Book Genres
There are many different types of books and literature. Categories can overlap and may be more than one genre at the same time. Perhaps there is a graphic novel with a science fiction story or a thriller with a romance subplot. Take a look at many of the various types of fiction and non-fiction below.
Fiction
Fiction is a category that means there is a narrative story and the content of the story is made up. Fictional stories are popular for all age groups! Find out about some of the different types of fiction beyond just YA (young adult).
Fantasy
This genre typically features supernatural themes or magical phenomena. Harry Potter and Twilight are examples.
Historical fiction
This cateogory combines real historical events with made up stories. The actual people or experiences did not occur, but the circumstances of the time period they are in did.
Science Fiction
This genre displays fantastical elements based on futuristic or science related experiences. Everything from Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" to "The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy" falls in this category
Manga-Comic book-Graphic novels
This genre ranges from comic books to full graphic novels. Illustrations are important and convey much of the tone and feel of the story. Manga is Japanese illustrated fiction that has gained international appeal.
Mystery/Thriller
These stories are suspense related stories that have interesting plots or a riddle the reader wants to solve.
Realistic Fiction
This category describes a great many books that have a true feel to them. They may describe struggles which people can identify with and reflect real world issues. Subtopics may be mystery, romance, coming of age, thriller, or comedic.
Mythology/Legends
This category of "folklore" includes fables and fairytales as well. This genre deals with old stories often told verbally that describe origin stories, populations, and often explore morals and values through allegory.
Short stories
Short stories often come in collections. They can be a collection by author or a variety of authors. Stories may be humorous, dark, or mysterious and come in many different flavors. Some American classic short story authors are Mark Twain and Edgar Allen Poe,
Magic Realism
Magic realism combines the relatable aspects of realistic fiction with the strangeness of fantasy. Everyday normal life characters or plots are infused with unusual elements.
More about fiction:
​
​
High school fiction reading list by grade
Middle school fiction reading list by grade
​
​
Non-Fiction
Welcome to the world of non-fiction, where every book opens a door to real-life stories, fascinating facts, and practical knowledge! Non-fiction books cover a vast array of subjects that can satisfy your curiosity, fuel your passions, and expand your understanding of the world around you. Unlike fictional stories, non-fiction texts are based on real events, people, and factual information, making them an invaluable resource for learning and personal growth.
​
Discover What Interests You
​
Non-fiction isn't limited to the categories we highlight here; it encompasses virtually any topic you can imagine. Whether you're into computer science, mental health, sports, history, or even cooking, there's a non-fiction book out there for you. Think about what excites you or what you’d like to learn more about, and dive into a non-fiction book on that topic. You’ll be amazed at how much you can discover and how your perspective can broaden with each page you read.
Biography-Autobiography
These books tell the story of real people. If the author is also the subject it is an "autobiography". If the author researched the figure they are writing about it is a "biography".
Self-help
These books are meant to help the reader address certain problems. It may be anything from financial help to relationship guidance. If you are looking to improve your life in some particular way these books may offer relevant information.
Essays
An essay is a piece of writing that gives the author's own perspective on subjects aimed at informing, persuading, or reflecting on ideas, There are similarities to a letter, paper, article, pamphlet, or a short story.
Philosophy
Philosophy means "love of learning" and includes big topics like "What is the meaning of life?". If you are curious about deep questions this is the category for you.
History
Books on history can be quite
fascinating. Interested in ancient Rome? How about learning more about the Egyptian pyramids? History holds so many events to learn from.
Science
Books on science may cover anything from plant biology to the physics of black holes in outer space. Remember science is a method for discovery and not a single subject. Medicine and technology are branches of applied science.
Sports
These books may provide explanations of how various sports are played, sports in history, the sports industry, or information on figures in sports.
Music
Books on music may include learning how to read sheet music, how to play musical instruments, the psychology of how music effects us, the history of music in different cultures, or information on musical figures.
Religion-Spirituality
There are many different types of books that explore spirituality and religion. Everything from sacred texts like the Bible or the Bhagavad Gita to cultural examinations of the modern day quest for spiritual purpose can be found in this genre.
Health and fitness
You can find books on everything from nutrition to weight lifting to running. "How-to" books are popular in this category but you can also find information on scientific research and self help.
Arts
This category includes any artistic medium including; painting, sculpting, illustration, graphic design, etc. The information may be on techniques, specific artists or interpretation of the meaning of artwork.
Poetry
Stores and libraries usually classify poetry as nonfiction although the subject or plot of many poems is made up. The creative use of language and experimental aspects of this category make it hard to define.
Teen
Many libraries and schools include a category called "YA" which stands for young adult. These books are geared to older students who are in their teen years and soon to enter adulthood. Many of these stories deal with themes of finding your identity, social struggles, or standing up to corrupt authorities. Some YA tends towards dystopian themes as well. Dystopian means a future that deals with dark and disturbing aspects of society and usually points out injustices. You may find YA books speak to specific struggles at this time in your life.
New Releases
Double click the book images below to find some of the hottest new release titles.
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |
Audiobooks
Click the book images to reach you tube links to full audio recordings of the book.
Additional sources and sites:
