Ally: Andy, what are you reading?

Andy: "Harry Potter" by J.K. Rowling.

Ally: I saw you read this book last night in your bed.

Andy: Yeah, I was trying to finish this book last night, but I got sleepy when I read this book in my bed.

Ally: Sometime reading does make us sleepy. Do you know why?

Andy: Why?

Ally: When you read, your eyes move from the words across the page. Also your brain works hard to interpret the letters your eyes see and converts them into meaningful words, sentences, and paragraphs. As your brain works hard and your eye muscles tire, it's natural that they would need rest, leading to eyes slowly closing and sleep taking over.

Andy: That makes sense.

Ally: When you read, you usually do so in a comfortable location, such as your bed or a favorite chair. When the majority of your body gets into a resting state and you're in a comfortable position, the rest of your muscles often follow suit and a nap can easily ensue.

Andy: That explains why I quickly feel sleepy when I read in my bed.

Ally: It is also because your mind and body are tired and already ready for sleep when you wait until right before bedtime to read.

Andy: What can we do to stay awake while reading?

Ally: Well, there are some tips. First, find a place to read that's comfortable, but not too comfortable. Rather than lying down on your back, sit up in a comfortable chair. Second, use extra lighting to reduce eye strain. Third, make sure that the temperature isn't too hot. Reading in an environment that's too warm can make you sleepy in a hurry.

Andy: Very helpful tips. I will try them next time.

Ally: Great, hope they will work for you!

词汇:

Interpret  （动词）解释，诠释

Convert  (+into)  (动词）转换（成）

Meaningful （形容词）有意义的

Make sense  有道理

Tip （名词) 窍门

Strain (名词）过度疲劳

Temperature （名词）温度

Environment （名词）环境