Does reading a book burn more calories than watching tv?

Yes and no. The act of simply existing burns calaries. Calories are a measurement of heat and more closely compare to a form of energy. Therefore, even a body at total rest consumes calories, albeit not necessarily a lot. At all times there is a significant amount of activity in a resting person, including brain activity, respiration, and circulation. Depending upon the amount of exertion on a given day, most bodies use 11 to 15 calories per pound of body weight. Not only does the amount of exertion affect this number, but also the amount of muscle to body weight. Most people, however, when asking about calorie expenditure, are talking about the additional use of calories that activity provides. Running provides difference caloric expenditure than swimming or playing soccer, for example. Reading provides little measurable additional caloric consumption, although there will be a tiny bit.