Fantasy Fiction Isn’t Real Reading?!

Fantasy Fiction Isn’t Real Reading?!

Apparently, there’s a lot of controversy around whether reading fantasy fiction counts as “real reading.” As the new year approaches, many readers have been sharing their reading goals and the books they finished in 2025. Some people even suggested that if your reading list consists mostly of fiction especially fantasy, then it doesn’t really count.

To me, that idea is so odd. Saying fantasy fiction doesn’t count as real reading or literature just doesn’t make sense. First of all, reading any genre is still reading. A book is a book. You’re still using comprehension, engagement, imagination, and critical thinking skills.

So, what exactly is fantasy fiction? Simply put, it’s a story set in an imaginary world, separate from our own reality. It often includes supernatural elements, magical systems, or mythical characters. While fantasy fiction often attracts children, there is absolutely no age limit on who can enjoy it.

Reading fantasy fiction is just as valuable as reading motivational or nonfiction books. The truth is, not all of us want to constantly read “How to Get Rich in Five Days” or endless live, laugh, love healing series. Now, don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with those books. But I think everyone needs a little bit of fantasy in their lives.

To say fantasy fiction doesn’t count as literature because of its content makes me wonder: what is considered literature, and who gets to decide that? In fantasy fiction, entire worlds and complex characters are built from imagination alone. Creativity is being actively used. I feel like we’ve lost some of that imagination in today’s world, there’s so much copy-and-paste and very little spark of originality. Creating a fully realized world from scratch takes an incredible amount of talent. And let’s be honest, fantasy authors do a great deal of research too, just like writers in any other genre.

Fantasy fiction is often labeled as childish or “just for kids,” but then why do so many adults still love it? That’s like asking an adult why they still watch anime or questioning Disney adults about their love for all things Disney. Even now, I still cherish my favorite fantasy books, Matilda, Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (which I wrote several book reports on in elementary school), and of course, the Harry Potter series.

Fantasy fiction is cool. The real world is hard. And sometimes, fantasy lovers just need an escape. So bring on the fairies, dragons, magic, and all the mythical things.

Fantasy fiction isn’t just for children. I believe it helps adults reconnect with their imagination. It inspires people to pick up a book,or even write their own fantasy stories. We definitely need more fantasy authors, especially in this modern age. While some newer fantasy trends are great and others may be a bit cringey, there’s still room for all of it.

What I’m really trying to say is this: just because a book isn’t poetry, nonfiction, or motivational, doesn’t mean it isn’t real reading. Fantasy fiction is real literature, and it absolutely counts. Reading is reading it’s not a competition.

So, in my opinion, if you read 100 fantasy books in 2026, just know that it counts.

Happy reading ✨📚