The author presents reading as a deliberate art and begins by distinguishing reasons for reading— to learn, to evaluate, or to enjoy— and shows that each purpose requires different methods. He emphasizes slow, attentive reading, careful verification of meaning, and systematic note-taking for study or criticism, while warning against skimming and impatience. Practical techniques include fiches on ideas, structure, and style, and repeated slow rereading when necessary. Subsequent chapters apply these principles to various kinds of books, offering tailored approaches rather than a single universal method.