Why Do We Feel Sad After Finishing a Great Book?

Ever felt a strange sadness after turning the last page of an amazing book? You're not alone. This feeling, often called a "book hangover, " is real and has a scientific explanation. When we dive into a great story, we connect with characters and worlds that feel real to us. Even though they're not real, our brains treat them as if they are. This is why we might feel a sense of loss when the story ends. Maja Djikic, a professor at the University of Toronto, explains that this sadness is like grieving a loss. We miss the characters and the world we've become attached to. Sometimes, the big ideas in the book stay with us, and we wish we had more time to think about them.So, how can we cope with this feeling? One way is to jump into a new book. It's like moving on to a new relationship after a breakup. Another way is to talk about the story with friends or in a book club. Sharing your thoughts can help you process your feelings. Writing about the book can also help. You can keep a journal or post your thoughts online. This can help you understand your feelings and remember the books you love. Remember, feeling sad after a great book is normal. It's a sign that the story really touched you. So, don't be too hard on yourself. Instead, embrace the feeling and use it to connect with others who love reading as much as you do.