Reading is not a natural human ability; the brain lacks innate circuitry for it. Instead, over thousands of years, our brains have co-opted existing areas involved in vision, auditory processing, language, attention, and affect to build a dedicated reading network. Early writing systems, like Sumerian cuneiform and Egyptian hieroglyphics around 3300 BC, show the historical development of these complex symbols.

Reading is a 'whole brain' process, activating all four lobes of the cortex. It associates letters and words with sounds and meanings, fundamentally altering brain activity, structure, and connectivity. Different writing systems also shape the brain uniquely; for example, logographic systems like Chinese characters engage areas of visual memory and association more intensely than alphabetic languages like English. This is exemplified by a bilingual stroke patient who lost the ability to read Chinese but retained English proficiency.

Reading not only affects the brain but also has physical and emotional impacts. The anterior insula, responsible for gastrointestinal sensations and discomfort, is also linked to empathic processes. This connection means readers can physically 'feel' the emotions and experiences of characters, showcasing the deep engagement reading fosters.

Modern technology significantly impacts reading habits. Reading on screens often involves passive skimming, interruptions, and a greater susceptibility to misinformation. Studies suggest that early and excessive digital exposure in children can negatively affect attentional executive function and academic performance, leading to a constant need for stimulation and an inability to tolerate boredom.

While some monitored screen time can be beneficial, the antidote to the challenges of the digital world is to return to the basics: immersing children in a 'reading life.' Parents and teachers play a crucial role in modeling and fostering a love for reading. Deep reading not only changes individual brains and identities but also contributes to a more thoughtful and capable society, enabling the building of 'bigger, more beautiful futures'.