The Fun in Reading: Exploring Reader Types and What Makes Books Enjoyable

When we talk about reading, we often focus on themes, genres, or the impact a book leaves. However, one element that stands at the core of why people read is simple: fun. If reading weren't fun, people wouldn’t spend hours on it. But what does fun really mean when it comes to reading? Inspired by a chapter about fun in games from a book I recently read on game design, I started thinking about how this idea applies to books. Fun, it turns out, is closely tied to how well a book aligns with a reader’s expectations and preferences.

Let’s break down what makes reading fun and how different types of readers experience this enjoyment.

What Is "Fun" in Reading?

Fun in reading is more than just light-hearted entertainment—it’s the sense of engagement, satisfaction, and connection that a reader feels. It’s when a book hits that sweet spot, matching exactly what a reader is looking for, whether it’s a captivating plot, well-developed characters, or intricate world-building. Fun, in this context, is about clicking with the reader’s personal preferences and type.

Types of Readers and Their "Fun"

Readers aren’t a monolith—different people enjoy different aspects of stories. In exploring reader types, I realized how varied the idea of "fun" can be.

Explorers – These readers dive into stories to immerse themselves in a richly detailed world. They find fun in exploring settings, cultures, and backstories that make the world feel real. For an explorer, a book is fun when they get lost in its world-building. Think of readers who adore J.R.R. Tolkien or George R.R. Martin—they’re not just reading for the plot, but for the way the author makes their fictional world come alive.

Social Readers – These readers are drawn to the emotional depth and themes a book explores. They enjoy stories that tackle complex or tragic topics and often seek out specific keywords or tropes in book descriptions. Social readers know exactly what kind of themes or tropes they enjoy and search for them. They’re likely the ones who will be invested in books like Nothing Sacred: Outspoken Voices in Contemporary Fiction because it resonates with the emotional journey they’re craving.

Character Readers – For character readers, the fun lies in connecting with well-developed, relatable characters. They treat characters like friends and feel invested in their growth and challenges. A character-driven reader will find enjoyment in books like Pride and Prejudice or The Secret History, where the characters are at the heart of the story, and their relationships and internal struggles drive the narrative forward.

Voice-Driven Readers – Some readers are less interested in plot or character and more captivated by the author’s unique voice. They may read anything by a particular writer because they feel a connection to the way that author writes, no matter the subject. These readers find fun in the rhythm and style of storytelling, often gravitating towards authors with a distinctive narrative style like Haruki Murakami or Neil Gaiman.

Misconceptions About Fun in Reading

One of the most common misconceptions is that only light or easy reads are fun. While some readers enjoy a breezy rom-com or fast-paced thriller, others find pleasure in dissecting complex, thought-provoking novels. Serious books can be just as enjoyable if they align with a reader's preferences. For instance, a reader might enjoy working through dense philosophical ideas in a book like 1984 or grappling with the moral dilemmas in a novel like To Kill a Mockingbird. Fun, in this case, is in the intellectual challenge or the emotional weight of the story.

Rediscovering the Fun in Reading

Sometimes readers say they’ve lost the joy in reading, but this is often because they’ve moved on from the topics or genres they used to enjoy. If you find yourself in this situation, it might be time to explore new genres, topics, or even tropes. When you’re no longer satisfied with your usual reads, it may mean that your interests have shifted.

In fact, this happened to me. At one point, I felt like I couldn’t find any books that grabbed my attention. That’s when I started writing my own stories—the kind of stories I wanted to read but couldn’t find. Writing my own book helped me reconnect with the fun I had lost as a reader.

Readers who crave excitement might rediscover fun in plot-driven books, where the action never slows down and there’s always something happening. On the other hand, readers who are more emotionally engaged will enjoy character-driven books where they can watch the characters grow, form relationships, and deal with life’s challenges.

Balancing Elements for a Wider Appeal

For authors, making a book fun for a broad audience means balancing plot, character development, and world-building. Some readers may be drawn to the intricacies of the setting, while others will care more about the emotional journey of the characters. A well-rounded book offers a little something for everyone, appealing to both plot-driven and character-driven readers, as well as those who love a unique author’s voice or a complex world.

Conclusion: The Fun Is in the Connection

Fun in reading is all about connection—whether it’s with the world, the characters, the themes, or the voice. There’s no single formula for a fun book, but the key is to understand what kind of reader you are and what you’re looking for. If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired by your current reading habits, try switching genres or exploring new tropes. You may find that the fun you thought was lost was just waiting for you in a new story.