RStress reduction, vocabulary development, increased empathy, improved memory… Reading offers many benefits, whether it’s a thriller, a manga, a comic book, a classic of French literature or the latest romantic novel.
Some people read a book a week, others a book a month or a year. But how many books can you read in a lifetime? Be careful, the answer may depress some (or help you make radical choices in your to-read pile…)
How many books do we read on average?
On average, the French read 22 books in 2023, according to the National Book Center, and 89% of French people read at least one book in the year. The age groups that read the most are 15-24 year olds, 25-34 year olds and over 65s. Women read slightly more than men.
Starting to read independently at age 7 and having an average life expectancy (85.3 years for women and 79.4 years for men in 2024, an average of 82.35 years), this represents approximately 1811 books during his lifetime.
For those who read more intensively, about 50 books per year, the total could reach about 4,117 books. Those who read up to 80 books per year could reach a total of 6,588 books over their lifetime.
How many books are there?
By some estimates, 160 million unique titles have been published since the widespread adoption of printing in the 15th century, according to The Economist.
How fast do we read?
The average adult reads between 180 and 230 words per minute. A good reader already reads at 300-350 words per minute. A good speed reader can reach 500-600 words per minute without losing much in comprehension. Increasing reading speed usually comes at a cost in terms of comprehension.