Kids have plenty of ways to keep busy, and reading is a popular pastime. According to a 2022 survey by Scholastic, 72 percent of kids from ages 6 to 17 read a book for fun at least once a week. But when it comes to deciding which type of books to read, kids are split. About 48 percent say they like fiction and nonfiction the same.
Many readers love fiction because it allows them to relax by getting lost in an interesting story. Fiction readers also get to experience different characters’ thoughts and emotions. Experts say this helps kids become more empathetic, or sensitive to people’s feelings.
Although most people agree that reading fiction can be fun, many prefer nonfiction. They say reading about real people and events is a better use of their time. Readers who love nonfiction also point out that a good true story can be just as exciting and packed with emotion as a fictional one.