Kindle today released a global survey, conducted by Kelton Global in 13 countries, that shows the impact reading has on our happiness has no borders. Around the globe, readers find the timeless activity boosts happiness, fosters communication and improves our relationships – in fact, more weekly readers (71%) feel happier than those who read less frequently or not at all (55%).
A few other interesting findings from the survey:
- Over 70% of global survey participants admit they have skipped or put off another activity in order to read. In countries like Mexico, Brazil, India, Italy and Japan, more people would prefer to read than get extra sleep.
- More than 80% of global survey participants credit reading for improving their relationships. One in three readers even turn to books to solve their relationship problems.
- 41% of global couples say discussing books was one of the things that made them fall in love with their significant other.
- More than 65% of people around the world agree that reading is a major turn on.
- Around the globe, almost a third (30%) of global survey participants who are married or in a relationship say they would question their relationship based on the types of books or genres their partner chooses.
- More people would prefer to read than get extra sleep in countries like Brazil, India, Italy, Japan, and Mexico.
Michael Kozlowski has been writing about audiobooks and e-readers for the past twelve years. His articles have been picked up by major and local news sources and websites such as the CBC, CNET, Engadget, Huffington Post and the New York Times. He Lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.