This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
September 24, 2019, marked a significant moment in the world of literature, as the impact of fiction on readers and society was highlighted in a recent study. The study found that people who read fiction consistently score higher on tests that measure empathy and altruism than those who don't.
One of the most iconic examples of the power of fiction is the Harry Potter series. Written by J.K. Rowling, the series has captivated readers of all ages with its magical world, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. The series has not only entertained readers but also inspired them to think critically and empathetically.
However, not everyone has been a fan of the series. Some parents and religious leaders have attempted to ban the books from libraries, citing their 'objectionable' content. But as Margaret Renkl, a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times, points out, these efforts are ultimately futile. Renkl shares a personal anecdote about her sister's experience with Judy Blume's 'Forever,' a book that was frequently challenged due to its depiction of a teen protagonist's first sexual experience.
Renkl's sister, Lori, was too young to read the book, but Renkl's attempt to downplay its appeal only made her more curious. As Renkl notes, 'Children don't read Harry Potter to learn incantations. They read Harry Potter because the stories are absorbing — intricate and exciting and funny — and because reading them makes real life seem more magical.'
Renkl's essay is a testament to the power of fiction to change lives and shape our understanding of the world. As she so eloquently puts it, 'The gift of brilliant fiction is the way it blurs the line between what has happened and what can happen, changing the nature of reality itself.'
