Introduction
There are many benefits to reading both fiction and non-fiction books. However, deciding which is the more beneficial of the two is a topic of debate. The two kinds of books, the latter being fact-based, and the former entailing some level of imagination, along with this basic defining characteristic, typically present information and employ different approaches in how they engage their readers. Comparing the impact or use of fiction and non-fiction books to the lives of their readers can help one to understand how beneficial they are to readers.
Educational and Fantasy Books
Educational books are typically non-fiction (at least, in intention) while fantasy books are an excellent example of fiction. Studies show that reading fiction powerfully coordinates with vital cognitive functions as well as emotional intelligence, as it enables readers to develop better creative thinking as well as improved judgment (Relojo, 2016). According to Paul (2012), studies have shown that reading certain statements in fictional books associated with smells, sounds, and other senses, cause readers to more intimately connect the reading with their personal lives and hence, to better understand their environments. On the other hand, educational books offer readers information. Using an educational book, a reader can acquire skills that have direct benefit to them in their real lives. They are in fact, a pillar of modern society, both in terms of governance, architecture, and even philosophical principles (Paul, 2012).
Boosting Imagination
Reading fantasy books develops readers’ imaginations and can improve their ability to make spontaneous or unplanned decisions. Reading fantasy books allows people to learn how to approach societal challenges from different perspectives that they may never have experienced personally, yet to take them on a more intimate, personal way (Paul, 2012). Fiction is also associated with certain health benefits. It can relieve stress and reduce symptoms of dementia and depression (Relojo, 2016). Fiction can help develop readers’ ability to feel compassion and empathy, and help them to discover new ideas through individualized interpretation of the content they read (Paul, 2012). Fantasy helps develop reading skills as people who love to read them more for pleasure and are exposed to different vocabularies in a non-stressful way that encourages them to pick up the vocabulary in a passive way (Beglar, Hunt & Kite, 2011). Fantasy helps us to understand our own identities and gives us insight into other people’s worldviews that we otherwise might have had difficulty internalizing.
Informing the Readers
On the other hand, educational books are written to inform their readers. Educational books allow readers to gain knowledge in a topic. Like fantasy, they expose readers to new vocabulary, which is more likely to be consciously and deliberately learned by the readers (Schickedanz & Collins, 2013). Educational books may expose readers to technical information with specific and clearly defined meanings. This helps readers to develop abilities and skills they might never have otherwise had. Educational books encourage critical thinking skills, all the more when readers are required to answer questions at the end of chapters or sections to gauge their understanding and comprehension (Schickedanz & Collins, 2013). Educational books provide readers with both concrete and abstract information concerning the world. The information is compiled from reliable sources and is crucial to societal development. These books also encourage personal investigation and self-discovery (Owusu-Acheaw, 2014).
Conclusion
Fantasy books are constructed from human imagination and are beneficial in that they permit us to intimately experience realms of knowledge we might never otherwise be exposed to. Educational books provide readers with an understanding of concrete information that can be used in ways both technical and non-technical. They both inform and impart knowledge, and they both elicit participation through activities that bring pleasure and motivation to the reader. To choose one form as being more valuable than the other is to choose whether the heart or the lungs are more important to living. Both genres benefit their readers and help them to become more complete.
References
Beglar, D., Hunt, A., & Kite, Y. (2012). The effect of pleasure reading on Japanese university EFL learners’ reading rates. Language Learning, 62(3), 665-703. Pg. 2-4.
Owusu-Acheaw, M., & Larson, A. G. (2014). Reading habits among students and its effect on academic performance: A study of students of Koforidua Polytechnic. Library Philosophy and Practice, 0_1. Pg. o3.
Paul, A. M. (2012). Your brain on fiction. New York Times, 17. Pg. 1-3.
Relojo, D. (2016). The Powerful Benefits of Reading Fiction. Welldoing.org. retrieved from: https://welldoing.org/article/powerful-benefits-reading-fiction. (Accessed 22 May 2017).
Schickedanz, J. A., & Collins, M. F. (2013). So much more than the ABCs: The early phases of reading and writing. National Association for the Education of Young Children. Pg. 74-78. Excerpt accessed at: https://www.naeyc.org/books/so_much_more_than_the_abcs/excerpt.
Other Aspects Worth Exploring in Academic Writing
This short essay sample gives you a general idea of what someone might choose to write about. Remember that our writers are always here to support you whenever you run out of creative ideas, don’t know how to put a book title in an essay, or lack time to finish your essay by the required deadline. With us, you won’t even need to use a writing prompts generator or a title generator for essay. Meanwhile, here are some more great ideas to explore in your essay. Don’t forget that we also have a free AI essay checker. Meanwhile, here are some more great ideas to explore in your essay.
- Cognitive development. Reading stimulates the brain, enhancing memory, vocabulary, critical thinking, and analytical skills. It can also improve focus and concentration.
- Emotional intelligence and empathy. Engaging with fictional characters allows us to experience different perspectives and emotions, fostering empathy and understanding of human behavior.
- Creativity and imagination. Books spark creativity by taking us to new worlds and introducing innovative ideas. They can also fuel our own imaginations and inspire personal expression.
- Stress reduction and relaxation. Immersing oneself in a good book can be a form of escapism, providing a break from daily pressures and offering a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Communication skills. Reading exposes us to different writing styles and vocabulary, improving our own writing and communication skills.
Impact of reading on different aspects of life
- Personal growth. Reading can challenge our perspectives, broaden our horizons, and inspire personal development. It can help us discover new interests, passions, and goals.
- Social connection. Books can connect us to different cultures, generations, and communities. Sharing reading experiences and discussing them with others can foster social bonds and meaningful conversations.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving. Reading exposes us to complex ideas and arguments, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It can help us analyze information, identify biases, and reach informed opinions.
- Education and career. Reading plays a crucial role in academic success and professional development. It provides knowledge and skills relevant to various fields, enhances communication and critical thinking, and can prepare individuals for future careers.
- Lifelong learning. Reading cultivates a love for learning that can last a lifetime. It encourages curiosity, exploration, and the continuous desire to expand our knowledge and understanding.
Photo by Aaron Burden from Unsplash
