Why Fiction is Better Than Nonfiction (And Why You Should Read It More)?

You ever pick up a book, flip a few pages, and feel like you’re being dragged through a history lesson you never signed up for? That’s how nonfiction feels most of the time. Don’t get me wrong, it has its place. But if you ask me, fiction is where the real magic happens.

Fiction isn’t tied down to facts. It’s pure imagination. Writers can build entire worlds from scratch—kingdoms ruled by talking animals, futuristic cities with flying cars, or tiny towns where nothing is as it seems. It’s limitless. Nonfiction, on the other hand, sticks to reality. Real people, real events, real facts. And let’s be honest, reality can be pretty boring.

One of the best things about fiction is how it pulls you in. You don’t just read about characters; you live through them. You feel their struggles, celebrate their victories, and sometimes, you even cry when they do. Studies even show that reading fiction helps develop empathy, making you more understanding of different perspectives. It teaches you to think critically about characters, plots, and conflicts in ways that nonfiction often doesn’t.

And let’s talk about escape. Life is already full of stress—work, school, the never-ending to-do list. Who wants to read about wars, political scandals, or someone’s childhood trauma when you’re trying to relax? Fiction lets you step into another reality, one that doesn’t remind you of everything that’s wrong with the world. It’s like a break for your brain, boosting creativity and reducing stress levels. In fact, research suggests that reading fiction can be as effective as meditation in calming the mind.

Now, nonfiction does have its perks. It expands your knowledge, teaches you real-life skills, and helps you understand history and the world around you. If you’re in the mood to learn, nonfiction is great. But most of the time, it feels like homework. If you’re reading for fun, why not pick up something that actually entertains you?

That doesn’t mean you should swear off nonfiction forever. A good mix is great. Memoirs can be inspiring, history can be fascinating, and self-improvement books can help you grow. But if you’re looking for something that makes you feel something—something that takes you on an adventure—fiction is the way to go. So next time you’re at the bookstore, go ahead and pick up that novel. Trust me, your brain will thank you.