In Defense of Reading to Escape

“Imagination is the only weapon in the war against reality.”

— Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Reading as a form of escapism has always been the main reason I pick up a book.

For a long time, I felt embarrassed about that. When I heard others discussing the latest thought-provoking nonfiction or raving about the life-changing insights from their favorite self-development podcast, I’d shrink back. Sometimes my inner voice would whisper: You’re too dumb for all that. You just like stories. You don’t want to think too hard.

But over the years, as I’ve continued reading for pleasure and the sheer joy of being transported, I’ve come to a comforting realisation: I’m completely okay with being the kind of reader who uses books to escape. In fact, I’m proud of it.

It’s no surprise, really, that I’m that kind of writer too.

So today, I want to share a few reasons why reading for escapism is not only valid but incredibly valuable:

1. It gives your mind a break from reality.

Books can act like a pressure valve, releasing the steam of everyday stress. The right story can lift you out of a hard day, a painful moment, or an anxious spiral, even if just for a little while.

2. It nurtures your imagination.

The more you read fiction, the more your imagination expands. Worlds built in words spark creativity in ways that analytical texts sometimes can’t. Feeding your imagination is a kind of mental exercise, too—just of a different kind.

3. Fictional characters can teach us real-life lessons.

When you journey through a series, you often develop deep, lasting connections with the characters. And sometimes, those characters become quiet mentors. I’ve caught myself wondering, what would [insert beloved character] do? and then adjusting my own actions accordingly. This recently happened on one of my runs when I actually tried harder because I was thinking of the courage and strength that a particular female protagonist had.

4. Feel-good moments release serotonin.

Science says reading uplifting stories can boost your mood by triggering feel-good chemicals in the brain. That’s a win for mental health.

Of course, like anything, escapism can become unhealthy if it’s used to avoid important aspects of life completely. But in moderation, I’ve found it to be a lifeline. Having a good book to dive into during rough patches has made many difficult times a little more bearable. I actually reference some hard times in my life by the books I read during that period. They act like markers in my life.

So, how about you? Do you read to escape? Or do you turn to books for other reasons?There’s no judgment here—every reader’s journey is valid. I’d truly love to hear your thoughts.

Here are some of the series I have escaped into during 2025:

The Bone Season Series by Samantha Shannon rocks my world

Sarah J Maas is such a genius. I can't get enough of this series.

Even though there's a little too much 'spice' in this series for me, the world and the characters have me enthralled