Sometimes, when discussing reading for pleasure, non-fiction can take a bit of a back seat. However, it is important to remember that non-fiction is as valuable as fiction, and there are many who prefer it. There is so much to be discovered through reading non-fiction and so much knowledge to be gained.
So, what are the benefits of reading non-fiction? Here are our top ten:
- It allows the reader to delve further into topics of personal interest
- It exposes the reader to new vocabulary
- It teaches new skills
- It enhances learning
- It introduces new ideas and concepts
- It develops critical thinking
- It helps the reader to understand the world around them
- It sparks curiosity
- It encourages discussion and debate
- It widens the reader experience
Non-fiction covers such a wide area of subject matter too; in fact, it basically covers everything there is to learn about! So, whether you are into trains, or cooking, or history, or languages, or art, or music, or sport, or crafting, or the lives of real people, or understanding more about human emotions, or . . . well, I think you get it, the list just goes on and on! Through non-fiction the reader can indulge themselves in whatever they are interested in or want (or need) to learn about. Obviously with some non-fiction, such as historical accounts, it is important that the reader understands they will be written from a certain perspective. However, this then helps the reader to develop analytical and critical thinking, as well as many other skills, including research and assessment skills.
When readers engage in a topic that they love, this then promotes a love of learning and with that, a higher chance of achievement. Plus reading about something you love is fun! And when reading is fun, it makes it an enjoyable experience that the reader wants to return to again and again.
And that can only be a good thing.
