Should we read the Bible?
It's important to listen to God, recognizing Him and using His true Word. There are false Bibles. I won't say that you should read them. Listen to the Lord through His true Word and He provides light on all things.
For your edification and others I'll post a good message by Phil Stringer on the subject.
As to prayer, one should ask the Lord for His gift of everlasting life based on what He did to pay for our sins. That is a response in faith
from oneself, one's idol or anything that they are placing their trust in
to the true Savior Jesus Christ.
After that, there should be regular prayer to the Lord.