Yes, when I read something outside my comfort zone, it is likely to be non-fiction. Why is non-fiction kind of weird for me to read? Because I love romance, thrillers, police and FBI procedurals, legal mysteries, all things that spur emotion. And let’s face it, most non-fiction doesn’t really make your heart jump or adrenaline spike. Or the heart go pitter-patter. But once in a while I do pick up a non-fiction book. But only when the subject matter really (really, really) appeals to me.
Examples? American Caesar (William Manchester) was a biography of a complicated Douglas Macarthur. I’d always wondered what the truth was between him and President Truman and why Macarthur’s men loved him in WWI and seemed to hate him in WWII. Flags of our Fathers (James 
Bradley) told the story of the U.S. Marines at Iwo Jima. This was a hard book to read at times, but my father-in-law fought in the Pacific as did my great-uncle, so I thought it was important. Marine! The Life of Chesty Puller (Burke Davis) tells the story of the Marine Corps legend. My father-in-law was a Marine and you say the words Chesty Puller and practically every Marine in the room stands to attention. I wanted to know why.
Do you detect a theme? 😉 I’ve read a few other non-fictions recently, like The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Rebecca Skloot) and Undaunted Courage (Stephen Ambrose). I have to admit, though, I only read them because of the book club I belonged to.
I might be a slug for falling back into reading what I like, when makes me smile, and what makes my heart feel mushy. I probably am a slug for “giving in,” and not trying to develop my mind more. But you know what? I don’t care. I read for relaxation and fun. No apologies, even though I sorta feel like I should…
What do you read that’s outside your comfort zone?
Read the next blog in the blog hop by going here.
Dee
Burning Bridges by Anne Krist: old letters put the lie to Sara’s life. Now, mending her past mistakes while crossing burning bridges will be the hardest thing she’s ever done.
No apologies necessary… read what gives you pleasure. I might add your books are fantastic!
If I grab non fiction it is as self help or cookbook maybe writing helps. I just can’t do these types. My daughter however loves them.
There’s nothing wrong with not stretching your limits. I think life has enough stress and bad news as it is. Non-fiction can be entertaining as well as informative. Of course, since I’ve written several non-fiction books and documentaries, I admit to being prejudiced.
It’s nice to read outside your comfort zone sometimes, but I agree there is no need to apologize if you don’t. I read for fun, too, and unless you really want to try something different, you shouldn’t feel like you need to change what entertains you. Life is too short to waste your free time on something you really don’t want to do.