Why do we read and what happens when we do? Such Stuff as Dreams: The Psychology of Fiction explores how fiction works in the brains and imagination of both readers and writers. — Demonstrates how reading fiction can contribute to a greater understanding of, and the ability to change, ourselves—Informed by the latest psychological research which focuses on, for example, how identification with fictional characters occurs, and how literature can improve social abilities—Explores traditional aspects of fiction, including character, plot, setting, and theme, as well as a number of classic techniques, such as metaphor, metonymy, defamiliarization, and cues—Includes extensive end-notes, which ground the work in psychological studies—Features excerpts from fiction which are discussed throughout the text, including works by William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Kate Chopin, Anton Chekhov, James Baldwin, and others "Like the best fiction, this insightful book illuminates fundamental truths about our minds, relationship, emotions, creativity, and how these come together to form stories with lasting impact. It is an engaging, wide-ranging, and scientifically-grounded journey from fiction's roots in childhood through its continuing role in our lives. Professor Oatley is the perfect guide through the psychology of fiction: he combines the deep expertise of a scholar and the passion of a lifelong reader with a writer's touch. This book is a delightful and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in literature, how it works, and why it is so important to the human experience." - Melanie C. Green, Professor of Psychology, University of North Carolina