Episode 289: Why Fiction Makes You a Better Person (Why We Don't Hate ALL Books!)

Jun 26, 2025

Discover the transformative power of fiction and how it fosters personal growth and empathy. The hosts share their journeys back to reading, discussing the joy it brings and how narratives deepen understanding of complex issues. They highlight the value of flawed characters in children's literature, promoting important conversations about social behavior. The discussion encourages readers to engage with diverse stories for better mental health and relational awareness, culminating in an inspiring poem about women's voices and empowerment.

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ANECDOTE

Connor's Reading Reawakening

Connor got back into reading about a year and a half ago, setting a goal of 30 books and finishing over 40.
He explored sci-fi for the first time and enjoyed its complex societal and ethical questions.

ANECDOTE

Joanna's Fiction Reconnection

Joanna rekindled her love for fiction by reading Mistborn and The Mountain in the Sea after a long fiction hiatus.
These books helped her appreciate new perspectives and eased her back into fiction enjoyment.

ANECDOTE

Frustration Sparked Reading

Rebecca re-entered reading fueled by frustration with a popular fantasy book she disliked.
This motivated her to explore better books, reigniting her passion for reading.

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A Ballad of Song and snakes

Suzanne Collins

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Wings of Fire

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

This autobiography tells the story of Dr. Kalam's life, from his childhood in Rameswaram to his career as a scientist and later as the President of India. It highlights his perseverance and contributions to India's space and missile programs, offering valuable insights into leadership and personal growth.

The secret garden

Frances Hodgson Burnett

The Secret Garden tells the story of Mary Lennox, a young girl who is sent to live with her reclusive uncle in Yorkshire after the death of her parents. At Misselthwaite Manor, Mary discovers a secret garden that has been locked away for ten years following the death of her uncle's wife. With the help of a friendly robin, Martha Sowerby, and her brother Dickon, Mary sets out to restore the garden. This journey transforms Mary from a spoiled and ill-tempered girl into a kinder and more independent person. The garden also has a rejuvenating effect on her sickly cousin Colin, and ultimately brings healing and reconciliation to the entire family[2][3][4].

A Court of Thorns and Roses

Sarah J Maas

In this novel, Feyre Archeron, a young huntress, kills a wolf that turns out to be an immortal faerie. As punishment, she is taken to the faerie realm of Prythian by Tamlin, a High Lord of the Spring Court. Initially hostile, Feyre's feelings for Tamlin transform into a fiery passion as she adapts to her new home. However, an ancient, wicked shadow threatens the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it to save Tamlin and his world. The book is a retelling inspired by fairy tales such as 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'Tam Lin', and it combines elements of romance, adventure, and high fantasy[2][4][5].

The Hunger Games

Suzanne Collins

Set in a post-apocalyptic North America known as Panem, The Hunger Games follows Katniss Everdeen, a 16-year-old girl from District 12, who volunteers to participate in the 74th Hunger Games to save her younger sister Prim. Alongside Peeta Mellark, the other tribute from District 12, Katniss must use her hunting skills and wits to survive the arena. The Games are a tool of oppression by the Capitol to remind the districts of their defeat in a past rebellion. As Katniss and Peeta navigate the treacherous arena, they also manipulate the audience and sponsors to gain advantages, while sparking the beginnings of a rebellion against the Capitol's tyrannical rule.

Little Women

Louisa May Alcott

Written by Louisa May Alcott, 'Little Women' is a semi-autobiographical novel that details the lives of the March sisters in 1860s Massachusetts. The story is loosely based on Alcott's own childhood and that of her three sisters. It explores themes of domesticity, work, and true love, and is known for its portrayal of the sisters' distinct personalities and their struggles with societal expectations. The novel follows their experiences with poverty, illness, and personal growth, and it has been praised for its realistic and empathetic depiction of family life and the challenges faced by women during that era.

Ramona

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Beverly Cleary

Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is a beloved children's book by Beverly Cleary. It follows the adventures of Ramona Quimby, a mischievous and imaginative young girl. Ramona's experiences at school, at home, and in her neighborhood are relatable and humorous. The book explores themes of family, friendship, and growing up. Cleary's writing style is known for its warmth, humor, and realistic portrayal of childhood. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 is a classic of children's literature that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

A Wizard of Earthsea

Ursula K. Le Guin

The novel is a bildungsroman that explores Ged's process of learning to cope with power and come to terms with death. It is set in the fictional archipelago of Earthsea, where magic is based on a delicate balance maintained by wizards. Ged's story involves his education at a school of wizardry, his struggles with a shadow he inadvertently summons, and his journey to confront and merge with this shadow. The book is renowned for its philosophical themes, including the power of names and the balance of the universe, and is part of the six-volume Earthsea Cycle.

Mistborn

The Final Empire

Brandon Sanderson

In this epic fantasy, Brandon Sanderson introduces a world called Scadrial, where ash constantly falls from the sky, plants are brown, and supernatural mists cloak the landscape every night. The story follows Vin, a young half-Skaa orphan with the rare ability to become a Mistborn, and Kelsier, a charismatic thief who recruits Vin to join a group of Allomancers in a high-stakes plan to overthrow the divine despot, the Lord Ruler. The novel explores themes of rebellion, trust, and the complexities of a well-crafted magical system based on metals. The world-building is rich and detailed, with a focus on the political intrigue and the harsh realities of a dystopian society.

CHARLOTTE'S WEB

E. B. White

Charlotte's Web, written by E.B. White, is a timeless children's classic that tells the story of Wilbur, a pig, and Charlotte, a spider, who form an unlikely friendship. The story is set on a farm and revolves around the efforts of Charlotte to save Wilbur from being slaughtered. Through their relationship, the book explores themes of friendship, courage, self-sacrifice, and the natural cycle of life and death. The novel is known for its vivid depiction of farm life and its ability to address complex emotions and themes in a way that is accessible to children. The book has been widely acclaimed and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide since its publication in 1952.

Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

Susanna Clarke

The novel is set in a world where magic once thrived in England but has since disappeared. It follows the lives of two magicians, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, who bring magic back to England. Jonathan Strange is a young, adventurous, and impulsive magician, while Mr. Norrell is a cantankerous bookworm who wants magic to be better regulated. Their differing approaches to magic lead to a series of conflicts and adventures, including involvement in the Napoleonic wars and interactions with fairies. The story explores themes of magic, history, and the complexities of human relationships.

Mountain and the Sea

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Ray Naylor