I think that they do, as long as you are paying full attention to them. Not just having them on in the background. That shows you are fully aware of what is happening in the story. I also think that graphic novels count as reading because even though its pictures. It’s still telling a story, and that’s what counts.
Audio books are not reading. Graphic novels are. Reading requires the attention of the eyes and mind. Audiobooks can be listened to while doing other things.
The scientific answer is that audiobooks and graphic novels DO count as reading! Studies have found that audiobooks engage our brains in a positive way, and comprehension rates through audiobooks are similar to that of reading from an ebook. But there is some evidence that reading from a good ol' fashioned paper book results in slightly better comprehension. The fact is, whether we listen to someone read a book, read it ourselves on a screen or page, or read a story that’s told along with illustrations, we’re doing our brains a big favor. The key, for me, is to always try to add something new, and stretch my experiences through stories. I never used to listen to audiobooks, but now I love them, both for relaxation and to learn something. I love reading my old paperback favorites, or skimming through a biography on my Kindle. And Tintin graphic novels are the best of every world! Just keep reading, keep reaching out for something new!
I believe both count a reading. When you are actively listening to someone else read a book it’s the same as reading the book. Except you aren’t actually reading real words on a page. Still your mind is actively engaged. I believe the same is true with graphic novels. Just with pictures.
I believe the benefits and reasons why reading is important is twofold. First, to disconnect from the mind and focus on something outside of ourselves. And two educational in nature. Reading stretches your brain muscles (creating new connections) so if your learning more about you and expanding your understanding of the world then I say it counts. 1 other thing, physically reading can help strengthen your cognitive processing, grammar and make you a better writer- so adding in a physical wordy book can help strengthen that muscle. 🙂
My short answer is no, audiobooks do not count as reading. To me audiobooks are a whole different genre - closer to a podcast or radio experience rather than reading. Reading “feels” different - like a different part of the brain is activated. That does not make it better or worse - just not the same. Graphic Novels are tricky! What do you think?
I do not think that audiobooks count as reading because you can listen to them while you are doing something else. Reading needs all of your attention and focus. Reading comics and graphic novels does too, so they count for me!
For me they don’t because I prefer sit and concentrate about what I am reading while audiobooks lead you to do other things and thus lose concentration. But it’s personal
Of course they do! In a certain sense, in regards to audiobooks. As for graphic novels, that’s a no-brainer: they 100% do!
Audio books improve your listening skills, but not the reading. Comics and mangas are better if you want to start with something that is a bit easier to read, they will make you read and also you get entertained by the illustrations they have. The best way to read is starting by topics of our interest and going to a place we feel comfortable, maybe listening to peaceful sounds.
Answers reflect the personal experiences of Fabulous community members. They are not medical or professional advice — for guidance about your health, talk to a qualified professional.