Understanding Your Reading Preferences: Why Enjoyment is Personal

Avoiding the often-cliché notion that not enjoying a book means you're an idiot, it's crucial to recognize that our reading preferences are highly personal and subjective.

Personal Reading Preferences Matter

It's entirely normal to find some series or books unengaging, even if they are widely praised by many readers. Reading is a deeply personal experience, and what resonates with one person may not have the same impact on another. This doesn't make you less intelligent; it simply means that the particular content or style of a book may not be tailored to your tastes.

Exploring Diverse Genres

There's no one-size-fits-all in literature. If you're not particularly drawn to fantasy reading, that's perfectly fine. Fantasy has many different subgenres and styles, too. For instance, if you prefer modern fantasy set in the real world or stories that are shorter, faster-paced, and less descriptive, a series like The Wheel of Time, written by Robert Jordan, may not be your cup of tea.

Robert Jordan's Writing Style and Impact

Robert Jordan was a prolific author known for his intricate and multi-faceted storytelling, a characteristic that many love but others find overwhelming. His works often focus on numerous characters and perspectives, delving into the rich and expansive world he created. Jordan's interest in world-building—with detailed histories, lore, and cultures—often overshadows the importance of plot, which can make the experience less enjoyable for some readers.

As an author, Jordan aimed for depth and complexity. This approach was both strength and weakness. While it provided a robust tapestry of characters and backgrounds, it also required significant mental effort to keep track of various plot threads and characters. Mid-series, readers often needed to maintain detailed notes and reference materials. The extensive notes detailing the myriad of Aes Sedai and their different perspectives sometimes detracted from the main narrative.

A significant example occurred with the tenth book in the series, where the main character's presence was minimal. The story seemed to bog down into side characters and threads, leading to frustration for many readers. This complexity, while lauded by some, could be seen as overkill for others. Editors and publishers acknowledged this issue and recommended extensive trimming and editing of several novels in the series to improve pacing and focus.

Historical Context and Influence

Before 1990, the fantasy genre was much less diverse and expansive than it is today. Robert Jordan was one of the few notable fantasy authors, so readers naturally gravitated towards his work. This context explains why his books remain popular and influential to this day. His writing influenced many emerging authors, shaping the genre and introducing new ideas and structures that are now staples in contemporary fantasy literature.

It’s crucial to recognize that what works for one reader may not work for another. Understanding and respecting your own reading preferences is key to enjoying the vast world of literature.