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Wrt the escapism thing... I do read to escape in a sense. My days are usually full of problem-solving and intensity. Even at home it's all about getting stuff done. I enjoy reading a book to relax my mind and escape the responsibility and challenges of the day. As a result, I look for something light on a fun and comfortable topic, with characters that I enjoy "hanging out with" rather than perfect plots. It's kind of like the reading version of watching TV.
For me, that often means something like Vince Flynn/Christopher Reich/Brad Thor. I love the "popular" type fictional spy books and spy shows on TV. Or, dare I admit it, for a silly break I enjoy the Stephanie Plum series. That one is definitely a guilty pleasure, but the character and dialog is so easy and fun which makes it addictive. I just wish they'd clean it up just a bit. It's not too bad, but enough to make you a little uncomfortable.
Other times, I like to learn and experience, so biographies and history are fun for me. On those days, reading Harvard Classics or about colonial America seems light.
And if I'm in the mood to "tackle" something for fun, I'll read a mystery or a technical or business book. For me, it's all about the mood.
Btw, this is also why I tend to be in the middle of several books at any one time - so whatever my mood and energy level, I'm in the midst of a book that is perfect for the moment!
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