Reading fiction is a pleasure, a leisure-time activity for me and countless other people. Because it is fiction, the author can go virtually anywhere with the story, and because fiction’s sole purpose is to entertain (like your favorite TV show), the reader does not have to concentrate or study or worry that he or she is not doing it right. I’ve often had people tell me that they really want to start reading, or want to read more, but they can’t seem to find anything. Over the years I’ve come to the conclusion that this problem all goes back to a person’s school experience. They are still in the student frame of mind, where they were told what to read and then had to report on it or be tested on it.
So here’s a thought: It’s not an assignment! You don’t have to finish it just because you started it; you don’t have to read it just because you feel like you “should” and you don’t have to read it because someone you like recommended it.
As odd as this sounds, sometimes it’s hard for us to decide whether we should continue reading a book or stop in the middle. Once a very smart lady in the library provided a rule of thumb for me. She said if she finds herself putting off her reading to do housework, she realizes she’s not enjoying it. So if you find yourself mopping the floor or watching the new version of Magnum, PI and telling yourself you’ll get back to your book later, then maybe it’s time to find another book!
Another clue, for me at least, is the cast of characters. I have to like at least one or two of them – identify with them in some way – or I won’t care about what happens to them. A few years ago I read Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, a huge bestseller. I was disgusted with the two main characters and thought they were getting exactly what they deserved. My curiosity about how they would get their comeuppance made me stay to the end, but normally if I don’t like the “hero” of the story I don’t finish.
Sometimes it’s just the subject of the story that does not engage us. For instance, if you’re reading a story about a fictional coroner who helps solve murders, but the whole concept of what happens during an autopsy is something you’d rather not know about, then maybe it’s time to stop and find another story. There are too many good things waiting out there for you to spend time on something you’re not enjoying. So to reiterate our original point: The only legitimate reason to read a fiction book is because you really like it and you can’t wait to find out what happens next. Don’t let anyone else dictate your reading choices because you are your best judge. Happy reading!
