paris_kitties_pink
2007-07-09 13:54:30 UTC
Maybe you could try reading in secret. Or you could ask your mom and dad why they riddicle you reading, and then find a point where both you and your parents agree.
2007-07-11 05:03:21 UTC
Question is what do they want you to do instead?Try and compromise, maybe they miss you and want to bond with you. Otherwise read in your bedroom and invest in a torch if necessary and read under the covers.
HAPI
2007-07-09 13:47:39 UTC
I would read in your room and if you have a lock on the door then I would use it.There is nothing wrong was reading as it helps to keep your brain young and active.
Forever England
2007-07-09 13:46:51 UTC
Carry on reading, do what you enjoy. Sound to me like you are going to turn out a lot cleverer than your parents !!!

On some rare occasions parents are not always right !!!
Ian69
2007-07-09 13:45:21 UTC
Ignore him.



Or tell him you are taking heroin, running off with a transvestite 50 years older than you and starting an explosives course in Pakistan. He'll soon shut up about your reading :)
mak
2007-07-09 13:46:46 UTC
Ignore them. Why cant they just support what you like??? Would they rather you be addicted to video games or on the computer 24/7. I cant believe they give you a hard time for reading.....SHAME ON THEM!!!!!
2007-07-09 13:45:48 UTC
you could either explain that reading is good for you

or

go the complete opposite and start smoking, drinking and playing violent video games in front of your parents. when they flip out, ask them if they would prefer you reading

or

read somewhere private (if you have your own room, or maybe your local library?)
2007-07-09 13:53:16 UTC
Reading expands the the mind. Ignore them.
2007-07-09 13:45:52 UTC
I would never discourage my kids from reading! I wish I was better at reading. If its what you like to do with your time then go ahead! Its not like your out doing drugs or something!
2007-07-09 13:50:21 UTC
carry on hon with the reading,they should be pleased not being so stupid,if it bothers you too much read out off their way,bedroom,library,,,,ask them what their problem is,at least your taking haste in your studies n enjoying them,,,good luck too you,maybe for christmas get them a book,xx
2007-07-09 13:45:50 UTC
Ignore them and read to your hearts content; let them worry when you go off the rails and start doing real bad stuff to worry about..
Hmmmm
2007-07-09 13:45:34 UTC
Keeping READING
2007-07-10 04:12:31 UTC
carry on reading at the end of the day it is your life and your brain an nxt time the say summert jst ignore them aor tell them you enjoy developing ur mind and vocab
2007-07-14 08:07:35 UTC
Just continue reading. Let them yell.
2007-07-09 13:44:53 UTC
Read whatever and whenever you want. It's far better than watching TV or smoking pot. Tell your parents it's your life and ask them what they have against books.
2007-07-09 13:52:32 UTC
Their may be jealouse of you and your very good reading skills, find a secret place to continue reading and be a good girl.
2007-07-09 13:46:56 UTC
My parents are much the same as yours, except when i get told to" stop reading that" its usually followed by you'll go blind!
2007-07-09 13:46:48 UTC
Take no notice of these uneducated Philistines. You are going to and seeing places in your mind that they can never see, feel or hear!



Read, Read, READ!!!!
2007-07-09 13:44:21 UTC
Carry on reading - it has many benefits, just explain to your parents is something you enjoy and you would like them to be supportive.



I love reading too!
Albinoballs
2007-07-09 13:47:51 UTC
Make a lap dog inapparent
2007-07-09 13:46:13 UTC
continue reading , I have never heard of any parent's discouraging their children from reading , if you are bothered by them bugging you ,read in your room or go outside and find a quiet place to read .
2007-07-09 13:44:40 UTC
Forget them and read anyway. They're being ridiculous. Would they prefer that you stop reading and play video games all day?
Anthony F
2007-07-09 13:45:59 UTC
Reading makes the man,....and the woman, I would add. Reading is good for you.
~*tigger*~ **
2007-07-14 11:42:21 UTC
hey you cant expect parents to share your interests

when mine make a negative comment i just smile or nod and thn dont let it bug me

pretty soon if you do that twio things will happen

the comments will stop

and whne you do hear them they wont bother you
prince_raoden
2007-07-09 13:44:31 UTC
Don't let your parents get in the way. If thats what you like, then don't change it. It sounds like your parents are being unreasonable
cobbler_98
2007-07-16 02:07:19 UTC
carry on reading hunny, nothing wrong with reading, i'm 31 and I love reading, never did me any harm!!
Dazzlebox
2007-07-10 08:16:52 UTC
darling...you read as much as you like...if they don't like it then that's their problem...try going to a library where it's quiet so they don't whinge at you about your reading...how else are you going to lean stuff...your parents are unreasonable....tell them it's all part of your education and they should be encouraging you instead of dissing you....
2007-07-09 13:45:33 UTC
dont listen to them read if u want u know what i never heard about parents discouraging
2007-07-09 13:44:24 UTC
Just ignore them and keep on reading.
Stephen M
2007-07-09 13:45:46 UTC
keep reading. its good for you, there are a lot worse things you could be out doing rather than reading, who cares what your parents think
suprwmn45
2007-07-09 13:45:23 UTC
keep reading. Its not their fault that you want to increase your vocabulary and better yourself for the world...they should encourage you like normal parents do



Go for it!
theunknownstuntman
2007-07-09 13:49:04 UTC
Tell him to P!SS off! Only thing for it i reckon! keep reading
Pandora
2007-07-09 13:45:00 UTC
ignore himand tell him "what else is there to do!!! watch tv or talk to you !!!"

"most dads would kill for a son like me but no youre not happy youre never happy.."
L
2007-07-09 13:45:33 UTC
ignore their comments and carry on reading
shell
2007-07-09 13:46:15 UTC
read how to tell your parents to sod off!! they should get the picture
2007-07-09 13:44:32 UTC
just tell them you want to be a book writer
2007-07-09 13:44:40 UTC
dont listem to them! reading will get u farther then ur parents ever will
dawnnkev t
2007-07-13 10:25:36 UTC
Take up smoking.....that'll really give them something to worry about!!
2007-07-11 09:56:03 UTC
ask them why they don't like you to read. if they say it's stupid, ask them, "didn't you ever read when you were younger?" and then just say it's ..ummm... summer homework.
2007-07-09 13:44:51 UTC
Keep on, adults can be really lame sometimes.
Don't Ask
2007-07-09 13:44:25 UTC
do what you want, they should be able to believe that this is what you like, and they should let you read.
2007-07-09 13:46:13 UTC
that's a shame..have a word with a aunt or uncle about it
xX-dOn-Xx
2007-07-15 13:10:47 UTC
Carry on reading!!!!!!!!


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