Books lose more and more importance for young people more and more young people lose the pleasure of reading. Other media, such as television, Internet and videos, more interest among young people. While the relationship between reader and book can rebuild 15 minutes per day. That would have never imagined Johannes Guttenberg. The inventor of printing with movable metal type printing revolutionized the methods of book production and sparked a media revolution in Europe and worldwide. Books are accessible for everyone and a great opportunity to obtain education.

But the fame begins to crumble. Despite the success of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings books disappear more and more from the rooms of German adolescents. Only 47 percent of 14-to 19-year indicated in the recent consumer-analysis (VA) of the Bauer Publishing Group (Hamburg) and Axel Springer AG (Berlin) liked or especially likes to read books. 1995 60 percent had included in this age group read the favorite pastimes. Particularly bitter looks it out for the daily newspapers: only 30 percent of 14 to 19 year olds read like or particularly fond. All other media such as music, television, magazines, videos, cinema and Internet, are important for young people. Also the online newspapers (for example, Spiegel online or FAZ.NET) are used increasingly popular and as a source of information. But quite frankly, we want to send our beloved books in early retirement? Books are still the sachlichsten sources.

Reading is still an entertaining leisure activities. There are books in all age groups, and there is something for every reader’s taste. Already 15 minutes per day, regardless of whether novel, short story or thriller, can build a relationship between reader and book. Young people must themselves simply to read a book of their choice and rediscover the fun of reading. Often it happens that you then neglect the time and about 15 minutes reading out of curiosity. The key to success is the reading in a book. The duration is actually doesn’t matter, but 15 minutes are a good start, to be read in a book. Don’t forget: read the vocabulary and the General knowledge is expanding, what teenagers and also adults can very good use. This has been proved scientifically. Johannes Guttenberg has left us the book as a privilege. So let us not get it into oblivion, as recognition of the performance of this brilliant man. Lars-Henrik WACKER, Kaiserslautern