Originally published in 1940, it was heavily revised for a 1972 edition, co-authored by Adler with editor Charles Van Doren.

In addition, it deals with genres (including, but not limited to, poetry, history, science, and fiction), as well as inspectional and syntopical reading.

Adler says that one may not disagree with an argument unless one can find fault in its reasoning, facts, or premises, though one is free to dislike it in any case.

He takes time to tell the reader about how he believes that the educational system has failed to teach students the art of reading well, up to and including undergraduate, university-level institutions.

In this part, Adler briefly discusses the differences in approaching various kinds of literature and suggests reading several other books.

At this stage, the reader broadens and deepens his or her knowledge on a given subject – e.g., love, war, particle physics, etc.

In the final pages of this part, the author expounds on the philosophical benefits of reading: "growth of the mind", fuller experience as a conscious being...