How to Read a Book " originally published in 1940 has become a rare phenomenon a "living" classic. It is the best & most successful guide to reading comprehension for the general reader. & now it has been completely rewritten & updated. You are told about the various levels of reading & how to achieve them -- from elementary reading through systematic skimming & inspectional reading to speed reading you learn how to pigeonhole a book X-ray it extract the author's message criticize. You are taught the different reading techniques for reading practical books imaginative literature plays poetry history science & mathematics philosophy & social science. Finally the authors offer a recommended reading list & supply reading tests whereby you can measure your own progress in reading skills comprehension & speed."