Reading like a writer

Most people just read books. That is, they absorb the information, or enjoy the plot and characters, without thinking too much about how and why they work. It's a lot like watching a play, or a magic show. It's supposed to be relaxing, so sit back and enjoy.

Reading like a writer is more like being another magician who's watching the magic show. Some of the tricks, you already know how to do, so you watch to see if they're done smoothly and without everyone else seeing what the guy on stage...