Do people treat you differently depending on what you're reading?

Question

I read a wide variety of stuff, and I get different looks depending on what I've got with me at the moment...there's a big difference between carrying Anna Karenina and Shopaholic takes Manhattan. Have you ever had anyone judge you?

Answer 1

I've had people display contempt at my taste in books (Harry Potter -- Oh, I wouldn't read that! It's silly! or Stephen King, isn't he gory?). What interests me is, if they haven't read it, how can they say it's silly or gory?

But, yes, people judge your books by their covers and by extension, you by your books.

Answer 2

Yes, definitely! People always judge you differently depending on what books you're reading. Right now I'm reading an auto-biography about Romeo Dallaire, and people definitely see that as being studious, politically- and internationally-aware, etc etc. I tend to be more highly regarded in social circles and at work when people ask about the book I'm reading.

But, in between "heavier" books I am totally addicted to the Georgia Nicholson and Princess Diaries series! You really need a break sometimes from reading the classics or books with more depth, and I find some of these easy reads are really enjoyable.

I think that as long as people are reading, it's a good thing! But learning something while you're reading is good as well. Though that doesn't mean people who only read chick-lit are any worse than the rest of us!

Answer 3

I believe so. It is said that you can always tell the person by the book they are reading. I tend to read a wide variety as well, as do many multifaceted people. I've noticed a difference in the way that people speak to me depending on what I'm reading. However, I am just as guilty of making assumptions about a person based on their reading material at hand.

Answer 4

Oh sure! I experienced similar problems sometimes, and it was much worse since I am interested in political science. If ever you want to know what Hitler said and buy or borrow Mein Kampf to know it, then it is inescapable that some ones will behave strangely with you, eventually. The same problem is likely to arise with Das Kapital, by Karl Marx, or with books on the Church of Scientology, etc.

Since then I use to be discreet with such books so as not to be accused to be Fascist, Communist or Scientologist, etc. I do not buy or borrow such books in places where I use to go, for example.

Answer 5

I always have a book in my hand, especially during my commute to and from work. I have not noticed people giving me any looks, however, I am totally guilty of judging others by what they're reading, especially if it's something I've read myself.

Answer 6

I don't know, because when I am reading a book, I am usually too engrossed in it to notice the people around me looking at me. Plus, in my city, it is considered bad manners to strike up a conversation with someone while they are reading. I don't know if it's the same in other parts of the world.

Answer 7

That's an interesting question. If I see someone carrying a book that I have read and enjoyed, I will oftentimes talk to them about it. If I see someone carrying a book that seems light and frivolous, I guess that I will judge them.

Answer 8

yes of course because it's one thing to read coelho (no offense, it's just so easy to read that it's boring), and another thing to read the classics, like dostoievski. the most hilarious looks i got were when i was reading the marquis de sade - 120 days of sodom...people were like:"omg..."

Answer 9

I think they do, because don't we do it ourselves?