Why do I have difficulty reading novels?

Question

I have a hard time reading and comprehending novels. I have no problem with nonfiction books on interesting subjects, but novels are hard to follow.

Why is that?

Answer 1

You probably have a sort of Adult ADD. Either that or maybe you're not interested in that type of book. Stick to what you like. Nobody is saying that you have to read novels. I on the other hand, can't get enough of novels. They are my entertainment, Even more then TV!

Answer 2

I use to be the same. Just the facts. I had to read so much, concerning my job and didn't care to read at home. When I retired I began to read books that were referred by friends. They were historical romance novels. My daughter works at the library. I began keeping a log of the books I read because I became obsessed. I retired in 96 and to date I have read 302 books. I find books as an escape from the real world for a short time. I was never able to relax until I started reading. I would like to recommend your first book. It's called The Meeting Place By Janette Oke & T Davis Bunn. I can't remember where Jannette lives but T Davis Bunn, I think he lives in England. I guarentee you will like it and also learn some very interesting history about the French, English and the French who settled in Louisiana . I think it took place during the time of King James.

Answer 3

Novels often ask the reader to think analytically and to recognize symbolism and foreshadowing, as well as to suspend their disbelief and care about the characters that are presented to them and what happens to them in the story. Few people are in the mood to read that way all the time. I used to only read nonfiction as well, but now am reading predominantly novels. I also work at a library and can tell you that it's not abnormal for some people simply to not like fiction. Many, if not most people who read frequently go through reading phases of favoring one genre for awhile and then maybe moving to another eventually. Reading phases can last for years, too. My dad, for instance, has only ever read mysteries and naturalist/history books for his entire life. My mom reads only biographies of women and nature books. My sister only reads fantasy fiction. My cousins only read romance novels. It all depends on the person.

Answer 4

It might be the topic or the writing style, which is bound to be different from non-fiction such as historical accounts or biographies.
Try reading short stories of 10 to 20 pages long, like the ones by Maupassant, for example. Or find a good crime fiction book (often murder mysteries) that has won awards, where you have to pick up the clues as to 'who did it' before you find out at the end of the book.
I suspect the books you have been reading aren't exactly 'page-turners'.

Answer 5

Same with me. I guess it's because the contents/subject doesn't hold our interests. I've tried many times over one book and just couldn't get to read through it. Have absolutely no problems with motivational/self help books and fictions.

Answer 6

Maybe they just don't interest you. I'm the same way...I prefer nonfiction books because I like to learn about things.

Answer 7

Give up reading, stay on the net.