Most of my friends read novels for fun, but few of them really spend a lot of time reading non fiction books. Of course, I read a non fiction book whenever I get the chance, but I am definitely an exception to the rule. It seems like when people aren't in school, nonfiction books fall out of favor very quickly. Although I know quite a few people who will read new non fiction books for financial reasons (such as to learn a new career skill), few of them will read them just for the simple joy of learning new things. It is almost as if non fictional books are viewed as less interesting than novels. In my opinion, people should take a closer look. Book non fiction can be absolutely fascinating.
My favorite non fiction books at the moment are ones about language. When most people think about non fiction books, they think about the study of very concrete things. Perhaps they would pick up a non fiction book about how to program, Or one that surveys a certain period of history. Non fiction books, in fact, are much broader than this. I have recently been reading a non fiction book by George Lakoff called Metaphors We Live By. It is a book of linguistic theory, meant to discuss the way our metaphors shape our reality. Although this book is having a profound influence on me, it is definitely not one of those non fiction books meant to teach you how to communicate more effectively. It is simply there to educate the reader about some important findings of linguistics.
Although most adults see the value of getting their kids to enjoy literature from an early age, many of them do not realize the value of non fiction books. I got involved in non fiction reading through Usborne books when I was in first grade, so I value how important it is. There are many non fiction Usborne books that interest kids. Some kids like sports biographies, while other ones like to read about world history. Getting children's books that are meant to inspire not just the imagination, but also a passion for learning, is really crucial for the development of any child. Through Usborne books, your son or daughter can develop a love of reading that will last a lifetime. This is one of the greatest gifts that any parent can give to their children.