10 Powerful Lessons in Reading From Theodore Roosevelt

Theodore Roosevelt, the adventurous “Rough Rider” President, wasn’t just a man of action; he was a man of words. A voracious reader with an insatiable curiosity, TR believed books held the key to unlocking knowledge, shaping character, and fueling a life of purpose. 

In this post, we’ll saddle up and explore 10 powerful lessons Roosevelt gleaned from his lifelong love of reading.  Whether you’re a seasoned bibliophile or just starting your literary journey, these insights from a remarkable leader can help you transform your reading experience and become a more well-rounded individual. So, grab your favourite book, settle in, and get ready to discover how Roosevelt’s wisdom can inspire you to read with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of fun!

Theodore Roosevelt Reading Tips

Dive into the world of books with these inspiring reading tips from Theodore Roosevelt:

1. Choose Books Based on Personal Taste

“The reader’s personal and individual taste must be the guiding factor when choosing a book”. 

Theodore Roosevelt believed reading thrives on personal connection.  In his quote, he emphasizes that the joy of reading comes from discovery.  Following your own interests, whether it’s thrilling adventures, captivating mysteries, or in-depth historical accounts, fuels the desire to delve deeper and create a more meaningful reading experience.  Just like close friendships, the books you choose should spark curiosity and ignite your imagination.

2. Embrace Your Unique Preferences

“I like hunting books and books of exploration and adventure. I do not ask anyone else to like them”.

Theodore Roosevelt wasn’t shy about his love for “hunting books and books of exploration and adventure,” as evidenced by the quote. Here, he celebrates the beauty of embracing your individual reading preferences. Just like Roosevelt revelled in thrilling narratives without seeking validation, you too should indulge in the genres that ignite your passion. Your reading journey is a personal voyage, so don’t be afraid to chart your own course and savour the unique discoveries along the way.

3. Be Honest About Your Reading Preferences

“A reader must not hypocritically pretend to like what he does not like”.

In the quote, Theodore Roosevelt emphasizes authenticity in your reading life.  There’s no need to feign enjoyment for books that don’t spark your interest.  Reading should be a source of pleasure and intellectual stimulation, and forcing yourself through something you dislike defeats that purpose.  Embrace your genuine preferences and seek out books that ignite your curiosity and leave you wanting more.

4. Statesmen Should Read Fiction

“Now and then I am asked as to ‘what books a statesman should read,’ and my answer is, poetry and novels—including short stories under the head of novels”.

In the face of inquiries about a statesman’s ideal reading list, Theodore Roosevelt surprised many by advocating for fiction and poetry in his response, “Now and then I am asked as to ‘what books a statesman should read,’ and my answer is, poetry and novels—including short stories under the head of novels.”  He recognized the importance of fostering well-rounded thinking in leaders and believed exposure to imaginative literature alongside factual texts achieves this.  By delving into fictional worlds and exploring emotions through poetry, leaders can gain valuable insights into human nature and the complexities of the world they navigate.

5. Expand Your Literary Horizons

“If he cannot also enjoy the Hebrew prophets and the Greek dramatists, he should be sorry”.

While acknowledging personal taste, Theodore Roosevelt also believed in expanding your literary horizons.  This quote highlights the value of delving into classic literature.  These ancient texts offer a window into different cultures, explore timeless themes, and hone critical thinking skills.  By incorporating classics alongside your preferred genres, you gain a deeper understanding of the world, broaden your perspective, and enrich your overall reading experience.

6. You Are What You Read

“I am a part of everything that I have read.”

In the profound statement, “I am a part of everything that I have read,” Theodore Roosevelt captures the transformative power of reading. He suggests that the knowledge, ideas, and experiences encountered within books become woven into the fabric of who we are. Each book shapes our understanding of the world, broadens our perspectives, and influences our beliefs. By actively engaging with literature, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, constantly evolving and becoming a product of the stories we absorb. So, embrace the power of reading, for with every page turned, you are building a richer, more informed version of yourself.

7. Books Are Personal, Like Friends

“Books are almost as individual as friends. There is no earthly use in laying down general laws about them.”

Theodore Roosevelt emphasized the unique connection between reader and book in his quote, “Books are almost as individual as friends. There is no earthly use in laying down general laws about them.”  Just like friendships blossom based on shared interests and personalities, the books that resonate with you are those that spark a personal connection.  There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to reading; some may find solace in poetry while others crave thrilling adventures.  Embrace the individuality of your reading journey, explore genres that pique your curiosity, and discover the unique friendships waiting to be forged within the pages of a book.

8. Reading is a Passionate Pursuit

“Reading with me is a disease.”

In the humorous quote, Theodore Roosevelt playfully acknowledges his insatiable appetite for books. This lighthearted remark highlights the passionate pursuit of knowledge and adventure that reading can ignite.  For avid readers, like Roosevelt himself, the act of reading becomes a delightful obsession, a constant urge to delve into new worlds and stories.  It’s a “disease” in the best sense, a relentless curiosity that drives intellectual growth and fuels a lifelong love of learning.

9. Train Children to Appreciate Good Books

“Fathers and mothers who are wise,” Roosevelt wrote, “can train their children first to practice, and soon to like, the sustained mental application necessary to enjoy good books.”

Though not directly quoted here, Theodore Roosevelt’s belief in fostering a love of reading in children is evident.  In his words, “Fathers and mothers who are wise…can train their children first to practice, and soon to like, the sustained mental application necessary to enjoy good books,” Roosevelt emphasizes the importance of parental guidance.  By encouraging regular reading habits and introducing children to quality literature, parents can nurture an appreciation for books that will enrich their lives.  This initial “practice” will eventually blossom into a genuine love for reading, a gift that will stay with them throughout their journey.

10. Cultivate a Taste for Classic Literature

“If anyone finds that he never reads serious literature, if all his reading is frothy and trashy, he would do well to try to train himself to like books that the general agreement of cultivated and sound-thinking persons has placed among the classics.”

Theodore Roosevelt, though not averse to a good adventure tale, also championed exposure to classic literature.  His advice in the paraphrase, “If anyone finds that he never reads serious literature…he would do well to try to train himself to like books…placed among the classics,” encourages expanding your reading horizons.  If your current choices are more lighthearted and lack depth, consider delving into classics chosen by knowledgeable readers. These enduring works offer timeless themes, masterful storytelling, and a deeper understanding of human experience.  By making a conscious effort to explore these classics, you might just discover a newfound appreciation for the richness and value they offer.

Summary

So there you have it, Roosevelt’s robust reading philosophy condensed into 10 powerful lessons. Remember, reading is a lifelong adventure, and just like TR, there’s always something new to discover between the pages.  What are some of your favourite reading tips or habits inspired by Theodore Roosevelt? Share your thoughts in the comments below!