I was having lunch with my ex husband and daughter yesterday. (Hey–he was buying.)
In casual conversation he said. “I met a woman online yesterday. She said she doesn’t read or cook.” Then he said this was a dealbreaker.
Huh. He had me. I read voraciously and cook and bake. He just threw it all away.
Just thought this was mundane and pointless. 
Of course, the next time he comes to your house you absolutely must be in the kitchen reading with his favorite meal simmering on the stove and his favorite cake fresh from the oven. Tell him you have a date coming over for dinner and you must get this book read before then so you can discuss it over dessert. 
I dunno. I think for many here not reading would be a deal-breaker.
*(We) Men can be idiots sometimes. But as a long time woman dater I gotta ask, what do you read?
As for cooking, my ex used to love to cook great, exotic dishes. Trouble was it cost about 50 bucks a meal to buy all the ingredients and new spices required for the job when all I really wanted was comfort food.
Still and all, I feel for you.
*[sup]Excepting me of course, the sterling example[/sup]
Not that I don’t sympathize, but I don’t think it’s particularly ironic. Sure, I don’t want someone who doesn’t read or cook, but it’s not like reading and cooking is enough.
Exactly. My ex has many amazing qualities that I require in a mate. My current GF lacks a few of those, but I’m now with who I want to be with. Passion and attraction make up for a lot.
Take it as a compliment and then forget it.