Want to Understand others? Read Literary Fiction

This links to an interesting article in USA Today. Not only do I agree with this assessment, I want to add to it. Reading great literature (and good writers in general) also helps you think like the author. I tell my writing students all the time, that if you are immersing yourself in great writing you will be tempted to emulate great writers. Just like when I finish rereading Pride and Prejudice for the umpteenth time, I’m compelled to ask all my friends, “Are your parents in good health?”