Are you a writer who reads? Or do you avoid reading altogether? Have you considered why you chose to read or not to read? Did you know that readers make far better writers than non-readers? Either way, reading or not reading, you could improve your writing by reading more books and diversifying what you read. If you only read a certain genre, like historical romance, you’ll find it extremely difficult to write effectively in another genre like mystery or science fiction.

It’s been said many times that good writers need to read a lot. But what should they read? Well, just about anything and everything. Many writers choose to read only certain genres and they tend to prefer more recent publications. However, there is a lot one can learn from reading the classics. I know – I can hear the groaning – read the classics? That can be really dull and uninspiring. But, it can also be invigorating and awe-inspiring. Take, for example, Charles Dickens and Jane Austen. Their command of the English language is impeccable and they can set the scene, develop the characters and so much more all through their thorough descriptive narratives. Having difficulty choosing character names? Move your reading choices into the early twentieth century and consider the works of P.J. Wodehouse – humor at its best. I personally love the way he chooses nonsensical names to make fun of the upper class, all in the act of character development.

So, how can you improve your reading to improve your writing? Here are some tips to consider when choosing a classic author for your reading list. You won’t be disappointed.

Start by reading genres you’re interested in. Look for classic literature in these genres. For example, if you’re a sci-fi addict, consider reading H.G. Wells’ “The Time Machine.” Written in 1895, this is a classic example of dystopian post-apocalyptic science fiction literature.

Now that you’re reading, make it part of your daily routine: read, write, and learn.

Plan your next book while you continue reading in the genre you’ve chosen for your own writing exercise.

Once you’ve finished reading one classic, find a more contemporary book that parallels the theme and genre of the classic book you just finished.

Make a list of things you’ve learned from both books.

Venture out into a new genre and choose again a classic and a contemporary book to strengthen your reading and writing repertoire.

Make lists as you read and write: what did you learn from the books you read? Are the character names well chosen? Is descriptive narrative well constructed – too much or too little?

Study and analyze what you read and share your thoughts on books with others. Track your books on various book sites like Goodreads.

Make a list of notable quotes that inspire you both as a person and as a writer. One quote that particularly speaks to me is from Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre”: “I am a free human being, with an independent will.” And another one from dear Jane: “I will be myself.”

Now stretch your reading knowledge by reading something that you normally wouldn’t choose to read. Perhaps a biography when you’re not really into nonfiction works.

Make reading part of your daily habit. Choose your books wisely and learn from what you read. Not all books will be inspiring and influential, but at least these uninspiring books will teach you what and how you don’t want to write. The important thing is to read, from all eras and all styles and genres.