Fiction Boosts Brainpower!

Why Fiction Boosts Brainpower

Listen closely fiction fans, this one's for you! If you're that person who spends an entire day binge-reading your favorite series, then goes to bed feeling wonderfully accomplished, you have more than a few great reasons to be. Studies have shown that reading fiction can boost brainpower and empathy that readers have for other people, not to mention expand your imagination. So here are a few reasons why I think reading is brain therapy!

1. Fiction is Entertaining!

Okay, so this is the one that gets the most grief. But hey, there's something to be said about a genre that can entertain as well as fiction can. There are moments in our lives where all we need is a little relaxation and entertainment, and fiction is the best way to do just that. And it lets you interpret the story yourself, leaving room for all sorts of discussion and imaginative talk after! 

2. Reading Stories Builds Character

No pun intended. The more POVs you read from the more you ask questions about yourself: who am I? What would I have done in this situation? Who do I relate to in this novel? And while no one should base their view of themselves off of fictional characters, it does help you to explore who you are by seeing through the eyes of another for a few hundred pages. 

3. Reading Helps you Write Better

This one is by far my favorite. Studies show that learning to read early and keeping a steady reading list as you grow will help you become a better writer. And it's true! Every time I'm stuck on a scene I'm writing, taking a break and picking up a good book usually leaves my mind wide open to ideas. 

4. Reading Boosts Imagination

Let's face it, a good sense of imagination is a key to every world you could ever want. And where does it all begin? Books. Especially fiction books. By reading a little fiction every day we can open our brains to realms we didn't even know existed, and find out just how strong our imaginations can be. How cool is that? 

I hope those few reasons were an incentive to go pick up a good fiction book with no remorse. Let your imagination run free for a few hours, you deserve it!

Happy reading!