For years, experts have acknowledged that reading fiction builds vocabulary and improves empathy and compassion. But recent studies show that reading fiction also activates many other parts of the brain. In fact, a recent New York Times article, “Your Brain on Fiction” by Anne Murphy Paul, states that “Keith Oatley, an emeritus professor of cognitive psychology at the University of Toronto, has proposed that reading produces a vivid simulation of reality, one that ‘runs on minds of readers just as computer simulations run on computers.’” (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/18/opinion/sunday/the-neuroscience-of-your-brain-on-fiction)
This new information reaffirms to me the vital importance of the book choices we parents and educators make. Here are some questions to ask as you build—or choose from—a student reading list:
- Is this novel characterized by excellent writing? Does each complication and episode advance an interesting, believable plot? Does the text display high standards in grammar, style, and content?
- Are the themes or big ideas worth reading about? Does the author address the deep topics and questions of life with which generations throughout history have wrestled? For example, what rules our lives—fate or free will? What causes are worth living—or dying—for? What is true love? How can we fight oppression with honor? What lives on after us when we die?
- Are the main characters admirable? Does the story focus on a noble protagonist fighting for a worthy goal—one who fights temptation to become nobler? Are the characters well-developed? Do they grow and change as a result of the complications in the plot?
- Does the story uphold moral principles? Is good rewarded, and evil punished? Does the outcome show that a man reaps what he sows? Is evil treated as such and not lauded by the author?
- Should I avoid this story because of unnecessarily gratuitous elements? Is the story characterized by gory descriptions and high body counts? Or is any violence depicted inherent to the plot or genre—war story, murder mystery, western—and not glorified?
- Are there few objectionable elements? Do the incidents of bad behavior, violence, and mild bad language overwhelm the plot, or are they few in number?
By giving thought to these areas, we can be intentional to fill our children’s hearts and minds with all that is worthy and good.
Renee Ann Smith teaches literature in a Christian high school by day and writes stories by night. She reviews books and shares inspirational posts on her blog Doorkeeper at http://reneeannsmith.com/. You can also find her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ReneeAnnSmith.
