How to Read a Book

'How to Read a Book' transforms the act of reading into an art form, guiding readers to engage deeply with texts. Mortimer J. Adler and Charles Van Doren reveal techniques that elevate mere reading to insightful analysis and comprehension. This book introduces a systematic approach to different genres, encouraging readers to ask critical questions and reflect on their understanding. With practical advice and thought-provoking insights, it empowers readers to become active participants in the learning process. Journey beyond passive reading and unlock the secrets to true literary appreciation!

By Mortimer J. Adler, Charles Van Doren

Published: 2014

How to Read a BookBook binding

Start Listening

Play Preview

You might also like →

Bird by BirdBook binding

Bird by Bird

Anne Lamott

Ernest Hemingway on WritingBook binding

Ernest Hemingway on Writing

Larry W. Phillips

Monday's Not ComingBook binding

Monday's Not Coming

Tiffany D. Jackson

The Scout MindsetBook binding

The Scout Mindset

Julia Galef

Cognitive PsychologyBook binding

Cognitive Psychology

Michael W. Eysenck, Mark T. Keane

Heaven is for RealBook binding

Heaven is for Real

Todd Burpo, Lynn Vincent

Living a Life that MattersBook binding

Living a Life that Matters

Harold S. Kushner

The Holy ManBook binding

The Holy Man

Susan Trott

What We See When We ReadBook binding

What We See When We Read

Peter Mendelsund

If on a Winter's Night a TravellerBook binding

If on a Winter's Night a Traveller

Italo Calvino

A Mind at Home with ItselfBook binding

A Mind at Home with Itself

Stephen Mitchell, Byron Katie

On Writing: 10th Anniversary EditionBook binding

On Writing: 10th Anniversary Edition

Stephen King

Cry, the Beloved CountryBook binding

Cry, the Beloved Country

Alan Paton

The Complete Novels of Jane AustenBook binding

The Complete Novels of Jane Austen

Jane Austen

MatildaBook binding

Matilda

Roald Dahl

ScaleBook binding

Scale

Geoffrey B. West

The Art of the Long ViewBook binding

The Art of the Long View

Peter Schwartz

A Christmas CarolBook binding

A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens

The DreamersBook binding

The Dreamers

Karen Thompson Walker

The Diamond AgeBook binding

The Diamond Age

Neal Stephenson

The Guns of AugustBook binding

The Guns of August

Barbara W. Tuchman

If You Want to WriteBook binding

If You Want to Write

Brenda Ueland

Literary MachinesBook binding

Literary Machines

Theodor H. Nelson

A Collection of EssaysBook binding

A Collection of Essays

George Orwell

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid TestBook binding

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test

Tom Wolfe

You're Better Than MeBook binding

You're Better Than Me

Bonnie McFarlane

One Thousand and One NightsBook binding

One Thousand and One Nights

Hanan al-Shaykh

Book Collections you might like →

Michael Pollan's Book Recommendations

Michael Pollan's Book Recommendations

Michael Pollan is a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his insightful explorations of food, agriculture, and human culture. His groundbreaking book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma," published in 2006, critically examines the complexities of the modern food industry and has become a seminal work in food studies. Pollan's engaging narrative style and thorough research have earned him a place on The New York Times Best Seller list multiple times. In addition to his literary contributions, he is also a professor of journalism at the University of California, Berkeley. Pollan's work continues to influence public discourse on sustainable eating and the ethical implications of food choices.

View Collection
Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations

Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations

Shane Parrish is a renowned author and the founder of Farnam Street, a popular blog dedicated to personal development and decision-making. His insightful writings delve into mental models, critical thinking, and learning strategies, earning him a significant following among intellectuals and professionals alike. Parrish's work emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and thinking differently to achieve success. He is also the host of "The Knowledge Project" podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers to uncover their wisdom. His contributions have made a substantial impact on how readers approach problem-solving and personal growth.

View Collection
David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations

David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations

David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work

View Collection
Dave Elitch's Book Recommendations

Dave Elitch's Book Recommendations

Dave Elitch is a renowned drummer and educator, best known for his dynamic and innovative drumming techniques. Though primarily celebrated for his contributions to the music industry, Elitch has authored several influential articles and educational materials on drumming, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work has been featured in prestigious music publications, where he shares his insights on rhythm, technique, and the art of performance. Elitch's dedication to teaching has also led him to conduct masterclasses worldwide, inspiring a new generation of drummers. His contributions have significantly impacted both the practical and theoretical aspects of modern drumming.

View Collection
Aubrey Plaza's Book Recommendations

Aubrey Plaza's Book Recommendations

Aubrey Plaza is an acclaimed American actress, comedian, and producer known for her deadpan delivery and versatile performances across film and television. Although primarily recognized for her roles in productions like "Parks and Recreation" and "Legion," Plaza has also made significant contributions to literature. She co-authored the best-selling children's book "The Legend of the Christmas Witch" with Dan Murphy, blending her unique storytelling style with festive folklore. The book showcases her ability to captivate young readers and expand her creative talents beyond the screen. Plaza continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her innovative and multifaceted approach.

View Collection
Blake Lively's Book Recommendations

Blake Lively's Book Recommendations

Blake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.

View Collection
Bret Victor's Book Recommendations

Bret Victor's Book Recommendations

Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.

View Collection
Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

View Collection
Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth's Book Recommendations

Andrew Lokenauth is a distinguished author and financial expert known for his insightful contributions to personal finance and investment literature. With a career spanning over a decade, he has written extensively on topics such as wealth management, financial planning, and market analysis. Lokenauth's works are celebrated for their clarity and practical advice, making complex financial concepts accessible to a broad audience. He has been featured in numerous financial publications and has established himself as a trusted voice in the industry. Beyond his writing, Lokenauth is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various seminars and workshops.

View Collection
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations

Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations

Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.

View Collection
Niki Scevak's Book Recommendations

Niki Scevak's Book Recommendations

Niki Scevak is a distinguished entrepreneur and venture capitalist, widely recognized for his contributions to the startup ecosystem rather than traditional literature. As a co-founder and partner at Blackbird Ventures, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring successful Australian tech startups. Scevak also co-founded Startmate, an influential accelerator program that has shaped numerous early-stage companies. His work has significantly impacted the Australian tech landscape, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth. Though not an author of traditional books, his insights and thought leadership are frequently shared through industry publications and speaking engagements.

View Collection
Darren Aronofsky's Book Recommendations

Darren Aronofsky's Book Recommendations

Darren Aronofsky is an American filmmaker, known for his psychologically intense and visually stunning films, including Requiem for a Dream, Black Swan, and The Wrestler. Aronofsky’s work often explores themes of obsession, identity, and self-destruction, and his unique directorial style has earned him critical acclaim and numerous awards. His ability to blend dark, complex narratives with striking visuals has made him one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary cinema. Aronofsky is also an advocate for environmental sustainability and has used his platform to raise awareness about climate change. His films continue to push boundaries and provoke thought on a range of human experiences.

View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

View Collection
David Sinclair's Book Recommendations

David Sinclair's Book Recommendations

David Sinclair is an Australian biologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his pioneering research in the field of aging and longevity. Sinclair's work focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms that drive aging and developing interventions to slow or reverse the process. His bestselling book Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To explores the latest advancements in anti-aging science and offers insights into how humans might extend their healthspan. Sinclair's research has led to breakthroughs in areas such as sirtuins, NAD+ metabolism, and cellular reprogramming. He is also the co-founder of several biotech companies, including Sirtris Pharmaceuticals and Life Biosciences, dedicated to translating aging research into practical treatments. Sinclair is a vocal advocate for taking a proactive approach to aging, promoting lifestyle changes and emerging therapies to delay age-related diseases. His work has made him a leading figure in the longevity movement, influencing both scientific and public discourse on the future of health.

View Collection
Cleo Abram's Book Recommendations

Cleo Abram's Book Recommendations

Cleo Abram is a distinguished journalist and content creator known for her incisive storytelling and engaging multimedia presentations. She gained widespread recognition as a producer and host for Vox's acclaimed series, "Glad You Asked," where she explored complex topics with clarity and depth. Abram's work often intersects with technology and culture, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to her journalistic endeavors, she has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles to various esteemed publications. Her innovative approach to storytelling continues to influence and inspire both readers and aspiring journalists.

View Collection
Aaron Rodgers's Book Recommendations

Aaron Rodgers's Book Recommendations

Aaron Rodgers is a renowned American football quarterback, widely recognized for his exceptional career with the Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Although his primary acclaim comes from sports, Rodgers has contributed to literature through insightful writings and interviews that offer a deep dive into the mindset of a professional athlete. His thoughtful perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and personal growth have resonated with readers beyond the sports community. Rodgers’ contributions have been featured in various sports and lifestyle publications, adding a unique voice to the literary world. His ability to articulate the nuances of his experiences has made him a respected figure in both athletic and literary circles.

View Collection
Doug McMillon's Book Recommendations

Doug McMillon's Book Recommendations

Doug McMillon is a prominent American business executive, best known for serving as the President and CEO of Walmart Inc. since 2014. While McMillon is primarily recognized for his leadership in the corporate world, his contributions to literature include insightful writings on business strategy and retail innovation. His thought leadership pieces have been featured in leading business journals and magazines, offering valuable perspectives on global commerce and supply chain management. McMillon's strategic vision has not only transformed Walmart into a digital retail powerhouse but also influenced contemporary business practices. His work continues to inspire future leaders in the fields of business and economics.

View Collection
Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski's Book Recommendations

Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.

View Collection
Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations

Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations

Ellen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.

View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations

Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations

Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.

View Collection
Kevin Systrom's Book Recommendations

Kevin Systrom's Book Recommendations

Kevin Systrom is best known as the co-founder of Instagram, a social media platform that has revolutionized visual storytelling and digital communication. Although not primarily known for contributions to literature, Systrom's work has significantly influenced modern narratives through the lens of technology and social media. His innovative approach has enabled millions to share their stories and experiences globally, altering the landscape of contemporary storytelling. Systrom's impact extends beyond tech, as his vision has inspired a new genre of digital content creation. His achievements underscore the intersection of technology and culture, shaping the way stories are told and consumed in the digital age.

View Collection
Dustin Moskovitz's Book Recommendations

Dustin Moskovitz's Book Recommendations

Dustin Moskovitz is an American entrepreneur and co-founder of the social networking website Facebook, which has become one of the most influential platforms globally. He later co-founded Asana, a popular work management tool designed to help teams orchestrate their work, from daily tasks to strategic initiatives. While Moskovitz is not primarily known for contributions to literature, his impact on the tech industry and workplace productivity has been widely documented and analyzed in numerous books and articles. His philanthropic efforts through the Good Ventures foundation, which he started with his wife Cari Tuna, also highlight his significant role in promoting effective altruism. Moskovitz's work continues to influence both technology and business management practices around the world.

View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.

View Collection
Rolf Potts's Book Recommendations

Rolf Potts's Book Recommendations

Rolf Potts is a renowned travel writer best known for his influential book "Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel," which has inspired countless readers to explore the world on their own terms. Born in 1970, Potts has contributed to numerous prestigious publications such as National Geographic Traveler, The New Yorker, and The New York Times. He is celebrated for his emphasis on the philosophy of travel as a means of personal growth and cultural understanding. Potts has also taught writing at institutions like Yale University and the University of Pennsylvania. His work continues to shape the travel writing genre and inspire adventurers around the globe.

View Collection
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

View Collection
Bryan Callen's Book Recommendations

Bryan Callen's Book Recommendations

Bryan Callen is a multifaceted American entertainer best known for his work as a comedian, actor, and podcast host. He gained recognition as one of the original cast members of the sketch comedy series "MADtv." Callen has co-authored the book "The Four-Hour Body" with Tim Ferriss, contributing his unique humor and insights to the best-selling fitness guide. He is also a prominent voice in the podcasting world, co-hosting the popular "The Fighter and The Kid" podcast. Beyond literature, Callen has made significant contributions to comedy through his stand-up specials and appearances in various television shows and films.

View Collection

Frequently Asked Questions