Special Edition | Part 2: 10 Reasons to Read (Fiction)

In this Special Edition episode of the Books for Men podcast, host Douglas Vigliotti discusses the 10 reasons why men should read fiction. He acknowledges that the publishing industry and writers do not cater to male readers due to a lack of an economic incentive, leading to an ever-widening gap of men not reading fiction. Vigliotti introduces his value proposition theory on why most men prefer nonfiction, but insists the real value of fiction is unseen—similar to soft skills, the more important but less developed skills for many people. He believes reading fiction promotes empathy for people different from oneself, teaches how to be alone with one's thoughts, encourages critical thinking and individuality, and strengthens the imagination muscle. He also argues that the form (reading) allows for easier engagement with difficult ideas and differing opinions, something people should be doing more of, and promotes delayed gratification in a society that wires people for short-term thinking and attention, improving focus. Vigliotti concludes by urging listeners to share the episode and support the podcast's mission of inspiring more men to read.If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting the podcast. Any of the three things below will help provide awareness for the initiative—inspiring (more) men to read and bringing together men who do. (Ladies, of course, you're always welcome!)Share with a friend or on social mediaSubscribe or follow on your favorite podcast platformLeave a rating or reviewVisit BooksforMen.org to sign up for the Books for Men newsletter, a monthly round-up of every episode with full book and author info, all the best quotes, and newsletter-only book recommendations!