Writers need to read. Much of that reading will be in the specific genre they want to write in, so they can glean that particular style. But in the end, excellent writing is what we all aim for. We strive to be at the A-game level with all the literary elements. So, I think it’s important to break away from your comfort zone and read top-notch novels across the spectrum.
ALA Youth Media Awards (Photo credit: americanlibraries)
For example, reading a book that wins the Printz Award for excellence in young adult literature, or any of YALSA’s Best of the Best. Of course, there’s the Newbery Award for children’s literature and the Caldecott Medal for best illustrations in a picture book. There is also the Sibert Medal for best informational (non-fiction) children’s book and the Coretta Scott King Award for African-American authors and illustrators.
There are also all the big awards given in adult literature each year: The Man Booker Prize, National Book Award, Edgar Award, Hugo Awards, Stonewall Book Awards, and more. I would also suggest reading something from an ethnic group other than your own, such as: The Asian American Literary Awards, Literary Awards for Latino Authors, Arab American Book Award, or The National Jewish Book Award.
I believe writers need to keep their minds open. We need to keep learning and observing all the time in order to bring the best out in our own writing. So, even if you just read one title from a few of these categories once every few years, it might surprise and inspire you in your own work.
I do think it’s important to read across genres, and not just the one you write in. And I learn as much about writing reading books I hate as I do reading books I love.