> what part of my book and body language makes you think I want to talk to strangers right now

That you're reading at a bar instead of reading at home.

I have a friend that reads at bars, because he likes random conversations but needs something to do in between them.

That's so alien to me - when I read at a coffee shop or a bar I'm there to interact and have the book as something to do in the interim.

Reading and drinking at home is free, and quiet.

> I'm there to interact and have the book as something to do in the interim.

That is not a possibility that ever even crossed my mind. If I see someone reading a book, I just assume that they don't want social interaction. I didn't even realize that I was making an assumption until I read these comments.

The book is like holding a up a sign saying "Here is a subject I'm interested in and might have recently learned some interesting things about, AMA."

Free start-up idea: dust covers that say "Please leave me the fuck alone"