Is It Normal to Love Goosebumps Books as a 17-year-old Female?

Many questions arise when we find ourselves drawn to genres or topics traditionally associated with younger audiences. This is especially common when it comes to books like the Goosebumps series. Is it weird for someone your age to love things like that? In this article, we explore why age should not limit your enjoyment of literature, and why personal preference and emotional connection are the true measures of whether something is right for you.

The Power of Personal Preference

Often, we allow societal norms and age-restrictions to dictate our reading choices. However, the Goosebumps series was written to thrill and entertain children and young adults, but the joy and excitement of reading them can be equally enjoyed across all age groups. Is it weird for someone my age to love things like that? Not at all! Enjoying books based on themes, characters, or plot twists rather than just age is a sign of a good reader. The true measure of whether a book is enjoyable lies in the reader’s personal connection to the story, regardless of who the target audience is.

The Innocence of Nostalgia

Nostalgia plays a significant role in the enjoyment of Goosebumps books. Many adults find these books nostalgic, reminding them of their childhood excitement and fear. Books like Goosebumps can serve as a portal to a simpler time, a gentle reminder of youthful experiences. Even if you are no longer a child, revisiting these stories can bring back cherished memories and emotions. That's perfectly normal and quite enjoyable!

Writing for a Wider Audience

One common misconception is that the author, R.L. Stine, is solely writing for a youth audience. In reality, he is a talented writer who appeals to a wide range of readers. He has the ability to make complex ideas and themes accessible and engaging for any age. His stories are age-appropriate without feeling overly simplistic or saccharine. The popularity of the Goosebumps series can partly be attributed to the garish covers, which might make some people feel embarrassed.

Reading Is a Personal Choice

Ultimately, the choice to enjoy a book should be yours and yours alone. If you find joy in Goosebumps books, there’s no reason to feel strange about it. Your Goosebumps obsession is perfectly normal, given the widespread affection for this series. I, myself, stopped reading Goosebumps books around 15 years old but still enjoy other books aimed at a younger audience, like the Famous Five series. My enjoyment of these books is evidence that one can be fully immersed in childhood stories without losing one's identity.

Which brings us to the broader point: reading is a personal choice that should be embraced and celebrated. If you enjoy reading such series, do not let societal norms dictate your preferences. Books like Goosebumps are a testament to the universal human experience of fear and excitement, regardless of age. In the end, the only thing that matters is whether the books bring you joy and excitement.

Conclusion: Life is too short to let others define your reading choices. Goosebumps books, whether enjoyed at 17 or 90, are a celebration of shared human experiences and emotions. Embrace your love for what brings you happiness, and remember that in this vast world of literature, there's always something for everyone.