The act of reading has undergone a significant transformation for many students, as they navigate the demands of academic life and extracurricular commitments. For Sareena Naganand, a sophomore from Piscataway, New Jersey, the immersive experience of getting lost in a story has become increasingly rare. On February 1, 2026, she reflected on her relationship with literature while engrossed in Kelly Rimmer‘s historical fiction novel, *The Things We Cannot Say*, which explores the German invasion of Poland during World War II.
As Naganand flipped the pages, she was struck by a pivotal moment in the book: the unexpected death of a main character’s brother. This shocking turn of events reminded her of the deep emotional investment that reading once brought her. In high school, she frequently lost herself in impactful narratives, such as Trevor Noah‘s *Born a Crime* and Paul Kalanithi‘s *When Breath Becomes Air*. These books not only entertained her but also shaped her understanding of the world.
Naganand’s passion for reading began in middle school. She recalls the summer after sixth grade, when she was captivated by Markus Zusak‘s *The Book Thief*. The novel ignited her interest in history, particularly regarding World War II, prompting her to explore online museums and articles. Yet, as time progressed, she found it increasingly challenging to disconnect from her academic responsibilities.
The pressures of schoolwork often intrude on her reading time, as reminders of homework and studying linger in her mind. “When I get immersed in a story,” she explains, “the images of characters facing their biggest obstacles are replaced with benzene molecules,” a reference to her organic chemistry studies. This sense of guilt regarding productivity has created a barrier to fully enjoying literature.
Despite these challenges, Naganand continues to appreciate reading. She believes that to truly benefit from literature, one does not need to enter a focused flow state. Instead, she suggests that even brief moments spent with a book or a reflective article, such as those featured in *The New Yorker*, can accumulate over time and provide valuable insights.
Naganand acknowledges that she may never fully eliminate the guilt associated with reading. Yet, she also recognizes the profound impact literature has had on her life. Through texts like *When Breath Becomes Air*, she has envisioned a future at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and the humanities. *The Secrets Between Us* by Thrity Umrigar has left a lasting impression, showcasing the beauty that can exist amid adversity.
Reading has not only inspired Naganand but has also shaped her values and motivations. She finds solace in the characters and narratives that provide clarity during stressful times. The stories she has encountered continue to resonate with her, guiding her decisions and allowing her to turn the page in her own life narrative.
As she reflects on her journey, Naganand emphasizes the importance of maintaining a connection to literature. In a world filled with distractions, she encourages others to embrace the joy of reading, finding moments of inspiration and understanding through the pages of a book. In her column, “The Daily Chai,” she shares insights on discovering happiness in life’s simple moments, reminiscent of the warmth one feels while enjoying a cup of tea.
