At this time of year, as families across the globe gather together to celebrate the season, we often find ourselves reminiscing about our own childhoods and our family traditions. One of my fondest childhood memories is my mother reading me stories at bedtime. Memories of the comfort of being together and the excitement of the story led to my becoming an avid reader throughout my life. Cozying up with a book is still one of my favorite activities, not least because it brings back so many positive memories across the years. Creating these kinds of family memories is foundational for helping our children build more positive, empathic relationships—perhaps this holiday season, you can give your family the gift of reading by forming a family book club.

Unfortunately, it seems we are reading less than ever. The New York Times, among many other media sources, reports that kids in the United States rarely read books anymore, even in English class in school. They read short stories, excerpts, and essays, but not full........

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