Why Reading Fiction Builds Empathy and Focus, According to Leslie Venetz

In a recent LinkedIn post, Leslie Venetz explores the profound benefits of incorporating fiction into one’s reading habits, particularly advocating for setting a fiction reading goal. Venetz, who shared that she read nearly 60 books in 2025, emphasizes that reading is a fundamental part of her identity, serving as a primary method for learning, decompressing, and practicing presence with ideas.

The Dual Power of Fiction: Empathy and Focus

Leslie Venetz highlights two key reasons why individuals should consider setting a fiction reading goal. The first, and perhaps most impactful, is the cultivation of empathy. Venetz posits that engaging with fictional narratives, especially historical fiction, allows readers to step into the shoes of others and experience different truths. This process, according to Venetz, stretches perspectives and broadens one’s understanding of lived experiences.

“Reading fiction books builds empathy. Historical fiction especially makes you sit with what it might have felt like to live through someone else’s truth. It stretches your perspectives and expands the lived experience.”

The second major benefit Venetz points out is the training of the brain for deep focus. In an era dominated by constant digital stimuli and quick dopamine hits, Venetz argues that immersing oneself in a fictional world for extended periods can strengthen attention spans. This sustained engagement, she suggests, offers an opportunity to consciously rewire neural pathways away from superficial distractions and towards deeper, more sustained interest.

“When you spend hours inside a fictional world, your attention strengthens. It’s an opportunity to rewire your neural pathways away from quick dopamine hits and towards sustained interest.”

Venetz’s Top Fiction Picks of 2025

To illustrate her points and provide actionable recommendations, Leslie Venetz shared her “Top 10 of 2025” list, presented in no particular order, with brief notes to guide potential readers. The list spans various genres, from mind-bending thrillers to cozy fantasy and historical dramas.

Thriller and Sci-Fi Recommendations

For those who enjoy fast-paced, thought-provoking narratives, Venetz recommends “Dark Matter” by Blake Crouch, noting its similarity to a lucid dream. She also mentions “Recursion” by the same author but expressed a preference for “Dark Matter.”

Fantasy and Magical Realism

Venetz expresses a particular fondness for “A Discovery of Witches,” a magical romance that she found so compelling she’s hesitant to continue the series. She also discovered the joy of cozy fantasy with “The Spellshop & The Enchanted Greenhouse,” describing it as perfect for those craving low-stakes stories. For fans of intricate world-building and mystery, “The Tainted Cup” is recommended. Additionally, she praises Terry Pratchett’s “Going Postal” for its wit, satire, and unique commentary.

Historical and Emotionally Rich Narratives

A standout for Venetz was “The Frozen River,” which she describes as potentially her favorite read of the year, especially for those who appreciate historical fiction centered on strong female characters. She also urged readers not to delay in picking up “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” a book she initially resisted but found to be an emotionally layered and ultimately moving experience.

Thought-Provoking and Mature Themes

For readers seeking a more challenging and deeply philosophical experience, Venetz suggests “Tender is the Flesh.” She describes it as a disturbing yet profoundly thought-provoking read, offering a sharp critique of humanity, power, and consumption for those willing to confront uncomfortable truths.

Leslie Venetz concludes her post by inviting her network to share their own 2025 fiction recommendations for her 2026 reading list, further fostering a community around the practice of reading.