Anyone else have trouble reading fiction?

Question

I have alot of trouble reading fiction. I feel like I'm not learning anything. This makes it almost impossible to get into a story. I do, however LOVE non-fiction and humor.

Answer 1

For me, it depends on the type of fiction. Have you tried well-written science fiction? Much of that is written by outstanding scientists in their fields, taking their knowledge into realms of assumption where theories or economics don't hold them back. These are often very well grounded in fact and you can learn a lot about science and spark your imagination -- well, at least I did.

Historical fiction is another area to investigate. Most well-done historical fiction is extremely well researched and founded on legitimate fact interwoven with either speculation or conversation to make it interesting. It can often lead you to do research on your own to verify information or just gather more insight on something you've read and would to know more about.

Hope this helps -- and enjoy reading in ANY form!!

Answer 2

Some people do have a hard time getting into fiction. Think of it as watching a movie. The movies you go see are not all non-fiction, I'm sure. You have to let yourself get into the story and get lost in it. When you read fiction, you are learning! You are learning how to relax, let go..you are looking into another person's mind and seeing the story they concocted. Sometimes, I have a hard time getting through the first few pages of fiction, but once I get a hold of the storyline, I'm hooked. I love all kinds of reading material--fiction, non-fiction, historical, humorous, etc. I will venture to guess you are very active and have a hard time sitting very long to relax. Reading can help you wind down.

Answer 3

That's why I stopped reading the newspaper.
However, as a serious answer to your question, perhaps a more discerning eye for what interests you would better serve your want to read fiction. There are plenty of things to learn reading fiction; you just have to know to what topic(s) are you drawn?
I like moralistic tales, which is why I love "To Kill A Mockingbird," and "Les Miserables." I also like Sci-Fi which includes some of the greatest fiction ever written (Stranger in a Strange Land, Foundation, I Will Fear No Evil, Dune by Heinlein, Asimov, Heinlein and Herbert, respectively).
Don't be afraid to branch out. You may have to wallow through a few titles before something hits, but you'll get there if you keep trying.

Answer 4

I have outgrown most fiction. I read mainly history but I do not retain it that well because I have no one to discuss it with. Everyone I know reads fiction (science-fiction, fantasy, or mystery).
I would still someone read fiction than not at all. After all, fiction does have to be based on non-fiction for it to be realistic so something can be gotten from it. But if people realised that the "truth really is stranger than fiction" they would start reading non-fiction!

Answer 5

Well i love to read anything I can get my hands on - whether it is science journals autobiographies or fiction.
it's interesting that you feel you don't learn anything by reading fiction . I guess the human emotion doesn't interest you. What about historical novels or philosophy couched in a fictional setting - you mean you can't learn in that format?
Is it because you don't like all the frivolous details?

Answer 6

No. I think I learn a lot from fiction. I read a lot of historical fiction and have learned a lot of history that way. Also, you learn a lot about the human personality, relationships and sociology from other types of novels. And you improve your vocabulary. There are also some very funny novels -- like Catch 22.

Answer 7

Maybe you're just not reading the right fiction. Give King Fortis the Brave a try if you are looking for an easy read, or Lord of the Rings if you are looking for something a little more challenging

Answer 8

Fiction really isn't for learning, it's for enjoyment and entertainment, but I have learned things from fiction books. I like non-fiction and humor, too, and there's nothing wrong with that. Have you tried historical fiction? You might enjoy that.

Answer 9

You can really learn a lot from Taylor Caldwell's books. She wrote "faction"....that's fact put into the form of fiction. She did very extensive research. She is not around anymore I don't think, but her books, if you can find them, teach a lot about the world and why things are they way they are now.

PILLAR OF IRON is about Marcus Tulius Cicero
I, JUDAS is about Judas Iscariot
ANSWER AS A MAN you learn a lot about power in America
CAPTAINS AND KINGS is about political history in America
DYNASTY OF DEATH is about the industrial revolution in America.
GREAT LION OF GOD is about St. Paul
GRANDMOTHER AND THE PRIESTS is about a grandmother who has several priests over for dinner and they tell her stories.

Hope this is helpful.

Answer 10

I hate fiction. It feels like a waste of time. I am a teacher, however, and of course we encourage the kids to read alot of novels. Then I go home and read a self help book, or biography, lol.