u/Just-Camera-2831

Hi everyone! I want to try getting into reading for leisure, but I’m struggling because I wasn't really exposed to books growing up. I can handle long texts and dense material for academic purposes/school work, but reading for "fun" feels like a completely different skill I haven't mastered yet. I can't really spend money on books right now since our family is on a tight budget, and my parents track our expenses, so I can’t just go on a Shopee haul or buy Kindle books. Where do you find free or budget-friendly books/stories online that aren't "boring"? How often do you read, and how did you build the habit without it feeling like another school chore? I'd appreciate any tips on apps, sites, or even just advice!

Coming from a "top" section, I’m used to a culture where everyone is hyper-focused on grades and competitions. I’m starting to wonder if I’ve been missing out on a different side of student life. For those who aren't in the "competitive" bubble, what do you value most about in your school experience? How do you handle academic stress without the pressure of maintaining a specific rank? Are teachers’ expectations significantly different? Let me know your experiences in the comments! Thanks for sharing