Are there specific types of fiction that are more effective for cognitive benefits and memory improvement?
literary fiction is especially effective due to complex characters, intricate plots, and multiple subplots
It challenges your brain to organize and recall details
Any engaging novel can also enhance cognitive skills by encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving
How do you recommend making time for reading fiction in a busy life?
Start small—just 15-20 minutes a day makes a difference
Read during commutes, before bed, or lunch breaks
Build a habit with small moments of reading—it adds up quickly without feeling like a big commitment
What would you say to someone who doesn’t enjoy reading novels?
Explore other forms of fiction like audiobooks or graphic novels.
Try different genres or styles to find what resonates.
Does the language of a book matter?
descriptive language engages your imagination
Emotional narratives help connect with characters
Reading in your first language can make it easier to immerse yourself in the story
Other languages can still be valuable but may require more mental effort to connect fully
Is there a certain genre of fiction that you recommend for someone just starting to read more novels?
-> there’s no universal answer!
Start with a genre that matches your interests:
Mysteries/thrillers: Fast-paced and engaging.
Literary fiction: Focuses on emotional and character-driven stories.
Fantasy: Sparks imagination and world-building.
Be guided by your taste in films
Is there a novel you can recommend?
depends on the genre you’re interested in:
Literary Fiction (well-known classics)
The Great Gatsby
To Kill a Mockingbird
Imaginative & Fantastical Worlds
Harry Potter (if you watched the movies)
Plenty of newly published book
The Silent Patient (very engaging story)
Tell me more about the study!
conducted by a neuropsychologist
-> study compared different stress-reduction activities & assessed their effectiveness in lowering participant's’ heart rates & muscle tension
reading was found to be the most effective activity for reducing stress -> stress levels were decreased by up to 68% in 6 Minutes
What do you like about novels?
offer a completely immersive experience
entertaining & thought-provoking -> they make you feel and think, can challenge your worldview or just provide comfort
perfect mix of art, emotion & escape
Is there a particular novel that you like?
Oh, absolutely!
-> Maybe you've heard about it, the book is all over social media, but it’s really good
A Little Life
fits basically into the genre of literary fiction, but also touches other genres and themes such as psychological drama or tragedy
It’s not an easy book by any means; in fact, it’s very emotional and, at times, almost unbearably heartbreaking. But it’s also one of the most beautifully written stories about friendship, trauma, and the complexities of human connection.
You become so invested in the characters’ lifes that it’s almost like you’re living it alongside him
What do you think about books that trend on social media?
interesting phenomenon
I don’t tend to read a lot of recommendations from those platforms -> mostly very shallow and predictable romances, which is not bad per se, but not my cup of tea
I think it’s amazinh how social media has made reading cool again -> helps getting younger generations excited about books
accessibility is great -> social media introduces readers to new genres and authors
-> anything that encourages more people to pick un a book is a win in my eyes
Last changed13 days ago