Why Do People Read Novels?

Question

I've always wondered why people bother reading novels. First, I don't think they help educate besides providing ideas that, by then, have become unoriginal. It might teach a person a few, big words, but what good is that unless one actually use the words in his or her daily life. They require little creativity, as novels tend to describe everything, but not as little as television. Basically, I have narrowed my uses for novels down to two choices: write one, or get an idea. Textbooks and books by professional professors are the only books I find worthwhile.

So, why do/don't you read novels? Why do you think people do?

Answer 1

I only read novels with fresh ideas, and trust me.. there are alot out there.

Also, some people read novels to 'escape' from their daily life.

A third reason, is as entertainment, or a way to pass the time.

Answer 2

i think it might be same reason people watch movies with made up stories. i prefer reading a factual book instead of a novel very much but some people just like to read a story and try to figure out the "deep meanings"

Answer 3

Some are interesting if you get into them

Answer 4

entertainment

^^plain and simple.

Answer 5

Why does everything that you read have to educate? Do you only watch documentaries on TV or at the theater? Some people would prefer to read for enjoyment and entertainment instead of watching TV. I do .

Answer 6

I read novels because, they are so much more interesting then television and movies. I love being able to know why a characters thought process and why they do what they do. There are very few T.V. shows or movies that get that in depth with characters. It's also more fun to think about how a character looks going off a description instead of just seeing it. Mental stimulation is something we all need as human beings. For some of us, television doesn't do it.

Novels allow you to envision another place and characters. Then journey with them. It has been proven that reading evokes more brain activity then television. People don't read novels to learn. They read them for entertainment.  

Answer 7

Because fiction is the only place where one can tell the truth, without being encumbered by the "facts."

And when it is well done, skillfully presented, and - shall I say - artful, fiction can be a window into the human soul that would simply not exist otherwise.

What greater pursuit can there be?

Answer 8

I read novels because they can open my mind and give me perspective.  They are a good escape, and I can often relate to them.  They are good sources for discussion.  I suppose it's a personal preference.  Some people do not enjoy stepping outside of reality for any reason, and that's o.k.

Answer 9

Everything you learn in life shouldn't be able to be read out of a text book. You should be able to learn things from your own mistakes and experiences, along with the other ones that you learn from reading novels.

Answer 10

Why do people watch videos? A picture may be worth a thousand words but I'd take a great buk over a movie anyday

Answer 11

Because they enjoy it?

Answer 12

To not be redundant:  professional professors.

haha, no really, It's fun.  Why do people dance?  Why do people sing? Same reason as why people read novels.  They find joy in it.

Answer 13

I read novels because they allow me to experience a fantasy that would otherwise not be possible. I think that people read them for much the same reasons; to explore the impossible.