Leading question, hmm?
What makes me read is curiosity first and foremost. I have to find out what happens to the characters in the story.
Or I have to find out what an expert is imparting to me via their non-fiction work.
I read to escape worries and cares for while. I read because I love stories and finding out things. I read because it is a privilege and pleasure to be able to do so.
Reading fuels the imagination and that is why I think all writers should read widely and regularly, inside and outside of their chosen genre.
I’ve had story ideas come to me from reading non-fiction. Occasionally a blog idea will occur to me from reading something in a story.
I also see reading as supporting the industry I am part of - makes great sense to me.
Besides, as we go into autumn in my part of the world, what is better than curling up with a hot chocolate and a good book or something fascinating on your Kindle?