Read smarter, not just more. This timeless guide shows you how to get the most from any book—from quick skims to deep, analytical reads. Adler and Van Doren outline practical steps you can use tonight on your TBR: how to ask the right questions, mark a book, spot an author’s arguments, and compare ideas across multiple texts.

Why you’ll love it

• Actionable framework: the four levels of reading—elementary, inspectional, analytical, syntopical—turn vague “close reading” into a clear process.

• Works for every genre: rules for reading practical books, history, science, philosophy, literature, and more.

• Instant upgrades: how to outline a book, find the author’s terms & propositions, and decide if a book is true (or useful).

• Book-club gold: better questions, better discussions, better retention.

What you’ll learn

• How to x-ray a book (structure at a glance)

• When to skim vs study

• How to mark a book to think on paper

• How to read several books on one topic (syntopical reading)

• How to judge clarity, soundness, and relevance in any argument

Details

• Authors: Mortimer J. Adler & Charles Van Doren

• Genre: Nonfiction / Reading, Study Skills, Education

• Language: English

• Condition: New

• Format/edition: See options on this page (classic revised edition details may vary)

Perfect for

Students • lifelong learners • book clubs • writers • anyone who wants more insight per page.

How to Read a Book — Adler & Van Doren. The classic, practical guide to reading at four levels—skim to deep analysis—so you understand and remember more from every book. English; new copy.