Why do you think an author does not tell you everything? What would a book be...

[puppynap2001]

...like. . . . . look down details that never asked you to make inferences?

[inkdropp]

That's sort of the point to good writing. A good author will provide the information required to present his story. It sounds sort of mathematical like that, but that's what it is. When a book makes you assume something imperative to the conclusion of the story, then obviously he (or you) missed something.

[D S]

I know that one author is not specific about everything because she wanted to give the reader some imaginative space. When all the details aren't there, you can picture it in your mind the way you'd like it to be or think it is. Having your own interpretations guide the details makes it more personal and enjoyable to read.

[Hey look at the Sun]

Well, if a writer gives you all the details in a book, that would be just plain stupid. In reading,we also have to use our minds. Giving all the details is like spoon-feeding everything. What's the fun in that? It's a surfeit of information. And it would be ridiculous..especially in a mystery. You have to guess..A lot of books are bestsellers because of the suspense.

[i8pikachu]

A book that never asked you to figure out the subtext would be a story that tells and doesn't show, which completely destroys the golden rule of writing: show, don't tell. Books that tell instead of show are horrible to read.

To find the subtext is human and a fine author sculpts the subtext to provide a form that the reader discovers on his own, with the author's guidance.

[Brian H]

This question sounds kind -off creepy...

[heatheroo]

it would be plain, and leave nothing to the imagination.

understatement should never be underestimated.

[koolpersonwholives]

i think they dont tell your all the information because they like to leave some space for your imagination to kick. I think if an author told you everything about the book and the characters than books would be a lot longer and more boring.

[heart throb-nin]

For what purpose did the author write the book if he's gonna tell you everything?