People want to read fiction and escape from reality. They are not interested in the truth, but rather in whatever validates their emotions and poor decisions.

If we truly want to write things that people will read, we need to present an unreal scenario in which readers can feel comfortable with their fears and insecurities. If a story stirs every possible emotion in the reader, we are probably looking at the next bestseller.

People want to read fairy tales: good versus evil, the hero saving the day, or the country girl who is rescued from the dragon by Prince Charming and becomes a princess. All of those stories have endured and remained popular for centuries.

Very few people want to read about science, technology, or global warming. The truth is simply too boring.