A few weeks ago, I heard a great
re-broadcast of the episode of the Diane Rehm Show on NPR about why fiction
matters. A recent study indicates that
fewer than half of all Americans are reading novels today. It suggests that
those who do read fiction are better able to understand the emotions of others.
The abstract of the study published in Science Magazine in October 2013 says
that the ability to understand others’ “mental states” and thus help us have
better relationships is improved by reading literary fiction, and more broadly, in
engaging with works of art. So,
basically, reading fiction makes us better people and helps us relate to others
in a more caring way. I’ve always
thought that, haven’t you?
If you are looking for some great fiction to read in the year ahead, here are a few lists that were published
recently. This list from Bustle is right
up my alley and I aim to read all these. I’ve read 5 out of the 11 listed. The New York Times’ 100 Notable Books of 2014
is a more ambitious list, but a good one. Enjoy!
