How To Read Critically and Engage More With Books

this is my guide to critical reading! How do you read more critically, how can you engage more with the stories you read? How do you articulate your opinions on literature in a book review? Whether you like reading fiction or non-fiction, we can learn a lot from books and I hope this video helps you learn how to read deeper (for personal development or just for fun!)
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🌼 s o c i a l m e d i a
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🌺 a b o u t m e
Hi! My name is Leonie and I am a 22 year old girl who loves talking about books! From YA to non-fiction to classics, I read it all (although fantasy will always be my fave). I live in the Netherlands and go to university, but make booktube videos in my spare time :)
🌹 m u s i c
• KZbin Audio Library

[@juliaromero7512]

i think it's better to read 15 to 20 books and completely reflect and understand the whole book rather than to read 50+ but you only know the story of it.

[@Kritagya2007]

Your name is so beautiful

[@megmorningstar4250]

one book a week isn't too much. but what about those who read 3 books/week and pretend to understand and have complete comprehension of what they read xDl

[@RED-my9hl]

That's how some people like to do it, stop judging 💀

[@line7596]

@@RED-my9hlI don’t think this comment isn’t judging at all? They’re just saying they think it’s better one way than another.. which is okay.

[@RED-my9hl]

@@line7596 pfffft I forgot I made this comment 💀

[@pleiades250]

this was a really helpful video so i made some notes, hope this helps someone! critical reading is: analysing stories you read. asking why do i like this/why do i not like it? objectivity vs subjectivity /impossible to be objective. be aware of your own subjectivity, though, so you can empathise with how different ppl might enjoy different things in books /what about this book is not for me but could be for other ppl? and vice versa? goal of the story /understand what the author is trying to do /is there a flaw in the book or is there something you personally don't like? questions to ask yourself /if i'm not enjoying a book is: what should change to make this book perfect to me? and the answer is your critique of the book... you might not like certain tropes etc /why do i feel connected/not connected to these characters? /are the events plausible? /is the plottwist foreshadowed or did it come out of nowhere? /am i immersed in the world and why? /why do i root for/not root for this romance? /why do i never want to pick up the book again when i put it away/why do i always want to keep reading? /does the story subvert common tropes? /what makes me feel excited about the story? does it have any tropes i'm particularly fond of? /what are my thoughts on the writing style? tools (being able to actually remember what you read) /tabs (ie. those coloured sticky strips) /bullet journal/notebook where you write thoughts about every book that you read /notetaking app (ie. notion) - if you suddenly have an idea about a book, you can immediately jot it down /write in your books meaning /should put emphasis on the meaning has for us. instead of just focusing on story structure and how it is written, take time to focus and think about why a book touches you/why you have a strong aversion to other stories, think about what that book meant to you at a certain point in your life. this helps you "journal" using the books you read two keys to reading critically /understand when something is on you or when something is on the book and the writing /always ask WHY ^

[@lauramartinez1698]

I was just loking for this, thank you so much!

[@julialovesgfriend]

WONDERFUL thank you !!!!

[@katrielebustamante7297]

I LOVE YOU

[@amibrink]

Thank you for this. the video was helpful and your notes will help solidify the information.

[@leyyadjoma6880]

The video is very informative and your notes help to digest it. Thank you very much 🙂

[@makarovdude]

Growing up, my parents were constantly making comments during movies and TV shows. I was annoyed by it then but I realize now that it was teaching me to have a critical eye. They would also want to discuss the books I was reading. My mom would corner me and ask me what I was enjoying about it and which characters I liked or disliked. Again, annoying when you're a kid, super helpful later on when you're an adult! Great video! Thanks for the tips!

[@merphynapier42]

Ah! I got a shout out! Thank you so much

[@TheBookLeo]

I'm so glad you liked it!

[@henrywayne5724]

Whoa, hey Merphy! What a small book tube world!

[@yusuhani]

omg, merphy is friends with leo.

[@ScullyPopASMR]

I read with respect, knowing how much work goes into a novel, and that does it for me.

[@Andrea-qr7ne]

I loved this video! Especially the point of learning to differentiate between the goal of the story and your personal taste.

[@shairahc2964]

Really love the way you're propelling your channel, Leonie! At the beginning of this year, I was feeling pretty overwhelmed with my incapability of critically analyzing and articulating my thoughts and feelings from the books I've been reading - but as I kept going, it came naturally! I'm still anticipating to improve and this video was just perfect timing for me. I'm really looking forward to using your methods, how wonderful of you to share it with us! (: And yes, I think we would all enjoy an annotating video! Your filming/editing style (and your energy) is just so calming and you're the only Booktuber that doesn't make me feel stressed about how many books I'm getting through. Can't wait to see your next video upload!

[@hendersonkathleen101]

I LOVE annotation videos, every one is so personal and makes me think about what works for me

[@AFrolicThroughFiction]

this video is put together so well! I feel like it can be super daunting, the idea of reading critically, but it's often a case of asking yourself more questions while reading. I think you did a fab job of making it seem less overwhelming, and more motivational instead!

[@emmilia2952]

Just what I needed! I've been reading a lot lately and find myself not being able to articulate my thoughts on the book. I immediately feel like I have to read it again or take loads of notes to truly appreciate the piece 💕

[@eyespywithmylili]

Thank you for sharing this! As a returning reader (I stopped reading for a year, a YEAR) I find this very useful now in my new reading journey. I think I simply read books before and ultimately just after finishing the book I forget about the story. I want to thank you again for this video as it will help me in 2021 to read more intuitively and with more intention. Love this so so much.💛

[@erincousins7949]

This has to be my FAVORITE video you've made! Such great, satisfying editing (as always) and exactly what I need to help me learn more about deeper reading so I can help my future English students to fall in love with reading ☺❤

[@walterpinkmantanay1577]

This is such a positive video we need these kind of videos in the community more great work leo love it❤ the inner philosopher and psychologist in me was always all ears (*also i like the calming background music to go with the vibe of the video, smart move😏*)

[@TheBookLeo]

we love a good inner philosopher and psychologist

[@TheWordN3rd]

Yes! Thank you! It's literally impossible for us to be objective. Even some of the things we take for granted as "the way things are done" are that way because someone somewhere decided they liked it that way.

[@NeilBruder]

Very concise and helpful. Thank you! I realized that when I don’t like a book I spend a lot of time mulling it over in my brain but now I’m thinking I should start writing those thoughts down to organize them better. Also I realized when I really like a book I don’t spend as much time asking myself why but that can be just as helpful as asking why I didn’t like something.

[@manaalsidd]

OMG! This is a video I never knew I needed! Thank u so much. I have been suffering from quick and non-immersive reading for a very long time. Will definitely be trying to read more critically. 😊

[@bluemuyunda4145]

I love how positive this is 🥺🥺 I love how you emphasize how personal and individual reading is

[@lunarisleamse4540]

I did not know I was reading critically until I watched this. I thought everybody read like that. This is actually interesting.

[@krystene.9457]

I love love love this video!!! It's so helpful because i always find myself wondering how other people have really critical and more detailed review about the book. I learned a lot from this one. I hope eventually I could engage myself more and be more critical in reading books. So excited to see how you annotate books.

[@doritobaby]

I enjoyed this video so much. I always loved books and stories and I went to university but I never picked up on the skill of reading critically. I am in my late 20s now and I've decided learning to read in this way will help me become a more observant, focused, and critically thinking individual who is capable of engaging with the world. I'm also not embarrassed to say how I felt about #3 basic questions: I'm stunned how simple the questions are and I feel surprised that they’re mostly about how I EXPERIENCE the book and that it’s not about HAVING TO EVALUATE the text against a lofty set of standards. Maybe it says something about me how I’m so used to taking my thoughts and feelings out of consideration when it comes to things… “Excited” “Root for/not root for” “my thoughts” “feel connected/not connected” “want to pick up or put away…” “fond of” I never realized the importance of my own personal feelings and subjectivity to reading. I know my enthusiasm to books stems from my need for comfort (which is a good reason to read) but a lot of times I’ve found myself looking at how others feel about it and decide that somehow that’s how I feel about it too… when you are not confident about what you’re doing, you can totally fall into peer pressure and public opinion like that. thank you and i look forward to watching more videos (and acknowledging my own feelings and opinions in relation to specific parts and elements of the material from now on)

[@arimamary92]

This video was SO helpful!! Thank you so much!! I'm planning to start a reading journal and these points on how to read critically are just what I need!

[@aflatoxicosis]

I absolutely loved this video. I really think that more booktubers and such should have these kinds of discussions because it really gets you thinking and makes you want to delve more into what you are reading.

[@luketufts6827]

Such an important skill! I think you’re right that a lot of people think that it’s ‘beyond them’ intellectually without giving it a real try. And yeah, you can learn a lot about writing by just asking “why?” something worked, didn’t work, or landed a certain way in a story. Nice video 👍

[@elenathegreat]

Love your points on what in a book that doesn’t work for you that might work for someone else!! Also yesss I like to look at books within the contexts of the genre they’re in and age category - not fair to hold romance books to the same standards as fantasy for example. I would add for questions: “if I’m not enjoying this story, what kind of reader can I see liking this story (ex. Someone who reads for escapism, someone who reads for character development, etc.) ?” which kind of goes off your point of trying to find elements in books that suit certain kinds of readers. I think that’s why I’ve always loved your reviews and wrap ups because you’re always so articulate about what you like and didn’t like in books and why, while still being mindful that others may enjoy those elements ☺️

[@TheBookLeo]

elena you're so nice

[@jamesduggan7200]

for my journal entries I include the date, a full paragraph, and an exact citation with edition and page number - thx, enjoyed the video

[@LilyEleanorReads]

okay the editing in this is EVERYTHING! all of the questions you listed are super helpful. I don't think I've ever thought of critical reading with that structure but i always try to have some balance in my reviews so even in 5 star reviews acknowledging what might appeal to me personally but not others and vice versa with lower rating books acknowledging what may work for other readers. I think sometimes critically reading has made me enjoy a book even more - I recently read Stay With Me by Ayobami Adebayo and discussing the themes with my friend and researching interviews with the author and the context of the setting gave me a huge insight that made me appreciate the story a lot more!

[@TheBookLeo]

yes indeed its such a nice experience when look at a book more critically and then find out you can appreciate it on a whole new level!

[@valentinasnotebook]

Thank you so much for this video 🥰 I've been thinking a lot more about critical reading, specially since I started my own channel and I already do some of the things that you mentioned like keeping a book journal, but all the other tips and questions that you mentioned were really helpful. I took notes and will be sure to implement these things in my reading from now on :)

[@biblio.beth3]

This was so interesting! I've recently decided to try reviewing books that I read, and have just started to write down my thoughts as I go - I'm really loving it! The editing of this video is so good 😘👌🏻 the little cut scenes were great

[@aryakumar9921]

I love how this video is informative and aesthetic at the same time!

[@helendeacon7637]

Careful, thoughtful, critical reading means books are retained and the main points may be retrieved. Thanks so much. This was really worthwhile to watch.

[@a.g.2790]

Yes!!! The writing journal!💗💗💗 Great video & lots of helpful tips for a more meaningful reading experience.

[@teanlit2949]

i think this a profoundly important topic and i'm grad you've brought it to the forefront and given people the tools to read critically. i hope it brings more people to booktube.

[@bookshelfsoliloquies]

I absolutely loved this! I've been trying to read more critically to help me write my reviews and also figure out what actually makes me fall in love with a book, but I always felt I wasn't clever enough (which is of course bullshit) so having a nice list with some pointers makes the idea of critical reading so much more accessible!

[@writerofwildwords1777]

This was really helpful! Lately, I’ve been struggling with properly putting my thoughts about books into words and I think your tips are really useful when trying to make better reviews :)

[@elenichamou1791]

Thank you so much for making this video! I was constantly thinking about how to analyse a book and if subjectivity is a good thing because your reviews can influence other people. I usually don't take notes and prefer to immerse in the story but it is something I plan on doing. And just for the record I love your videos💜💜💜

[@josephmarshall6599]

Super creative, well written and well spoken and a great underlying message through it all. Thanks for uploading!

[@hera2593]

I kind of wanted to run a reading journal to keep a trace of my readings, but I was kind of lazy about it at the same time... you motivated me !! I began my reading journal today yayy

[@DanielCifer]

I think this is your best editted video so far, very well done, absolutely loved it! It wasn't necessarily a book but when you talked about how anyone could learn something about themselves from the most unexpected place that they came across, it reminded me of my experience rewatching Shrek when I had become more critical than I was when I was 5 lol.

[@sl2394]

Ah there are so many things that I liked in this video. First of all I really like how articulate you are and your way of narration. And I like your enthusiasm for books and the overall vibes that you give off. And I like the crocheted top that you are wearing. And I noticed that I also have the same plant poster hanging on my walls. And I was surprised to find out that you are also Dutch! And of course super helpful video!! It really inspires me to read books more critically, to find joy in reading again and even to be more in the booktube world! Thank you for making such a good video! ❤

[@icimaryse]

Great in depth video! I agree that meaning and critical reading is something that deserves more attention in the bookish internet sphere. Could you please make a video on how you make notes on your readings? I'd love to know how you use the combination of your physical journal and notion! I'm also really curious to how you combine reading for fun with your masters degree (for me my masters is also a lot of reading and so I have a hard time finding time to read more 'difficult' books). Love your channel!!

[@moon-cg9xm]

Thank you for this! I've always wanted to know how to truly engage with the books I read but I just... didn't know where to start. This was really helpful! :)

[@kuy3796]

I loved this video, thank you! I always tried to find that erudite look on stories but I'm beginning to learn that a lot of what i wanna find is already inside me. In art my opinion matters, and that can help me understand it all better. Thank you so much!

[@Monokuroboofan]

This was a really great video and guide. I usually zone out with these sort of videos, but I think the examples you gave were helpful. A bit of a side story: two of the classes that made a lasting impact on me were an English and art history class. I went in not expecting any lasting impact and while they were different, an overlap that had a powerful impact on me was the validation of one's own experience and feelings while reading the book or viewing artwork. Not every thought or conclusion needs to be profound. If something makes one feel a certain way, follow that thread and think about how that feeling was produced, which is something the video did a great job of distinguishing.

[@c.l.nicole7936]

Thank you for sharing this! I’ve just started reading more regularly and found this very helpful.

[@bettinab2401]

I feel sooo validade haha. I've been taking notes of the books for years and everybody always asks why if I'm not posting it anywhere. I was starting to think I was a weirdo haha. Thanks, Leo 😉

[@TheBookLeo]

not everything has to be shared!

[@darleneforte9479]

Oh I do the same thing! It sort of feels like a diary entry to me haha

[@OPNotes]

I was low-key bugged about those books placed with the spine backed to the wall.😂

[@ajaymurali97]

She only does that to differentiate between sets of books she's on a deadline to complete.

[@craigkubica3824]

I feel like I just learned so much informative stuff and for once there was no cost attached! Thank you! 😊

[@misvideosmimusica]

Wow Lennie this is now my favourite video you’ve made (and I love all your videos). It is just what I needed to hear. I sometimes feel that maybe I can’t say many “intelligent” things about books because I haven’t studied literature, so for example I don’t know a lot about writing styles or symbolism or whatever. I just know I like or dislike the writing style, and sometimes I understand the symbolism and sometimes I don’t. But you’re so right, everyone can read critically and everyone’s opinion on a book is equally valid, because we all have different experiences and that makes fun different interpretations and approaches to the story. ❤️❤️❤️ I will definetly be trying some of your tips and tools!

[@sususnandes]

I loved this video ♥️ I’m super hyped by these different videos that you’re creating right now

[@merreads]

Such a great video! I’ve been reading more critically lately and it’s really helpful to know what to look for in books I want to read next

[@juliadevargasabruzzi1717]

I love your channel cause you bring different topics and things that are really interesting and we do not usually see on booktube. Thankxx

[@sarahsperusals]

annotating was such a game changer for me in terms of thinking more critically about what i was reading. i know it can be hard at first if you're not used to marking your books (i was like that for a long time) but i'm so glad i took that leap. i don't think i'll ever go back

[@TheBookLeo]

same! i just started a few months ago and i love it

[@elfoster234]

I loved this video! It's super helpful and will definitely be putting this into practice in the future. 😊

[@JuanCamiloAcostaArango]

I just followed some of the tips you gave here, and applied them to the book I'm reading now. Suddenly with simple questions I was able to understand why I didn't like it and also give arguments, then I realised that it is not a fault in the writing of the book, but it is more about my personality and how it doesn't get amused by the story. Anyways thanks a lot for the video. Kudos!

[@ofwavesandpages]

this was great because I haven't written a proper review in so long, I'm starting to think I've forgotten how to tbh hahaha so I'll keep these in mind so I can try them again

[@leilazouinou3172]

Absolutely loved this one. Exactly what I needed at the moment. Always a fan😘

[@OhioEddieBlack]

This was really well done - thanks for putting this out there. Not just the how-to part, but your reassurances that everyone is capable of this, and that they can do it simply for themselves. You rock!

[@TheBookLeo]

thank you

[@patrii]

This is such a beautiful video, I literally took notes while watching it. Thank you for making such amazing content :)

[@rosalie_m7305]

Definitely the best video about reading critically. Very relatable points

[@pinkpollen5947]

I came here feeling like I'm not gonna like this but your brilliant editing and points delivery just get me.. it's very calming and well-organized .. there are some strong points that I will keep in mind while reading..thanks!

[@gabriellaoliveira9833]

This??? Is such a good video??? Not only the content (and I love that you brought this discussion!) but also the editing, montage, structure and everything. Wow we stan a queen 🙌

[@neverxever66]

This is such a well constructed video, I absolutely loved it! For myself, I feel like my reading (and my actual memory of what I read, lol) improved SO much once I started keeping a book journal (whether that's a bullet journal or a book journal you can buy that already has a set layout). My favorite thing is that you can easily track how your reading taste evolves over time, and you can kind of retroactively watch yourself become a better reader - it's so satisfying!

[@gabriellaoliveira9833]

neverxever66 yeah!!! I started to keep a reading journal a few months back, and it’s so satisfying to be able to write your thoughts and impressions. Of course, there’s goodreads and all, but to see it all laid down in paper really makes me reflect more. And, that’s true! I’m very curious to see as my reading taste evolves haha.

[@malundy]

Algorithm enhancing comment: very helpful, thank you. I particularly like the questions to ask yourself. I've asked myself most of those questions but they were al jumbled up in my mind. The way you articulated them will help me organize my thoughts.

[@amibrink]

This was great! I just recently started to make book reviews on my Goodreads accounts since joining back in 2015. Thank you for posting and explaining. I will definately be giving this video a few rewatches as well.

[@tragicsimmer]

goodreads/storygraph reviews are a great way to develop this skill without even noticing. it made me really start thinking more about pros, cons, and all the aspects that added up to the evaluation I gave the book.

[@timtim2247]

This video was so helpful and I learned so much from it and can I just say, your videos are so pleasing to watch, your editing skills are amazing and those little clips you put between tips are super aesthetic and professional. Can’t wait to see more of you :>>

[@Erika.V]

A few days ago I started taking notes while reading, and now I came across this video. Yay! Thanks.

[@nicsflippingpages6681]

I love this video so much 💕 Please make a video on the different ways you use to annotate. 😊

[@notconfused47]

thank you so much for this video, it was really helpful! someone has probably commented on this already but i'd be super interested in a video about how to annotate books :)

[@user-qu8zs7vs1x]

Loved the part about self-censoring. It really made me realize that I've been doing it a lot lately. I love how you plan your videos, the content, your natural personality.. I'm a fan for sure!

[@suchismitasatapathy5495]

The way u were explaining, I was really enjoying it.

[@cardiscorner]

this was very helpful! and a video concerning annotating would be lovely

[@joanamarques6184]

I really loved this video. Original and thought provoking, thank you!

[@blythe2872]

“reading means different to every person.” so true. so many people want to pick up that one hyped up book but end up not liking it

[@katechurch2393]

I would love a video on how you annotate books! I always want to start annotating, but then I never know what to annotate and how I want to go about annotating.

[@SunitaSharma-qe4rk]

Enjoyed the vid.. a must watch for a reader♥️ Loved your points!

[@nejohnson9894]

Thanks you, this came out with perfect timing for me!

[@svenjaf335]

I loved this so much! I'd also love a video on how you annotate if you want to make that!

[@aracelisalazar5419]

Please, we need a reading journal flipthrough!!

[@MaryAmongStories]

this was such a well planned video! absolutely loved it 💕

[@TheBookLeo]

thank you mary!

[@YOUWILLPERISH]

I really appreciate this so much! I always put myself down, fearing that no one will be interested in my opinion, blahbalhblahl... And doing that with the combination of depression really winds up dragging me down and I have trouble finding a reason to do anything. However bringing it back to myself, and analyzing this as a way of self growth is something I've definitely have always tried to do it's just so hard trying to find a place to start when you have no idea of any of the terminology, or backings for things so having videos like this, that give descriptions for things just enough to be able to take something from it, without having all of the work done for you I think is a beautiful introduction that I'm sure has helped many :) Thank you!

[@AkaHeiwa]

That was super inspiring ! Thank you so much for those tips ✨

[@GirlMadeofWords]

This is a video I really needed. Thank you! 💕

[@bastardofthebarrel]

I have never been taught how to actually read books and analyze them properly. Our country's education system is whacked. I'm trying to teach myself how to read critically. Thank you for this video. I took notes very seriously. Hope I will get there soon.

[@marieh5228]

Such a great video! The aesthetic, the content, the little book related clips throughout, just everything 😗👌

[@TheBookLeo]

[@tnan123]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video. Great editing and content. Would love to see how you annotate or use notion (I just got into Notion and its great!)

[@hams2410]

This is exactly what I want! Thank you very much ❤️

[@sheyslibrary]

I really really love your B-roll for this vid!

[@jonmasselink4214]

Wonderful thoughts! You've really helped me to think about reading in a new way!! Dank je wel!!

[@orsettomorbido]

This also works the other way round! If you learn how to write, you will be able to read more critically. Learning the rules of writing (AND EXAMPLES! Always read examples and explanations) was absolutely the best thing I could do to start enjoying reading books so much more.

[@loudfunstrawberry4127]

This is the first video I am watching from this channel and I must say I like this way of discovering a new channel. An instant subscriber here!

[@tamarynwiggins3174]

this is amazing, so helpful!! Thank you :)

[@karammelkon]

Awesome video and tips! I needed to hear this. Thanks for sharing!

[@pendragon2012]

I love this! Thanks, Leonnie!

[@saragh3900]

I love this video. So educational and the shots are beautiful

[@thebookstamp9976]

your point about self-censoring is so good and I have never thought that way before.

[@lexye.]

Thank you, Leonie! I've been wanting to review the books I read but then I feel I do not have the necessary skill (?) to do it and "who would want my opinion?". This video was really helpful and supportive.

[@TheBookLeo]

i'm really glad this video helped! Go review those books!

[@lanainthekitchen9099]

I adore your videos so much! You inspired me to read more and thoroughly 🥺

[@agnetebutk]

9:55 haha jokes on you, no one reads my Goodreads reviews either

[@baddiemoyd]

This book was so so helpful, thankyou for your awesome tips!!!

[@jwinkies3011]

I love your videos! They're so well crafted