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List of Book Genres: 30 Fiction And Nonfiction Genres You Should Know

What’s so important about knowing the genres of books ?

Well, if you’re an author with a work in progress, you’ll want to know its genre to ensure your ideal readers find and read it.

List a science fiction novel as a paranormal romance, for example, and you’ll likely end up with a flurry of negative reviews. No one wants that.

Readers of specific book genres have expectations you’ll want to meet if you want them to enjoy your book and recommend it to others.

You also want readers to see your book’s cover and know it’s the genre they want.

So, knowing your book’s genre not only helps with marketing. It can make all the difference in your writing career.

What does your book genre tell you?

30 book genres explained, fiction genres, nonfiction genres, most popular book genres.

Once you know your book’s genre, you can write it knowing the following expectations your book should meet:

For example, if you’re writing YA fantasy, you’ll run afoul of your readers (and their parents) if your story includes a sex scene or graphic violence.

If you’re writing a cozy mystery, you don’t want your book’s cover to look like it belongs on a horror novel.

And if you’re writing fantasy , you’ll want to find a designer who specializes in that genre and knows how to create covers worthy of a Rick Riordan novel.

Unless you’re an experienced cover designer (like Derek Murphy of CreativIndie ), DIY covers using stock photos will put your fantasy novel at a serious disadvantage.

With that in mind, enjoy this list of 30 types of book genres with descriptions and an example (or two) for each. It’s not an exhaustive list; there are upwards of 40 genres — more if you count sub-genres and mixed genres.

But it’s enough to help you identify your book’s genre.

Whether you write fiction or nonfiction , you’ll be prepared to meet genre expectations and market your book appropriately to reach your target audience and maximize sales.

Your readers will also appreciate your taking the time to learn what this post will teach you. And so will your book’s editor and cover designer.

List of Book Genres

Fantasy — The fantasy genre involves world-building and characters who are supernatural, mythological, magical, or a combination of these. Examples: Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin and Circe by Madeline Miller
Science Fiction — Similar to fantasy, this genre explores futuristic or technological themes and ideas to address scientific “what if” questions. Examples: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams and The Atlantis Gene by A.G. Riddle
Dystopian — Sometimes considered a subgenre of fantasy or of science fiction, this genre is usually set in a bleak future (near or distant) to explore cultural or social issues. Examples include Wool by Hugh Howey and The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Adventure — Any novel that focuses on an adventure undertaken by the main character (with or without help) falls under the adventure genre. This genre can easily be combined with others. Example: White Fang by Jack London
Romance — Any novel where the main storyline centers on a romantic relationship falls into this category, which has several subgenres. Examples include The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms
Detective & Mystery — One of the toughest genres to write, this one centers on a mystery and involves either a professional or amateur sleuth. Examples: Murder on the the Orient Express by Agatha Christie.
Horror — The goal of this genre is to scare your readers and keep them that way until the hero vanquishes the threat. Example: The Shining by Stephen King
Thriller — This genre also has scary elements, but its main objective is to keep your reader in a state of suspense until the story’s resolution. Example: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
LGBTQ+ — Fiction with authentic LGBTQ+ representation falls into this category, which is sometimes considered a subgenre of contemporary fiction but can also be mixed with romance, fantasy, and other genres. Example: Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Historical Fiction — This genre covers fiction set in a specific time period and providing historically accurate detail relevant to the period and its characters. Examples: The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Young Adult (YA) (13-17 yrs) — This is fiction for readers aged 13 to 17 years. Example: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi.
Children’s Fiction — Fiction in this genre is written for kids aged up to 13 and is further divided into smaller subgenres. Example: Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty.
Memoir & Autobiography — Each of the books in this genre is a true account of the author’s own life. Memoirs are typically related to a specific time in the author’s life or to a specific theme of the author’s choosing. Example: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Biography — Biographies are books written on someone other than the author — generally someone well known or someone whose life and or death can teach the world something worth learning. Example: Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow
Cooking — In this genre, you’ll find books on every kind of cooking someone in the world took the time to write about, as well as cooking for different diets and nutritional needs. Example: Indian Instant Pot Cookbook by Urvashi Pitre
Art & Photography — This genre includes books on artists of all kinds, as well as on each type of art and its history. Example: How to Create Stunning Digital Photography by Tony Northrup
Self-Help / Personal Development — This genre is all about helping your reader realize their potential, develop their gifts, and live fulfilling lives. Example: Declutter Your Mind: How to Stop Worrying, Relieve Anxiety, and Eliminate Negative Thinking by S.J. Scott and Barrie Davenport
Motivational / Inspirational — This genre’s main purpose is to get you to do something, to inspire you, or to challenge your perspective. Example: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Health & Fitness — Here you’ll find books on both mental and physical health concerns as well as diets and weight loss. Example: Lies My Doctor Told Me by Ken D. Berry
History — This genre focuses on a specific time period or covers a broad span of time, often describing specific historical characters. Example: Sapiens: A Brief History of Mankind by Yuval Harari
Crafts, Hobbies & Home — Look to this genre for topics related to creating a home and developing specific hobbies or crafts. Examples: The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life by Joshua Becker
Families & Relationships — If it deals with family life, marriage, or any kind of interpersonal relationship, your book belongs in this genre. Example: The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman
Humor & Entertainment — Books in this genre are supposed to make you laugh or at least keep you entertained. Many also belong to the memoir genre. Example: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
Business & Money — If you’re writing a nonfiction book on business topics, wealth building, or managing your money, it probably belongs to this genre. Example: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
Law & Criminology — Books on the legal system, on laws, criminal justice, and related topics belong in this genre. Example: The New Jim Crow: Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander
Politics & Social Sciences — Books in this genre discuss politics or issues related to one or more of the social sciences (psychology, sociology, social work, etc.). Example: 21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari
Religion & Spirituality — From personal guides to spiritual memoirs to histories, this genre covers religions of all kinds along with spiritual practices. Example: Runes for Beginners by Lisa Chamberlain
Education & Teaching — Any book that proposes to teach the reader how to do something — or how to do it better — belongs to this genre. Example: Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution by Zak George and Dina Roth Port
Travel — This genre includes travel guides and travel-heavy memoirs. Example: The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World by Lonely Planet
True Crime — These often read like well-crafted crime fiction but are true stories that chronicle real crimes, typically with exacting detail. Examples: If You Tell: A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood by Gregg Olsen

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to identify your book’s genre (or genres), how will that influence your decisions regarding cover design, editing, and marketing tactics?

Where will you find more of the kind of readers who will love your book, so you can send them word when it launches?

Maybe you’ve already found some Facebook groups for your genre. Or maybe your reader following on Twitter is steadily growing, thanks to your use of targeted hashtags.

What could you do today to begin marketing your book, so you can whet the appetites of your genre’s biggest fans among your social media connections and email subscribers?

We keep abreast of indie publishing trends and tactics to help writers like you make a good living with their books.

Because it can be done. And if that’s your goal, I’ll do everything I can to help you get there.

The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 35 Popular Genres, Explained

Authors need to have a firm grasp on all the different genres of books in order to find the perfect home for their own. The tropes and expectations of a book’s genre will inform its content and style during the writing process, as well as fundamentals such as word count. But it’s also central to the marketing of a book, determining its target audience and those all-important Amazon categories .

Get your genre wrong and you could be waving goodbye to book sales — and saying hello to unsatisfied reader reviews!

How many book genres are there?

Though we’re only covering 35 of the most popular in this post, there are around 50 genres in total — the exact number depends on who you ask. If you take subgenres into account, over on Reedsy Discovery we have 107 different categories , while Amazon has over 16,000!

That can be a lot to take in. So if you'd like some personalized guidance, we recommend taking this 1-minute quiz that will point you towards your genre (and subgenre).

Which genre (or subgenre) am I writing?

Find out which genre your book belongs to. It only takes a minute!

For an overview of all of the genres, that's what the rest of this post is for. There’s bound to be a genre that’s the perfect fit for your book — all you have to do is find it!

Fiction genres

“Writing fiction is the act of weaving a series of lies to arrive at a greater truth.” — Khaled Hosseini

This book genre is characterized by elements of magic or the supernatural and is often inspired by mythology or folklore. In high fantasy — one that’s set in an entirely fictional world — these magical elements are at the forefront of the plot, as in Trudi Canavan’s Black Magician trilogy. In low fantasy or magical realism, however, magic is subtly woven into an otherwise familiar, real-world setting. You can delve into fantasy’s many subgenres to get to know your Arcanepunk from your Flintlock, and find your book’s home !

Pro tip for writing fantasy: To make your world feels real and functional , make sure it’s grounded in rules — an internal rationale, so to speak, encompassing everything from the workings of your society to your magic system.

Science Fiction

A popular genre of science fiction, dystopian novels offer a bleak and frightening vision of the future . Authors writing dystopias imagine a grim society, often in the aftermath of a disaster, facing things like oppressive governments, Black Mirror -esque technology, and environmental ruin. From widely popular series like The Hunger Games to critically-acclaimed classics like 1984 , the enduring appeal of dystopian fiction lies in our burning desire to know where mankind is headed — and our perverse enjoyment of dark stories, so long as they aren’t actually happening to us.

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Action & Adventure

If you’re writing adventure, then chances are your book follows the structure of the Hero’s Journey, also known as the monomyth . Your protagonist has a very important goal to achieve, but they’re really going to have to go through the wringer first ! You throw up obstacle after obstacle, putting your hero in downright dangerous situations but eventually, they triumph and return home transformed. The action and adventure genre also complements a huge range of others, which means it has its fingers in everything from fantasy novels like The Hobbit to classic romance like J ane Eyre .

Also called detective fiction, this book genre is characterized by a gripping plot that revolves around a mystery — but hopefully, you’ve cracked that clue! The setting, characters, and tone of your book will determine precisely which category it falls under: cozy mystery, hardboiled, or something in between. But at the core of any mystery is a crime that must be solved by the protagonist. To get a sense of the clever trail of clues that’s so vital to this genre, check out Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie — the grande dame of mystery fiction.

Pro tip for writing a mystery: When planning your novel , consult the Fichtean curve , a narrative structure that emphasizes mini-crises, ratcheting up the tension to keep readers anxious to reach the climax.

What unites the books in this genre is not theme, plot, or setting, but the feeling they inspire in the reader: your pulse quickens, and your skin prickles as you turn the page with bated breath. Of course, this feeling of dread only comes about if the author creates the right atmosphere — an essential feature dependent on the subgenre. Gothic horror, for example, sends a shiver down your spine with spooky settings and paranormal elements, while gross-out horror shocks the reader with hacked-up flesh and buckets of blood. The master of horror fiction in all its guises? Stephen King, of course.

Pro tip for writing horror: Make the stakes plain and straightforward — survival, the death of a loved one, etc. — and clearly establish them for the reader, so they are in no doubt about the character’s motivation.

Thriller & Suspense

A horror story can also be called a thriller, if it employs psychological fear to build suspense. But not all thrillers are horror stories. So what are they? While this book genre encompasses many of the same elements as mystery, in a thriller the protagonist is usually acting to save their own life, rather than to solve the crime. Thrillers typically include cliffhangers, deception, high emotional stakes, and plenty of action — keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the book’s climax. Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl is a masterclass in the dark, mysterious thriller.

Pro tip for writing a thriller: Avoid anything that bogs down the pacing . If you notice that a scene is getting tied up in everyday details, or doesn’t add enough excitement to the plot, rewrite it or cut it altogether!

Historical Fiction

This book genre encompasses fictional stories in a historical setting, carefully balancing creativity and facts . In most cases, the characters and events are imagined by the author and enriched with historically accurate details from a specific time period. Take The Help by Kathryn Stockett, for example — a fictional story set in Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement. But occasionally, as is the case with Hilary Mantel’s Cromwell trilogy, the author builds the main story around real historical figures and events.

Like almost all of these genres, it's crucial that historical fiction works in exposition and historical detail subtly. Want to learn more about how to do this? Check out our free course on the golden writing rule, Show, Don't Tell.

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Romance is so frequently used as a subplot that it can sometimes be tricky to know whether or not you’re writing in this genre . The key thing to remember is that the romantic relationship must be the center point of the plot. (Other giveaways include a “happily ever after” ending and the warm fuzzies.) If your novel has a romantic relationship at its heart and is perfectly at home in another genre, it probably falls into one of romance’s many subgenres , including but not limited to: young adult romance, paranormal romance, and historical romance.

Women’s Fiction

Women’s fiction is an umbrella term for books written to target a female audience, generally reflecting on the shared experience of being a woman or the growth of a female protagonist. Because of this rather broad definition, authors will quite often write a romance novel or mystery, for example, that could also be labeled women’s fiction. Despite the connotations of one alternative name for this genre (“chick-lit”), many critically acclaimed bestsellers, including Jaqueline Woodson’s Red at The Bone, fall under its purview.

Contemporary Fiction

Literary Fiction

Like contemporary fiction, books considered literary fiction can’t be neatly filed under any other genre. What distinguishes this genre from contemporary fiction is that works of literary fiction are thought to have considerable artistic value. If your prose is meant to engage the reader in thought, if your narrative is character-driven and introspective, and if you provide personal or social commentary on a “serious” theme, then chances are you’re writing lit-fic. Modern classics by the likes of Virginia Woolf or Ali Smith would be labeled literary fiction.

Like we mentioned, lit-fic is heavy on character, and lighter on plot. If you're interested in writing a character-driven story, try out our profile template for developing well-rounded, fully realized ones.

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Magical Realism

You may remember us mentioning magical realism under the umbrella of fantasy — but considering its highbrow style and literary prestige, magical realism is often considered a genre in its own right . Its hallmarks include a real-world setting, a cast of run-of-the-mill characters (no vampires, fairies, or sorcerers), a fluid and non-linear timeline, and supernatural happenings — a baby born with feathered wings, or an egg hatching a ruby — left unexplained. Authors like Toni Morrison have used this literary style to grapple with serious social ills, from colonialism to fascism and slavery.

Graphic Novel

Short Story

Though they can belong to any of the other book genres on this list, short stories are frequently grouped together in their own genre because they’re, well, so much shorter than novels. Often the author will compile a collection linked together by a narrative thread or, more commonly, a shared theme. The stories in A Manual for Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin, for example, follow a series of women in different occupations — from cleaning women to ER nurses — all struggling to survive.

Young Adult

Young adult fiction, or YA, targets readers aged 12-18 and reflects its readership by following teenage characters as they grapple with the unique challenges of adolescence. Most works of YA fiction can be labeled “coming-of-age novels” in which the characters exit childhood and enter adulthood — a transition that results in a loss of innocence and a shifting sense of identity. Some of the biggest bestsellers in recent years have belonged to this genre, including The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and any YA novels by John Green.

Pro tip for writing young adult fiction: Though your teen character’s voice should be true to her life experience, you should never “dumb down” the language, story, or style choices in a YA novel.

The shiny new penny on this book genres list, new adult is like young adult aged-up: coming-of-age stories after the messiness of adolescence. Its college-age protagonists are walked through the gauntlet of becoming fully-fledged grownups, ditching the stress of the SATs and senior prom for college exams, career transitions, and more mature first times. Big names in New Adult, like Cora Carmack, tend to write steamy romances set in dorm rooms. But this genre isn’t all about collegiate love stories — your gritty urban fantasy or immersive historical fiction could find its home here, too.

Books in this genre are written with readers under the age of twelve in mind. Of course, kids will do a lot of growing between the ages of zero and twelve, which is why children’s books range from baby board books all the way up to middle grade ‘epics’ of 50,000 words. Hopefully, if you’re writing children’s literature, you already know you are . But it’s crucial that you also know which age group you’re trying to target, as this will impact the themes, characters, and complexity of your book.

Nonfiction genres

This is a broad category encompassing a number of nonfiction subgenres . From memoirs and biographies to books to self-help and true crime books, there's a type of nonfiction for every kind of reader.

Memoir & Autobiography

Both memoirs and autobiographies provide a true account of the author’s life. They differ in that an autobiography provides a chronological account of your life’s events and accomplishments, whereas a memoir puts the emphasis on only the most defining, emotional moments. Generally, these moments are drawn together by a single theme — or a significant time, place, or relationship — to communicate a message you wish to share with readers. I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou is a popular example of a memoir.

Pro tip for writing a memoir: Treat yourself as an interview subject and ask yourself questions that will trigger those life-defining stories — the ups and downs, the events that shaped you , what you sacrificed, what you learned.

Like autobiographies, biographies provide readers with a person’s life story; but they’re written in the third person by someone other than the subject. Generally, the subject of a biography is (or was) well-known — somebody whose life can teach readers an interesting lesson worth learning. Biographies, memoirs, and autobiographies differ from the rest of the nonfiction on this list, in that they weave a narrative in almost the same way a novel does. A great biography, like Ron Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton , isn’t a laundry list of events, but a life-giving tribute .

Food & Drink

Food and drink is one of nonfiction’s hottest book genres , making it a crowded and highly competitive market. As a result, today’s cookbooks tend to cater to specific cuisines, dietary, and/or lifestyle needs. If you’re writing a cookbook, you might consider pairing recipes with nutritional information, short autobiographical narratives, or even workouts. Jo Wicks’s 30 Day Kickstart Plan and Less Fuss No Waste Kitchen by Lindsay Miles are excellent examples of modern cookbooks.

Art & Photography

Some of the bestselling books in nonfiction, self-help books encourage personal improvement and confidence . Whether the focus is on relationships, emotional well-being, or finances, if you’re writing a book that aims to uplift and empower the reader , then you’re probably writing self-help.

The books in this genre lay down the known facts about a historical era, event, or figure. And since this is nonfiction, all the facts have to be accurate (though that doesn’t mean there’s no room for inference or opinion). The goal of these books is to educate and inform the reader, so this genre does include all those textbooks you used in school. But many history books ditch the play-by-play format to chronicle the past in a way more akin to storytelling. One of our favorite history books is Sapiens: A Brief History of Mankind by Yuval Noah Harari.

Travel memoirs and travelogues, like Jonathan Glancey’s The Journey Matters , take us all over the world, giving even the most devoted homebodies a tantalizing taste of adventure, wildlife, and the great outdoors. These pocket-sized books — featuring destination reviews, lists of where to eat and what to see, and tips for traveling on a budget — are without a doubt some of the most useful titles on the shelves.

Laugh-out-loud memoirs by the funniest celebs, satirical essays from the likes of David Sedaris, or gag gifts like How to Adult — all the books in this rib-tickling genre are written with one thing in mind: making readers laugh! So if you’ve compiled a collection of all your favorite dad jokes or penned a cathartic brain-dump of your most cringe-worthy memories, then your book may also belong in the humor genre.

An essay may sound like a boring assignment from your school years, but the books in this genre are among some of the most moving and inspirational works of literature there are. Many powerful voices — like James Baldwin and Roxane Gay — have used these short works to reflect on their own personal experiences and views, combining them into a collection that serves as an eye-opening social commentary on a particular theme or subject.

Guide/How-to

Religion & Spirituality

From histories of the Catholic Church to spiritual guidebooks and memoirs of the Eat, Pray, Love variety, this genre has a place for anything and everything related to the topics of religion and spirituality.

Humanities & Social Sciences

Got something wise to say? Then your book might just belong among the books of this eclectic genre — as long as it discusses a topic related to (deep breath): philosophy, history, literature, language, art, religion, music, or the human condition. This might seem like a pretty wide net to fall into, but keep in mind that books in this genre are typically quite academic; if you’ve written more of a free-flowing spiritual guide, it probably belongs in the previous genre.

Parenting & Families

Parents and families struggling with discipline, education, bonding, the care of a newborn baby, or a child with special needs, can turn to this well-stocked genre of books when they need to bring in the reinforcements. If you’ve written a memoir that’ll have families whole-heartedly nodding in agreement, or a guide brimming with advice for frazzled parents, then you can find a place for your book in the parenting and families section.

Science & Technology

The job of science nonfiction is not to predict the future, but to make sense of the world we’re currently living in — which, quite honestly, can feel like science fiction to some of us! Readers of this genre range from complete beginners trying to understand the things around them to technophiles whose brains are whirring to keep up with the pace of change, so there’s bound to be a niche for your book, however advanced it is.

As much as kids love fairytales and talking animals, they’re often just as happy to pick up a nonfiction book at storytime. Whether it’s an activity book to keep them busy, a powerful true story like Malala’s Magic Pencil , or a children’s encyclopedia to feed their brains, children’s nonfiction is all about making learning fun. And the wildly popular Horrible Histories series has proven that this genre can compete with wizards and superheroes at every age!

There you have it: 35 of the most popular genres of books. Hopefully, this list will help you get your foot in the right door. But if your book doesn’t slot neatly into any of these categories, don’t be afraid to declare it a hybrid, or to dig a little deeper into the subcategories that you’ll find in the shade of these umbrella genres.

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The Master List of Book Genres: 95 Fiction & Nonfiction Genres

Not sure what genre your current book is? We’re here to help! We’ve compiled the ultimate list of book genres to put your confusion to bed once and for all.

When you go through all the work of self-publishing your book, the last thing you want to do is mislabel it. That’s where our master list of book genres comes in. This list of book genres will help you to definitively place your book, so it can be found and shared by your target readers.

Sometimes, your book will encompass more than one genre. In fact, it could be a mix of four or five genres! Our list of book genres will help you determine precisely how to label your book – and ensure it receives the love it deserves. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the only book genres list you’ll ever need.

This List of Book Genres Contains:

The ultimate list of book genres (both fiction and nonfiction).

Here is the definitive list of book genres that are used today. The first 79 items in our list of book genres are types of fiction , followed by all the nonfiction genres. They are listed in alphabetical order for ease of navigation.

1. Action/Adventure fiction

The first genre in our list of book genres is action & adventure fiction. Action & adventure books contain a risk-filled journey and a thrilling series of action sequences. The threat of danger is ever-present, and the plot moves quickly.

Examples : The Ryanverse series by Tom Clancy and Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton.

2. Children’s fiction

Children’s fiction includes made-up stories that are written specifically for children. They cover themes and language that are age-appropriate and can contain many different book genres and subgenres within the pages.

Examples : Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl and Winnie-The-Pooh by A.A. Milne.

3. Classic fiction

Classics are fictional books that have stood the test of time and are considered exceptional works of literature. Classic fiction is often used in academic discussions.

Examples : Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Little Women by Louisa May Alcott.

4. Contemporary fiction

Contemporary fiction stories are set in modern times and don’t contain any elements of fantasy (see below). These stories give the reader a window into a specific human experience. Some may be written for entertainment, and others may be written as political or social statements.

Examples : A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman and Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.

5. Fantasy

Fantasy is undoubtedly one of the most popular genres in our list of book genres. Books in the fantasy genre include supernatural or magical elements. These can be set on Earth, or in completely made-up worlds. A fantasy book series is not bound by the laws of science, physics, or even reality.

There are many subgenres of fantasy, including:

6. Dark fantasy

Dark fantasy books are written in a tone that evokes a feeling of dread. They feature morally gray characters and often include elements of horror. Sometimes the story is told from a villain or monster’s point of view. In dark fantasy, the events that might shock in an actual horror book are portrayed as normal.

Examples : The Dark Tower series by Stephen King and American Gods by Neil Gaiman.

7. Fairy tales

No list of book genres would be complete without fairy tales. The stories of Hans Christian Anderson and the Grimm Brothers are what we most associate with “classic” fairy tales. They rely on themes of good vs. evil, contain a moral lesson (often for children), and usually end with a “happily ever after.”

Examples : Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine and The Lunar Chronicles series by Marissa Meyer.

8. Folktales

A folktale is a story or legend that originated in a particular region or group of people and was passed down through generations. Most folktales are hundreds of years old, but modern fantasy writers often take inspiration from these tales.

Examples : Momotaro and Arabian Nights .

9. Heroic fantasy

Heroic fantasy centers around a “hero” on a quest, and relies heavily on themes of good vs. evil.

Examples : The Kingkiller Chronicle series by Patrick Rothfuss and The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien.

10. High fantasy

There is often confusion between high fantasy vs. low fantasy. The easiest way to distinguish the two is that high fantasy is set in an alternate or secondary world. There is often a quest involved, as well as high stakes like preventing the end of the world or conquering an evil overlord.

High fantasy books tend to have lots of characters and a high page count – and are therefore sometimes called “epic fantasy” books.

Examples : A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin and the Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien.

11. Historical fantasy

Historical fantasy stories are set in during an easily recognizable historical period – but with magic added in.

Examples : Babel by R.F. Kuang and Gods of Jade and Shadow by Silvia Moreno-Garcia.

12. Low fantasy

Low fantasy is a fantasy story that is set on Earth, where magic interacts with humans. It often has a more intimate and personal story arc than high fantasy stories.

Examples : The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks and the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling.

13. Magical realism

Some consider magical realism to be its own genre, and others a subgenre of fantasy. This genre doesn’t contain magical creatures, but instead focuses on magical things that happen in our world. There is a general underpinning of magic that is often portrayed as commonplace.

Examples : One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez and Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel.

14. Mythic fantasy

Mythic fantasy centers around mythology, most often Greek or Roman mythology. The story may focus on the gods themselves, on their descendants, or on humans who interact with the gods.

Examples : Circe by Madeline Miller and Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan.

15. Urban fantasy

Urban fantasy is a fantasy book set in a city. These stories are usually set in the real world (low fantasy) and are about the relations between humans and supernatural beings.

Examples : The Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews and The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare.

16. Graphic novel

Graphic novels are works that are highly illustrated, with a series of comic panels and speech bubbles to tell the story. Graphic novels aren’t limited in terms of scope and can be used to cover many different book genres in our list of genres.

You will find lots of fantasy and sci-fi graphic novels, but also nonfiction, historical fiction, and classics!

Examples : Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi and Watchmen by Alan Moore.

17. Historical fiction

Next on our list of book genres is historical fiction. These are fiction books that are inspired by real events in history but are not factual retellings. They allow readers to be transported into the past through the eyes of one or more characters.

Examples : The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and Pachinko by Min Jin Lee.

Every list of book genres needs a little horror in the mix! Horror is an increasingly popular book genre, with many subgenres nested under it. Horror stories are fictional works meant to disturb or frighten. Some horror subgenres include:

19. Body horror

Body horror features graphic mutilations, disfigurations, or violations of the human body.

Examples : Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin

20. Comedy horror

Comedy horror books are one of the more interesting (and contradictory) on the list of book genres. They are just as likely to make you laugh as they are to make you scream. They are often referred to as “black comedies,” and rely heavily on the unexpected.

Examples : Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix and Man, F*ck This House by Brian Asman.

21. Gothic horror

Gothic horror features a battle between humanity and unnatural evil forces. The overall feel of gothic books is quite bleak and gloomy, and they are often set in castles or old manor houses. There is often a descent into madness involved.

Examples : The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde and Dracula by Bram Stoker.

22. Lovecraftian/Cosmic horror

Lovecraftian horror, also known as “cosmic horror” was popularized by the author H.P. Lovecraft (Imagine inventing your own category in the long list of book genres!). Lovecraftian novels assume that there are otherworldly forces that once ruled the Earth and are here again to destroy us. It relies on the dread that things are outside of your control.

Examples : The Call of Cthulhu and Other Weird Stories by H.P. Lovecraft and The Croning by Laird Barron.

23. Paranormal horror

Paranormal horror includes supernatural themes such as hauntings, curses, and possessions.

Examples : The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson and The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty.

24. Post-apocalyptic horror

Post-apocalyptic horror is set after our civilization has collapsed. It examines how we survive amidst zombies, plagues, climate change, or whatever disaster wiped humanity out.

Examples : The Stand by Stephen King and I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

25. Psychological horror

Psychological horror plays with your mind and twists your thoughts. There doesn’t need to be any monster for the fear to work its magic. Psychological books play with paranoia and self-doubt.

Examples : Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris and House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski.

26. Quiet horror

Quiet horror or “soft horror” leaves out the graphic scenes of some of the other horror types on our list of book genres. Instead of graphic violence, it relies on the atmosphere and mood to completely creep you out.

Examples : December Park by Ronald Malfi and The Woman in Black by Susan Hill.

27. Slasher

Slasher books contain sociopathic villains who are trying to kill the protagonists. They feature a lot of violence and suspense. Examples : Psycho by Robert Bloch and The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum.

28. LGBTQ+

Any fiction book that places LGBTQ+ characters at the forefront is considered LGBTQ+ fiction. It can otherwise fall into a number of genres on this master list of book genres.

Examples : Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston and The Color Purple by Alice Walker.

29. Literary fiction

Literary fiction is fiction writing that is considered highly valuable and artistic. These books often cover serious topics that make the reader stop and think. They can blend with many genres in this list of book genres.

Examples : The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin.

30. Mystery

One of the most fun genres in our master list of book genres is mystery. Mystery books contain an event (often a murder or a crime) that remains a mystery until the end of the book. These page-turners keep you guessing and often feature big plot twists.

Some subgenres of mystery include:

The first mystery subgenre on our list of book genres is capers. Capers are usually told from the point of view of the thief. They are light-hearted and humorous mysteries that focus on how (and if) they can get away with the crime.

Examples : The Heist by Daniel Silva and The Burglar Who Counted the Spoons by Lawrence Block.

32. Cozy mystery

Cozy mysteries are not grim or gruesome. They are light-hearted, and usually set in small towns where a crime is solved by an amateur detective – often a woman.

Examples : A Deadly Inside Scoop by Abby Collette and Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano.

33. Gumshoe/Detective mystery

Detective mysteries don’t have direct police tie-ins, and the mystery is solved directly by a professional or amateur detective.

Examples : The Terry Orr series by Jim Fusilli and the Temperance Brennan series by Kathy Reichs.

34. Historical mystery

Many items in this list of book genres are crossovers between two different book genres. Historical mysteries are fictional mysteries set in a historic time period.

Examples : Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara and Dead Dead Girls by Nekesa Afia.

35. Howdunnits

Unlike the other mystery types on our list of book genres, Howdunit mysteries are not about finding the perpetrator. In fact, they usually tell you who committed the crime straight away – and then focus on answering HOW the crime was committed.

Examples : A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin and The Demolished Man by Alfred Bester.

36. Locked room mystery

Next on the ultimate book genres list are locked room mystery books. These books cover “impossible” crimes – such as a murder committed in a windowless room that was locked from the inside. OR – they feature a small group of characters stuck together in a confined space.

Examples : Malice by Keigo Higashino and One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus.

Noir books, like film noir, involve classic morally-compromised detectives in trench coats solving crimes. Noir stories are usually set in gritty cities and have a dark or bleak atmosphere.

Examples : The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett and Queenpin by Megan Abbott.

38. Procedural/Hard-boiled mystery

Hard-boiled mysteries are more hardcore than other mystery types on our list of book genres. They include more violent, sex, and graphic details, and often include forensic science and autopsy reports – closely following an actual police procedure.

Examples : The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler and I, the Jury by Mickey Spillane.

39. Supernatural mystery

Supernatural mysteries combine elements of two other items on our book genres list: horror and fantasy. They involve mysteries that appear to include supernatural elements (which may or may not be explained with non-supernatural solutions).

Examples : The Enigma of Room 622 by Joël Dicker and The Pale Horse by Agatha Christie.

40. New adult

New adult books are a newly developing genre of fiction with protagonists in the 18–29 age range. New adult fiction includes more adult themes and graphic sex scenes than young adult books but still focuses on story arcs about coming-of-age of finding identity.

Examples : Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire and The Deal by Elle Kennedy.

41. Romance

Nothing on our list of book genres is read as voraciously as romance novels. Romance books turn some real profit for authors and center around would-be lovers and the obstacles they face in getting together.

Some subgenres of romance include:

42. Contemporary romance

Contemporary romance books take place in modern day and feature more relatable and realistic situations.

Examples : Beach Read by Emily Henry and The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood.

43. Dark romance

Dark romance is one of the most intense items on our list of book genres. It contains morally-gray characters and very mature content. These stories often come with trigger warnings, and center around plots of trauma and violence such as stalking, kidnapping, sex trafficking, or the mafia.

Examples : Asking for It by Lilah Pace and Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton.

44. Erotic romance

Erotic romance books focus on the buildup of sexual interactions and explicit sex scenes between characters.

Examples : Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James and Bared to You by Sylvia Day.

45. Fantasy romance (Romantasy)

Like others on this list of book genres, fantasy romance books mix (you guessed it) two genres. In this example, it’s fantasy and romance. They follow a typical romance book formula but are set in fantasy worlds.

Examples : Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

46. Gothic romance

Gothic romance novels are dark and gloomy and focus on the hurdles women face to be with the person they love. There are often secrets and mysteries involved, and they are usually set in old manor houses.

Examples : Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen and Within These Wicked Walls by Lauren Blackwood.

47. Historical romance

Historical romance stories are romance books set in a specific historic era.

Examples : Devil in Winter by Lisa Kleypas and the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon.

48. Paranormal romance

Paranormal romance books usually feature romantic partners that are supernatural – such as vampires or werewolves.

Examples : The Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer and the Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series by Laurell K. Hamilton.

49. Regency

Regency romance novels are typically set during the Regency Era in England (1795–1837) and focus on the societal norms of that time. Think balls, walks on the promenade, and marriages with much ado.

Examples : The Bridgertons series by Julia Quinn and Arabella by Georgette Heyer.

50. Romantic comedy

Romantic comedy books are precisely how they sound – romance books with ridiculous events and obstacles that will make you laugh out loud.

Examples : Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake by Sarah MacLean and Shortcake by Lucy Watson.

51. Romantic suspense

Romantic suspense novels are closely tied with gothic romance – which is where they first originated. You can think of romantic suspense novels as being about 50% romance and 50% suspense/mystery.

Examples : Verity by Colleen Hoover and The Witness by Nora Roberts.

52. Sci-fi romance

Sci-fi romance is a romance story with a science fiction setting or plot line. This could revolve around space travel, time travel, or any other sci-fi theme (see below).

Examples : The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer.

Satire books use humor and irony to poke fun at (or discredit) politics, systems of government, or societal norms.

Examples : Catch-22 by Joseph Heller and Animal Farm by George Orwell.

54. Science fiction

On our list of book genres, science fiction is most closely related to fantasy, with made-up worlds and species. But where science fiction and fantasy differ is that science and technology are at the root of science fiction stories. They still follow the laws of physics and possibility – not magic.

Here are some of the subgenres of science fiction (also known as “sci-fi”):

55. Apocalyptic sci-fi

Apocalyptic science fiction takes place after an apocalyptic event and focuses on how the remaining humans survive. It is similar to post-apocalyptic horror but focuses more on the reality of life and less on scare tactics and monsters.

Examples : Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler and Earth Abides by George R. Stewart.

56. Colonization sci-fi

Colonization science fiction books focus on colonizing a new planet or settlement after the Earth has been destroyed.

Examples : Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson and The Word for World Is Forest by Ursula K. Le Guin

57. Hard sci-fi

Hard science fiction books place a heavy emphasis on math, physics, chemistry, engineering, or other sciences. They have realistic science based on currently proven facts.

Examples : The Martian by Andy Weir and The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin.

58. Military sci-fi

Military science fiction books focus on a battle between two groups. This may be on Earth, in space, or between multiple planets.

Examples : Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao and Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card.

59. Mind uploading sci-fi

Mind uploading sci-fi focused on the concept that your consciousness can be uploaded or downloaded into another body or computer. This could be through alien intervention, complete brain transplants, or technology.

Examples : Altered Carbon by Richard K. Morgan and Six Wakes by Mur Lafferty.

60. Parallel world sci-fi

Parallel world science fiction deals with alternate realities. Characters pass through multiple worlds very similar to their own with interesting consequences.

Examples : Dark Matter by Blake Crouch and the Firebird series by Claudia Gray.

61. Soft sci-fi

While hard sci-fi focuses on the sciences and the “how” behind sci-fi plots, soft sci-fi focuses more on the human element. Soft sci-fi books examine politics, social constructs, and relationships amid a sci-fi backdrop.

Examples : 1984 by George Orwell and The Giver by Lois Lowry.

62. Space opera

Space operas are action books that are set in outer space. They often are long-running epic series.

Examples : The Dune Chronicles by Frank Herbert and The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells.

63. Space western

Take a western book and put it in outer space, and you have a space western. Thinks lawless frontiers, morally-gray characters, and lots of shoot-outs.

Examples : The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet by Becky Chambers and Persephone Station by Stina Leicht.

64. Steampunk

Steampunk books are a mix of the past and future. They feature steam-powered technology and 19th- and 20th-century aesthetics combined with futuristic elements.

Examples : Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld and Soulless by Gail Carriger.

65. Short story

Next on our list of book genres is short stories. Short stories are stories that are anywhere from 1,000 – 15,000 words in length, and they can be a mix of any topics on our list of genres.

Examples : The Lottery by Shirley Jackson and How to Become a Writer by Lorrie Moore.

66. Thriller

Another popular genre on our list of book genres is thrilled. A thriller often shares many attributes of mystery novels, but not all mysteries are thrillers, and not all thrillers are mysteries. So what differentiates these two items on our list of book genres? Thrillers are meant to evoke anxiety and tension and are first and foremost about the protagonist trying to save or protect themselves. Some subgenres of thriller fiction include:

67. Action thriller

Action thrillers include fast plot lines, violence, high-speed chases, and a life-changing journey for the protagonist.

Examples : The Summer House by James Patterson and The 6:20 Man by David Baldacci.

68. Conspiracy thriller

In conspiracy thrillers, the protagonist is up against a powerful organization after discovering a conspiracy that puts their life at risk.

Examples : Deception Point by Dan Brown and Private Moscow by James Patterson.

69. Disaster thriller

Disaster thrillers are written about natural or man-made disasters, such as volcanoes, tsunamis, or nuclear attacks.

Examples : One Second After by William R. Forstchen and Ashfall by Mike Mullin.

70. Espionage thriller

Espionage thrillers feature spies or secret agents as the protagonists. They usually need to infiltrate a foreign government or crime ring.

Examples : Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy by John le Carre and the Jason Bourne series by Robert Ludlum.

71. Forensic thriller

Forensic thrillers rely on finding evidence such as DNA or fingerprints to catch the perpetrator.

Examples : The Bone Collector by Jeffery Deaver and the Kay Scarpetta series by Patricia Cornwell.

72. Historical thriller

Historical thrillers are thrillers set in a specific time period. They often include real historical events and conspiracies.

Examples : The Devils of Cardona by Matthew Carr and The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen.

73. Legal thriller

Legal thrillers center around court and legal dilemmas. The protagonist can be a lawyer or someone wrongfully accused.

Examples : The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly and A Time to Kill by John Grisham.

74. Paranormal thriller

Paranormal thrillers add paranormal or supernatural elements to a typical thriller plot.

Examples : The Outsider by Stephen King and Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak.

75. Psychological thriller

Psychological thrillers are one of the most popular types of thriller on our list of book genres. These thrillers put the protagonist’s sanity at risk along with their physical safety. Because the protagonists are unstable, they are often unreliable narrators.

Examples : The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides and The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn.

76. Religious thriller

Religious thrillers are written about religious secrets or stolen religious artifacts. There may be dangerous cults involved.

Examples : The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry and The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.

77. Western

A classic American genre on our list of book genres is Western fiction. These books take place in the American Old West and feature plots with cattle ranches, bounty hunters, and shootouts.

Examples : Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry and Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy.

78. Women’s fiction

Women’s fiction can cover a variety of topics on our list of book genres and refers to any book written about the female experience or the role of women in society.

Examples : The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand and Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus.

79. Young adult

Like women’s fiction, young adult fiction can cover most topics on our list of book genres, but they are written for and about young adults, typically between ages 13-17. These books often cover coming-of-age story arcs and the trials of adolescence.

Examples : A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle and A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket.

80. Art & photography

While all the topics leading up to this point were fiction, the rest of the items on our list of book genres are nonfiction topics. These are factual books about real life.

The first nonfiction topic on our list of book genres is art and photography. Art and photography books can be written about art, or be more visual books that showcase art and photography. These make great coffee table books.

Examples : Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton and Art: The Definitive Visual Guide by Andrew Graham Dixon.

81. Autobiography/Memoir

Memoirs and autobiographies are written by the author about their own life. They focus on the author’s life trials and accomplishments.

Examples : Becoming by Michelle Obama and I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou.

82. Biography

Biographies are books written about an important or interesting person, usually after they have died, and often cover the entire span of the person’s life.

Examples : A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar and Prince: A Private View by Afshin Shahidi.

An essay is a short piece of writing where the author gives their thoughts (and often an argument) on a specific topic. They may be reflections and observations of the author, or a political statement.

Examples : Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin and Once More to the Lake by E. B. White.

84. Food & drink

Next on our list of book genres are cookbooks! Cookbooks can be simple collections of recipes, or contain information about the chef’s life or home country. They can cover food, beverages, or both.

Examples : Half-Baked Harvest by Tieghan Gerard and The Ultimate Bar Book by Mittie Hellmich.

85. History

Historical nonfiction is a well-researched, factual accounting of a historical event or time period.

Examples : The Lessons of History by Will & Ariel Durant and The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber & David Wengrow.

86. How-To/Guides

How-to books teach the reader how to get better at a craft, skill, or hobby, or give them an overview of all the information they need to know on a specific topic.

Examples : The Essential Guide to Freelance Writing by Zachary Petit and How to Read Tarot by Jessica Wiggan.

87. Humanities & social sciences

The next item on our list of book genres covers a number of topics. Books in the humanities study human society and relationships – and can include anthropology, sociology, politics, and many other subjects.

Examples : Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller and Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari.

Humor books are written with one goal in mind – to make the reader laugh! They are often satirical essays or memoirs.

Examples : Bossypants by Tina Fey and Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling.

89. Parenting

Parenting books teach parents how to raise their children – including how to prepare for their arrival!

Examples : Raising Good Humans by Hunter Clarke-Fields and The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel.

90. Philosophy

Philosophy nonfiction explores ethics, moral dilemmas, and the purpose of life on earth.

Examples : Meditations by Marcus Aurelius and Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.

91. Religion & spirituality

Books on religion and spirituality cover a range of topics, from actual religious texts like the Bible and the Quran to books on spiritual philosophies, mindfulness, and energy healing.

Examples : The Untethered Soul by Michael Alan Singer and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.

92. Science & technology

Science and technology books are written about the sciences – either to help readers have a greater understanding of them or to teach about the evolution of technology.

Examples : The Joy of Science by Jim Al-Khalili and A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking.

93. Self-help

One of the most popular nonfiction genres on our list of book genres is self-help. Self-help books cover topics from finances to organization to mental health and help readers improve themselves in some way.

Examples : Atomic Habits by James Clear and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Undoubtedly one of the most fun nonfiction topics on our list of genres is travel. Travel books can be travel guides to various countries or memoirs of the author’s own travels.

Examples : Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert and Down Under by Bill Bryson.

95. True crime

The last item on our master list of book genres is true crime. True crime books describe actual crimes from start to finish.

Examples : In Cold Blood by Truman Capote and I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara.

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21 of the Most Popular Book Genres, Explained

Trust us, this is interesting.

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But when you're a major reader, it's easy to get caught up in what seems to be an endless array of genres that sometimes seem to box you in. Do you prefer sci-fi or fantasy? (But wait, are they the same thing?) What are the key differences between a thriller and a mystery ? Oh, and what does "literary fiction" even mean?

For all you bibliophiles who would like these burning questions answered, we've listed—and defined—the most popular book genres in both fiction and nonfiction so you'll know exactly what to look for during your next visit to the bookstore .

Fiction : " Something invented by the imagination or feigned" - Merriam-Webster

Action and Adventure

Action and adventure books constantly have you on the edge of your seat with excitement, as your fave main character repeatedly finds themselves in high stakes situations. The protagonist has an ultimate goal to achieve and is always put in risky, often dangerous situations. This genre typically crosses over with others like mystery, crime, sci-fi, and fantasy. ( Harry Potter anyone? )

The Three Musketeers

The Call of the Wild

You may think of these books as the throwback readings you were assigned in English class. (Looking at you, Charles Dickens .) The classics have been around for decades, and were often groundbreaking stories at their publish time, but have continued to be impactful for generations, serving as the foundation for many popular works we read today.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Little Women

Vintage Beloved

Comic book or graphic novel.

The stories in comic books and graphic novels are presented to the reader through engaging, sequential narrative art (illustrations and typography) that's either presented in a specific design or the traditional panel layout you find in comics. With both, you'll often find the dialogue presented in the tell-tale "word balloons" next to the respective characters.

The Walking Dead: Compendium One

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Detective and mystery.

The plot always revolves around a crime of sorts that must be solved—or foiled—by the protagonists.

The Night Fire

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

And Then There Were None

While usually set in a fictional imagined world—in opposition, Ta-Nehisi's Coates's The Water Dancer takes place in the very real world of American slavery— fantasy books include prominent elements of magic, mythology, or the supernatural.

The Water Dancer

Ninth House

Historical fiction.

These books are based in a time period set in the past decades, often against the backdrop of significant (real) historical events.

One Hundred Years of Solitude

Vintage Memoirs of a Geisha

Meant to cause discomfort and fear for both the character and readers, horror writers often make use of supernatural and paranormal elements in morbid stories that are sometimes a little too realistic. The master of horror fiction? None other than Stephen King .

The Haunting of Hill House

Literary Fiction

Though it can be seen as a broad genre that encompasses many others, literary fiction refers to the perceived artistic writing style of the author. Their prose is meant to evoke deep thought through stories that offer personal or social commentary on a particular theme.

Where the Crawdads Sing

Olive, Again

The Dutch House: A Novel

Oh romance, how could we ever resist you? The genre that makes your heart all warm and fuzzy focuses on the love story of the main protagonists. This world of fiction is extremely wide-reaching in and of itself, as it has a variety of sub-genres including: contemporary romance, historical, paranormal, and the steamier erotica . If you're in need of any suggestions, we've got a list of the best romances of all time and the top picks of the year.

Brazen and the Beast

Royal Holiday

Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)

Though they're often thought of in the same vein as fantasy, what distinguishes science fiction stories is that they lean heavily on themes of technology and future science. You'll find apocalyptic and dystopian novels in the sci-fi genre as well.

Nan A. Talese The Testaments

The Hunger Games Trilogy

Short Stories

Though they encompass many of the genres we describe here, short stories are brief prose that are significantly, well, shorter than novels. Writers strictly tell their narratives through a specific theme and a series of brief scenes, though many authors compile these stories in wide-ranging collections, as featured below.

This Is How You Lose Her

How Long 'til Black Future Month?

Suspense and thrillers.

While they often encompass the same elements as mystery books, the suspense and thriller genre sees the hero attempt to stop and defeat the villain to save their own life rather than uncover a specific crime. Thrillers typically include cliffhangers and deception to encourage suspense, while pulling the wool over the eyes of both the main character and reader.

The 19th Christmas

The Guardians

Women's fiction.

Another genre that encompasses many others, women's fiction is written specifically to target female readers, often reflecting on the shared experiences of being a woman in society and the protagonist's personal growth.

My Sister, the Serial Killer

The Queen of Hearts

Red at the Bone

Nonfiction : "Writing or cinema that is about facts and real events" - Merriam-Webster

Biographies and Autobiographies

Serving as an official account of the details and events of a person's life span, autobiographies are written by the subject themselves, while biographies are written by an author who is not the focus of the book.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Traditionally penned by professional chefs or even your favorite celebs , cookbooks offer an appetizing collection of recipes, specific to a theme, cuisine, or experience chosen by the author.

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Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Volume 1

Typically written in the first-person, writers use their own personal experiences to reflect on a theme or topic for the reader. Many acclaimed authors—like James Baldwin and Toni Morrison—combine these pieces into collections of social commentary.

Notes of a Native Son

Bad Feminist

The Source of Self-Regard

These books chronicle and layout a specific moment in time, with a goal to educate and inform the reader, looking at all parts of the world at any given moment.

The Six Wives of Henry VIII

While a form of autobiography, memoirs are more flexible in that they typically don't feature an extensive chronological account of the writer's life. Instead, they focus on key moments and scenes that communicate a specific message or lesson to the reader about the author.

Born a Crime

The Glass Castle

With poetry—a form of written art— authors choose a particular rhythm and style to evoke and portray various emotions and ideas. Sometimes the message is clear (like a straight-forward love poem ) while with others, the meaning is hidden behind a play on words—it all depends on the writer's style, intent, and chosen theme.

Sylvia Plath: The Collected Poems

The Sun and Her Flowers

There Are More Beautiful Things Than Beyoncé

Whether the focus is on emotional well-being , finances, or spirituality, self-help books center on encouraging personal improvement and confidence in a variety of facets of your life.

Harper Everything Is F*cked

Dare to Lead

Like its much-loved television counterparts, true crime books chronicle and examine actual crimes and events in exacting detail, with many focusing on infamous murders, kidnappings, and the exploits of serial killers.

Catch and Kill

I'll Be Gone in the Dark

Helter Skelter

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McKenzie Jean-Philippe is the editorial assistant at OprahMag.com covering pop culture, TV, movies, celebrity, and lifestyle. She loves a great Oprah viral moment and all things Netflix—but come summertime, Big Brother has her heart. On a day off you'll find her curled up with a new juicy romance novel.

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A Reader’s Guide To The Different Book Genres

Margaret Kingsbury

Margaret Kingsbury grew up in a house so crammed with books she couldn’t open a closet door without a book stack tumbling, and she’s brought that same decorative energy to her adult life. Margaret has an MA in English with a concentration in writing and has worked as a bookseller and adjunct English professor. She’s currently a freelance writer and editor, and in addition to Book Riot, her pieces have appeared in School Library Journal, BuzzFeed News, The Lily, Parents, StarTrek.com, and more. She particularly loves children’s books, fantasy, science fiction, horror, graphic novels, and any books with disabled characters. You can read more about her bookish and parenting shenanigans in Book Riot’s twice-weekly The Kids Are All Right newsletter. You can also follow her kidlit bookstagram account @BabyLibrarians , or on Twitter @AReaderlyMom .

View All posts by Margaret Kingsbury

Genres are ways of categorizing books to make them more easily found by readers. Categorizing book genres is a necessity with any large collection. Whether it be at a library or bookstore, readers need to know where to find a book, and also find similar types of books they might enjoy. But categorizing books also comes with its headaches. Some authors write across multiple genres, or a single book can be considered multiple genres. And some people have pet peeves about categories and/or category names. Be that as it may, book genres are still the most practical and efficient way to tag books for readers.

What does genre mean to me?

I used multiple methods for choosing and defining fiction and nonfiction genres and sub-genres. In addition to my 11 years of experience as a book buyer, I looked at the websites of a couple large bookstores, a few publisher websites, and the library of congress categories. The following book genres are an amalgamation of these sources.

Side notes: These categories apply to all age groups, thus, young adult, middle grade, etc. are not included as separate genres. Young adult books exist for every single one of these book genres, for example. Similarly, I don’t include graphic novels, because there can be graphic novels in any category. Graphics are a way of presenting a genre vs a separate genre.

Fiction Book Genres

Books that describe imaginary events and people, or tell a story about real people and events using imaginary details.

A book or author that’s stood the test of time and has continued to inspire meaningful discussion and thought across generations. As gruesome as it sounds, I argue that the author needs to be dead for a book of theirs to be considered a classic. For example, Toni Morrison continues to write and to be an active member of the literary community. While I have no doubt her books will be classics, for now, they’re literary fiction.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Literary Fiction

Books deemed as having artistic qualities. Often subtle in theme and contain some kind of social/political/personal commentary on what it means to be human. Can contain other genre elements, but the author uses those elements not to be parts of that community, but to highlight an important theme in their work.

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

General Fiction

These books offer fun, engaging stories in a contemporary setting. They’re more approachable than Literary Fiction, and contain none of the genre elements in other categories.

32 Candles by Ernessa T. Carter

Historical Fiction

Books that take place at least 30 years before the time the author writes them. Subcategories are often broken up by time frames.

Circe by Madeleine Miller

A book where the primary plot involves falling in love (of the romantic variety) and has a happy or emotionally satisfying ending. Because this is a category with many sub-genres, the examples listed are by sub-genre.

Mystery/Suspense

Action/Adventure

High-stake novels with frequent scene changes, where the protagonist is constantly being put at risk.

Novels set in either a completely fictional world, or set in a version of this world that includes magic.

Science Fiction

A novel where supernatural elements create fear and terror, both within the novel and for the reader.

Nonfiction Book Genres

Books that utilize factual information about a topic to the best of the author’s ability.

Books which examine past true events. These can be broad surveys of a specific country, region, and/or time period, or they can focus on a specific event or set of events. They’re often heavily researched and can utilize academic language or be highly narrative.

The Woman’s Hour by Elaine Weiss

cover-of-ida-a-sword-among-lions-paula-giddings

Ida: A Sword Among Lions by Paula J. Giddings

Books where the information is primarily concerned with the aesthetic vs the factual.

you can't touch my hair by phoebe robinson

You Can’t Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have To Explain by Phoebe Robinson

Books which examine a specific religion, the history of religions, and/or the practice of worshiping a deity/deities. Includes holy books.

The History of God by Karen Armstrong

Folklore Studies

Collections and studies of fairytales, legends, storytelling, and folklore.

From the Beast to the Blonde by Marina Warner

Study of the nature of knowledge, existence, and being from an academic perspective.

The Psychic Life of Power by Judith Butler

New Age & Alternative Beliefs

Books that examine nontraditional spirituality or non-mainstream belief practices.

Health & Wellness

Books that describe ways of staying healthy: how to prevent or fight a specific medical issues; nutritional ideas; alternative medicine; nursing textbooks; sex, etc.

Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom by Christiane Northrup

Books which explain physical or natural science concepts, including mathematics, technology, chemistry, biology, physics, engineering and more.

Black Hole: How an Idea Abandoned by Newtonians, Hated by Einstein, and Gambled On by Hawking Became Loved by Marcia Bartusiak

Social Science

Books that examine mental and emotional functions and well-being.

Books that look at the education system, including teaching how-to guides, curriculum guides, lesson plan collections, homeschool guides, special education, and test prep.

Teaching to Transgress by bell hooks

Books which provide basic, objective information, like dictionaries, encyclopedias, and books of quotations.

Encyclopedia of Feminist Literary Theory by Elizabeth Kowaleski Wallace

Business & Economics

Books about managing and creating businesses, job skills and career advice, personal and business finance, investing, and how money works.

Creative, Inc.: The Ultimate Guide to Running a Successful Freelance Business by Joy Deangdeelert Cho andMeg Mateo Ilasco

Communications

Books about the ways communication occurs, communicating in other languages, the best ways to communicate, and the technical aspects of types of communication.

Home & Garden

Books about designing, organizing, taking care of, decorating, and otherwise loving homes and gardens.

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

Animal & Pet Care

Books about taking care of and loving animals.

The Chicken Chick’s Guide to Backyard Chickens: Simple Steps for Healthy, Happy Hens by Kathy Shea Mormino

Recreation & Leisure

Books about activities and hobbies done or consumed primarily for enjoyment.

I Am a Filipino: And This Is How We Cook by Nicole Ponseca and Miguel Trinidad

Books that tell the story of a specific crime or criminal, collect stories of various criminals, or tell of a historical crime.

The Fact of a Body: A Murder and a Memoir by Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich

And hey, book genres can be funny too.

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22 Different Types of Books (Genres and Non-Fiction Options)

Posted on January 31, 2019

If you consider the thousands of different books available in the world, the adage, “So many books, so little time” takes on a completely new meaning. In fact, just the genres and sub-genres are so many that they are impossible to list down.

All book lovers have their own favorite genre — in fact, multiple favorite genres. In all honesty, there are so many genres to choose from, that there are many who have a preferred genre for every mood.

Book Genre Chart

What is a Genre?

A genre is a category or style of literature, music, art and other forms of entertainment. The genre system first began as a classification process for ancient Geek literature, including poetry, prose, and performance. Each genre has a specific, distinct style relating to theme, content, tone, details, and intensity. Patterns of speech for a tragedy would not be appropriate for a comedy, for example. To make matters even more confusing, most works of fiction fall under more than one genre. Case in point: “Gulliver’s Travels” by Jonathan Swift falls under classic, fantasy, satire, and adventure.

Types of Books

All books can be broadly classified under two main categories: fiction and non-fiction

A work of fiction is one that is derived from the imagination. The great thing about fiction is that it could be inspired or partially borrows from real-life situations, but that is as far as it could go. Fictional books are often synonymously categorized under the umbrella term of “novel.” The category of fiction is immense and has a huge plethora of sub-divisions or genres, which is both a boon and a curse for bookworms.

The polar opposite of fictional books, nonfiction books are based on facts, true accounts of history and real events. Also, unlike fiction books, nonfiction books have relatively few genres. The most common types of books that make up nonfictional works are biographies, autobiographies, almanacs and encyclopedias.

Genres of Fiction Books

As mentioned before, the subcategories of fiction are too many to count. We have, however, tried our best and listed some of the most common types of genres below. Remember, many of these books can be fitted under several different genres.

Humorist writer Mark Twain once said, “Classic – a book which people praise and don’t read.” Perhaps that was true during his time but today, classics are some of the most commonly read books and are widely taught in most schools. These books pertain to a particular time period and place, and are deemed to have literary merits

Some examples of famous literary classics are “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, “Alice in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll and “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens.

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Tragedy is a branch of drama written in a serious style that focuses on human suffering or tragic events, brought into motion most often by a heroic individual. Much of the works of tragedy serves to question the role of man in the universe and plays a historic role in the self-definition of the Western civilization.

“For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo,” William Shakespeare wrote in his tragedy drama, “Rome and Juliet” and indeed, he and his Elizabethan contemporaries were the ones who produced the most successful and famous tragedy dramas that survived the test of ages.

Some famous tragedies by different writers are “Hamlet” by Shakespeare, “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte and “Requiem of a Dream” by Hubert Selby, Jr.

Science Fiction

One of the most complex genres of literature, science-fiction is an umbrella term for a genre of fiction dealing with the advanced concepts of science, technology, time travel, space exploration, extra terrestrial life, alternate timelines, cyberpunk and end of the world. As such, science fiction books often veer off into the world of fantasy, adventure, mystery, supernatural and dystopian fiction.

Fortunately, this genre also encompasses some of the most thrilling literary works. Some examples of science fiction books are “Frankenstein” or “The Modern Prometheus” (which is also a tragedy) by Mary Shelley, “The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells and “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams.

The most enjoyed genre by teens, young adults and even older individuals, fantasy books are works of speculative fiction, which generally revolves around magic, the supernatural and witchcraft. A lot of fantasy writers use mythology, theology and folklore as inspiration.

Like science fiction, the depth of this genre is vast and contains sub-genres like fairytales, epic fantasy, dark fantasy, urban fantasy, gods and demon fantasy, gothic fiction and fables.

Some of the most famous fantasy books include the “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling, “Lord of the Rings” by J.R. Tolkien, “The Dark Tower” series by Stephen King, “The Folk of the Faraway Tree” by Enid Blyton, and “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis.

Fairytale is a subgenre of fantasy but because it’s such a vast category, it deserves its own section. Most fairytales take the form of short stories, though today, this is not always the case. Such books usually involve fairies, dwarfs, princesses, goblins, unicorns, elves, talking animals, trolls, dragons and other magical creatures.

Some of the most famous fairytale books include “Grimms’ Fairy Tales” by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, Uprooted by Naomi Novik, Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson and Snow White.

The adventure genre usually follows a reluctant hero leaving his familiar world behind to embark on a dangerous quest, where he encounters challenges, temptations and revelations. Helped along by mentors, guardians and friends, the hero navigates the unfamiliar world of adventure, defeats evil and returns home, successful and transformed.

This is one of the most popular types of creative fiction genre and is crossed by fantasy, supernatural, mystery, thriller and other sub-genres. Some of the best example of adventure fiction is “Treasure Island” by R. L. Stevenson, “The Hobbit” by J.R. Tolkien, “the Prisoner of Zenda” by Anthony Hope, “The Odyssey” by Homer and “Around the World in 80 Days” by Jules Verne.

Crime & Mystery

Murder on the Orient Express[MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS][Paperback]

The crime and mystery genre of fiction usually revolves around a mysterious death or a baffling crime that needs to be solved. Usually, the book’s main protagonist is a detective who solves the mystery by logical deductions. The other characters are suspects and each of them are assigned credible motives and opportunities to commit the crime.

The best mystery novel genre usually focuses on the starkly different views of morality and the societal aspects that the hero and the antagonist represent. Crimes and mystery novels are the most popular genre in the United States.

Some of the most masterful mystery novels are “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown and the “Sherlock Holmes” novels by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Historical Fiction

Historical fiction is based less on accurate historical facts and more on imagination. This literary genre takes place in a setting located in the past and pays attention to the mannerism, society and other details of the period depicted. To make the books seem true to life, authors sometimes insert notable historical figures in the setting, so that readers can better understand how these people would have responded to their environment.

Some historical novels include “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak, “Schindler’s Ark,” popularly known as “Schindler’s List” by Thomas Keneally and “Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys.

The Book Thief : Film tie-in(Paperback) - 2016 Edition

A humorous fiction is a novel-length work of comedy, wherein the writer seeks to amuse or entertain the reader in a carefully woven narrative. The humor genre is also so huge that it needs to be divided into several sub-genres, including shock comedy, horror comedy, irony, satirical and parody.

Some of the best humorous novels include “My Family and Other Animals,” (which is also a semi-fictional autobiography) by Gerald Durrell, “The Confessions of a Shopaholic” series by Sophie Kinsella and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl.

Fictional Diaries

Memoirs Of A Geisha by Arthur Golden (1998-06-04)

Fictional diaries are works of literature where the story is told in the form of a character’s diary. This is different from biographies, which only narrate true events, rather than fictionalized versions of fictionalized characters.

Some notable examples of fictional diaries include “The Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by Jeff Kinney, “Memoirs of a Geisha” by Arthur Golden and “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker.

Cabin Fever (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Book 6)

One of the most complex and profound genres of fiction, satire features the abuses, vices, maltreatment, corruption and shortcomings that seek to shame societies, individuals and governments into improvement.

Most satirical fictions feature dark humor and irony, although its greater purpose is actually constructive criticism of the society.

Some famous examples are “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding, “Animal Farm” by George Orwell, “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde and “The Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess.

Although romance is a style of heroic prose and verse narrative involving awe-inspiring incidents (like the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” by the 14 th century Chinese writer Luo Guanzhong), these days the genre mostly focuses on a loving relationship between two people. Often, these books end in “happy endings,” although that is not a given. Romance fictions also come in a variety of subgenres, like historical romance, fantasy, drama and paranormal.

Some famous romance novels are “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, “Love in the Time of Cholera” by Gabriel Garcia Márquez , “Eleanor &Park” by Rainbow Rowell and “Love Story” by Erich Segal.

By Rainbow Rowell Eleanor & Park [Paperback]

A genre of fiction which seeks to provoke feelings of fear, disgust, shock, terror and loathing in the reader, horror books have roots in ancient mythology and folklore.

The ancient Romans and Greeks focused on evil, death, afterlife, the demonic and these principles embodied within a person. These elements were manifested into creative works featuring witches, ghosts, vampires, werewolves and other monsters.

The horror genre creates an atmosphere of fright and creepiness. It may often be supernatural but that is not always the case.

One of the best horror writers of our time is Stephen King, whose novels “Carrie,” “The Shining” and “It” have terrified generations of readers. Some other prominent horror novels include “Dracula” by Bram Stoker and “Rosemary’s Baby” by Ira Levin.

Rosemary's Baby: Introduction by Chuck Palanhiuk by Ira Levin (2011-06-23)

Dystopia, literally translated from Greek as “bad place,” is a society that is frightening or disagreeable. Dystopian fiction often portrays characteristics of such societies and such books are often crossovers from the science fiction genre. Some of these books may feature apocalyptic literature, though not always.

Some of the most distinct dystopian works are “1984” by George Orwell, “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins and “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood.

Genres of Nonfiction Books

Nonfiction genres are fewer than fiction books. As with fiction, they often have cross-genre status.

Biography/Autobiography

A biography is a detailed, intimate and highly personal narration of an individual’s life story. A biography written by the subject themselves is called an autobiography or autography. The work doesn’t just involve the person’s birth, education, work, relationship and death; it revolves around the circumstances leading to each. Most biographies are nonfiction, though some may add an element of exaggeration to it, which may result in the literature becoming semi-fiction.

Some famous example are “I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Christina Lamb and Malala Yousafzai and “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank.

Memoirs are a collection of an individual’s experiences and events. They are sometimes considered a subgenre of biographies, although memoirs focus on a single touchstone in an individual’s life, rather than their entire life.

Some examples are “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” by Stephen King, “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert and “Night” by Elie Wiesel.

Self-Help Book

Chicken Soup for the Soul 20th Anniversary Edition: All Your Favorite Original Stories Plus 20 Bonus Stories for the Next 20 Years

A self-help book is one that is written to help readers solve personal physical, emotional and psychological problems. These books are also classified under “self-improvement” and have now become a postmodern cultural phenomenon. Although these books purport to help people, many of them are often written as catharsis by authors who have struggled to solve their own issues.

Some of the best self-help books are “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, “Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus” by John Gray and “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey.

Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: The Classic Guide to Understanding the Opposite Sex

Narrative Nonfiction

Also called creative nonfiction or literary nonfiction, this genre uses literary techniques to create a factually accurate body of work. This type of genre encompasses biographies, memoirs, food writing, itinerary and personal essays.

Some examples are “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton, “Cravings: Hungry for More” by Chrissy Teigen and “Calypso” by David Sedaris.

The Art of Travel by de Botton, Alain (2014) Paperback

Nonfiction Novels

Broadly speaking, nonfiction novels feature real historical figures and events, woven together with fiction-like storytelling techniques. It is also sometimes called a work of “faction,” which is a portmanteau of fact and fiction.

Some famous examples are “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote, “The Armies of the Night” by Norman Mailer and “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly.

Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race

Reference Books

As the name indicates, reference books are various types of text which can be referred for accurate information. The writing style is informative, there is no use of first person and the book is focused on facts. Some types of reference books are bibliographies, dictionaries, thesaurus, almanacs and encyclopedia.

The above genres are only some of the most popular types available in the market. Truth be told, all of us already know the basics of these genre, although not many of us have had the opportunity to explore them in depth. Everyone has a favorite type of book but it is even better to explore other genres. You never know what jewels you may find.

As C.S. Lewis once said, “We read to know we are not alone.”

The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2019

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In this blog post The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 95+ Popular Genres & Subgenres we will cover the immense array of book genres and subgenres available. We hope that this post can assist you in choosing a genre that matches your writing style and can help you along in your writing journey. Our intention is to provide you with a comprehensive overview to aid you in finding the genre that resonates with your unique writing style.

In this blog post, The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 95+ Popular Genres & Subgenres, we will cover some of the many book genres and subgenres available. We hope that this post can assist you in choosing a genre that matches your writing style and can help you along in your writing journey.

Literary Fiction

Contemporary fiction, historical fiction, thriller and suspense.

Action & Adventure

Science Fiction

Utopian fiction, speculative fiction, magic realism, satire fiction, holiday fiction, graphic novel, short story, young adult, middle grade, women’s fiction.

Historical Nonfiction

Memoir and autobiography.

Narrative nonfiction

Religion and Spirituality

Art and photography, how-to and diy.

Understanding the genre you intend to write before starting your book is important for several reasons:

Reader Expectations: Each genre has its unique set of conventions, themes, and tropes that readers anticipate. Knowing your genre allows you to meet these expectations and keep your readers happy. Readers who pick up a mystery novel, for example, expect a puzzle to be solved, while fantasy readers anticipate magical worlds. If you kill off the main character in a romance novel fans may be ready to riot against you.
The Marketability Of Your Books: Publishers, agents, and booksellers rely heavily on genre categorization to market and sell books. For self-publishing authors, also need to know their genre so they can target their marketing to get their book in front of the correct audience.
Writing Guidelines: Different genres often come with specific writing guidelines. Romance novels, for instance, have certain conventions regarding character development and the central romantic plot. Understanding these guidelines can help structure your story effectively.
Reader Engagement: Readers often choose books based on their preferred genres. If you know your genre, you can tailor your writing to resonate more deeply with your target audience, increasing the chances of reader engagement and positive reviews.
Competitive Edge: The publishing industry is highly competitive. Knowing your genre allows you to identify your competition and differentiate your work. It helps you find a unique angle or twist that sets your book apart from others in the same genre.

The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 95+ Popular Genres & Subgenres

Fiction Book Genres

Literary fiction is a genre characterized by its focus on more artistic storytelling. It delves into profound themes that show the human experience through stories primarily centered around complex characters. Literary fiction focuses more on the narrative structure and quality of writing rather than plot-driven stories. Literary fiction tends to challenge conventional storytelling norms and may not always follow genre norms, making it more unpredictable and open to interpretation, whereas popular fiction follows more of a set structure where the plot moves the story forward. Popular fiction has more emphasis on fast-paced storytelling, entertainment, and meeting genre-specific expectations. Literary Fiction is often a more open-ended exploration of storytelling that aims to be thought-provoking rather than entertaining.

Contemporary fiction focuses on the challenges and predicaments faced by the protagonist in relatable real-world experiences. Contemporary fiction places its characters in the midst of the challenges of everyday life in the contemporary era. These narratives often revolve around the intricacies of relationships, workplace dynamics, and the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment, all set against the backdrop of the modern world.

This genre overlaps with others such as Contemporary Romance or Contemporary Fantasy. It primarily serves as a classification showing that the story unfolds in the present day.

Romance novels focus on the development of romantic relationships between characters and explore themes of love, passion, and emotional connection. In the romance genre, the core of the story revolves around the romantic relationship, with the love between characters taking center stage. Romance novels are well known for their depiction of sensual tension, and desire, and many feature explicit intimate encounters. This genre, like others, comes with distinct reader expectations. With the number one reader expectation of a "happily ever after" ending. Readers want things to work out for the romantic couple.

There are different heat levels in romance books such as sweet, warm, sensual, spicy, and erotic.

Romance frequently serves as a subplot within many novels, often playing a complementary role in the story. In books where romance functions as a subplot, the central storyline remains separate, focusing on matters unrelated to the romantic relationship. Instead, the presence of romance contributes to the overall plot, injecting elements of conflict or intrigue.

Popular Romance Subgenres

Contemporary Romance: Set in modern times, these stories focus on love and relationships in today's world.
Historical Romance: These romances are set in a historical time period, often featuring historical events, settings, and cultural nuances.
Regency Romance: A subset of historical romance, Regency romances are specifically set in the early 19th century during the British Regency era.
Paranormal Romance: Combining elements of the supernatural with romance, these stories often involve vampires, werewolves, witches, and other paranormal creatures in romantic plots.
Fantasy Romance: Set in fantastical worlds, these stories blend romance with elements of high fantasy, magic, and mythical creatures.
Science Fiction Romance: These romances are set in futuristic or science fiction settings, often exploring love in space or in technologically advanced societies.
Erotic Romance: Known for their explicit and sensual content, erotic romances focus on the physical aspects of romantic relationships.
Romantic Suspense: These stories combine romance with elements of suspense and intrigue, often featuring protagonists dealing with danger or mystery.
Chick-Lit Romance: Centered on the lives and romantic experiences of young women, chick lit often includes humor and a focus on personal growth.
New Adult Romance: Geared towards readers in their late teens to early twenties, these romances explore the challenges of transitioning into adulthood.
Clean Romance: These romances emphasize emotional connections and love stories without explicit content or mature themes.
Multicultural Romance: Celebrating diverse backgrounds and cultures, these stories feature characters from various ethnicities and backgrounds.
Second Chance Romance: Often involving reunited lovers or couples getting a second shot at love, these romances explore themes of forgiveness and redemption.
Sports Romance: Set in the world of sports, these stories often feature athletes and the challenges they face in relationships.
Small-Town Romance: These romances are set in close-knit communities, emphasizing the charm of small towns and the connections between residents.
Holiday Romance: Typically centered around holidays like Christmas, these stories explore love and romance in festive settings.
Amish Romance: Set in Amish communities, these romances delve into the unique customs and traditions of the Amish way of life.
Romantic Comedy: Combining romance with humor, these stories focus on lighthearted and funny romantic situations, often leading to comedic misunderstandings and happy endings.
Christian Romance: These romances incorporate Christian faith and values into love stories, often exploring themes of faith, redemption, and the power of love.
Cozy Mystery Romance: Blending romance with the cozy mystery genre, these stories involve amateur sleuths solving mysteries while navigating romantic relationships.
Western Romance: Set in the American West, these romances capture the spirit of the frontier and often involve rugged cowboys and strong-willed heroines finding love on the open range.
Billionaire Romance: Featuring wealthy protagonists, these romances often involve characters from different socioeconomic backgrounds finding love.
Gothic Romance: Rooted in the gothic tradition, these romances often feature dark, mysterious settings, old mansions, and elements of the supernatural or the macabre, all intertwined with passionate love stories.
Time Travel Romance: Characters in these stories navigate love across different time periods, often involving time travel or historical elements.
Mail-Order Bride Romance: These stories explore relationships that begin with arranged marriages or agreements, often set in historical or Western settings.

Historical fiction, blends historical events, locations, and people into a fictional story. These stories unfold against the backdrop of real historical periods, yet authors introduce alterations and changes. For example, the main character in the story may be someone who never existed or some things may happen a bit differently. Some stories have real people who exist in the background of the story or these made-up fictional characters may interact with real historical figures.

Popular Historical Fiction Subgenres

Historical Romance: Combining historical settings with romantic storylines, these novels focus on love and relationships within a historical context.
Historical Mystery: These stories blend historical settings with mystery plots, often involving amateur sleuths solving crimes in the past.
Historical Adventure: Combining historical accuracy with thrilling adventures, these novels often feature explorers, pirates, or adventurers in historical settings.
Historical Fantasy: Merging historical settings with elements of fantasy, such as magic, mythical creatures, or supernatural events.
Historical Thriller: Intense and suspenseful narratives set in the past, often involving espionage, intrigue, or high-stakes conflict.
Historical War Fiction: Focusing on the events, characters, and impact of wars throughout history, such as World War II or the American Civil War.
Historical Biographical Fiction: These books fictionalize the lives of real historical figures, offering readers a narrative exploration of their experiences.
World War I Fiction: Focusing on the events, characters, and impact of World War I, including the challenges and sacrifices made during this tumultuous period.
World War II Historical Fiction: Centered on the events of World War II, these stories provide a window into the lives of individuals affected by the war.
Ancient Historical Fiction: Set in ancient civilizations like Rome, Greece, or Egypt, these novels transport readers to distant historical eras.
Medieval Historical Fiction: These stories are set in the medieval period, often featuring knights, castles, and feudal society.
Regency Historical Fiction: Specifically set in the early 19th century during the British Regency era, these novels often involve societal norms and aristocratic life.
Civil War Historical Fiction: Focused on the American Civil War, these stories explore the lives of individuals caught in the midst of this historic conflict.
Victorian Historical Fiction: Set during the Victorian era, these novels capture the social and cultural dynamics of the 19th century.
Tudor Historical Fiction: Centered on the Tudor dynasty in England, these stories often revolve around the reigns of monarchs like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.
Colonial Historical Fiction: These narratives transport readers to the early days of colonial America, exploring the challenges and triumphs of settlers.
Nautical Historical Fiction: Set on the high seas, these novels often feature sailors, pirates, or naval adventures in historical settings.
Renaissance Historical Fiction: Set during the Renaissance period, these stories explore the artistic, cultural, and political developments of the time.
Prehistoric Historical Fiction: These novels are set in prehistoric eras, featuring early human societies and their struggles for survival.
Rural Historical Fiction: Often set in rural or agricultural communities, these stories highlight the lifestyles and challenges of the countryside.
Colonial and Postcolonial Fiction: Examining the effects of colonization and its aftermath in various regions of the world.
Industrial Revolution Historical Fiction: Set during the Industrial Revolution, these narratives delve into the societal changes brought about by technological advancements.
Holocaust Historical Fiction: Focused on the Holocaust during World War II, these stories offer a poignant look at the experiences of survivors and victims.
Roaring Twenties Historical Fiction: Set in the 1920s, these novels capture the vibrancy and societal shifts of the Jazz Age.
Historical Family Saga: Multigenerational stories that follow a family or lineage through different historical periods.
Pirate Fiction: Stories centered on pirates and their adventures, often taking place during the Golden Age of Piracy.
Gilded Age Fiction: Set in the late 19th century, during the Gilded Age in the United States, exploring the social, economic, and cultural dynamics of this era of rapid industrialization and wealth accumulation.
Revolutionary War Historical Fiction: Centered on the American Revolutionary War, these stories explore the struggles for independence.

Thriller is also interchangeably referred to as suspense. This genre also is often a big part of the Mystery, Crime, and Horror genres. Thriller fiction usually centers on a protagonist's desperate struggle for self-preservation or survival rather than a quest to rescue others. This genre is infused with rapid pacing and an abundance of action. Thrillers are renowned for their abundance of gripping cliffhangers. These stories are crafted to bring out emotions of curiosity, apprehension, suspense, dread, anxiety, and tension.

Popular Thriller and Suspense Subgenres

Psychological Thriller: These novels delve deep into the human psyche, exploring the psychological aspects of suspense and tension.
Legal Thriller: Set in the legal world, these stories often involve lawyers, courtroom drama, and legal conflicts.
Political Thriller: These thrillers revolve around political conspiracies, power struggles, and government intrigue.
Espionage/ Spy Thriller: Focused on espionage and espionage agents, these stories feature covert operations, international intrigue, and spies in action.
Mystery Thriller: Combining elements of mystery and suspense, these novels involve solving complex puzzles and uncovering hidden truths.
Medical Thriller: These thrillers are set in the medical field, often involving medical professionals dealing with life-and-death situations and medical mysteries.
Techno-Thriller: Centered on technology and its potential dangers, these stories often explore cybersecurity, hacking, and futuristic technology.
Conspiracy Thriller: These novels involve intricate conspiracies, cover-ups, and protagonists trying to unravel hidden plots.
Supernatural Thriller: Combining elements of the supernatural with suspense, these stories often feature paranormal phenomena and eerie mysteries.
Historical Thriller: Set in the past, these thrillers incorporate historical events, settings, and mysteries.
Domestic Thriller: These stories revolve around suspenseful events happening within a family or household, often exploring secrets and hidden dangers.
Serial Killer Thriller: Focused on the pursuit of serial killers, these novels involve intense investigations and cat-and-mouse games between law enforcement and killers.
Military Thriller: These thrillers are set in military environments and often involve military operations, special forces, and high-stakes combat.
Heist Thriller: Centered on elaborate heists and thefts, these stories involve intricate planning and high-risk criminal activities.
Technological Thriller: Exploring the potential dangers of technology, these novels often involve cyber threats, artificial intelligence, and futuristic scenarios.
Adventure Thriller: These thrillers combine elements of adventure with suspense, often featuring protagonists on thrilling quests or expeditions.
Financial Thriller: Set in the world of finance, these stories involve financial crimes, corporate intrigue, and high-stakes financial dealings.
Art and Artifact Thriller: These novels revolve around the theft, recovery, or pursuit of valuable artworks or historical artifacts.
Environmental Thriller: Focused on environmental issues and disasters, these stories often involve ecological threats and the race to prevent or mitigate them.
Survival Thriller: These thrillers feature characters facing extreme survival situations, often in remote or hostile environments.
Disaster Thriller: These novels focus on catastrophic events such as natural disasters, pandemics, or apocalyptic scenarios, exploring the survival and response efforts.
Action Thriller: Infused with high-octane action sequences, these stories involve intense physical confrontations, chases, and adrenaline-pumping situations.
Religious Thriller: Often blending elements of religion and the supernatural, these thrillers delve into religious mysteries, artifacts, or conflicts.
Forensic Thriller: Centered around forensic experts, these novels involve the scientific investigation of crimes, often featuring detailed analysis and crime-solving techniques.

The horror genre aspires to evoke fear, dread, and spine-tingling unease in its readers. The Horror genre is characterized by stories that delve into the darkest corners of human imagination, often featuring supernatural entities, evil forces, monsters, and killers. Within this genre, authors skillfully craft tales of suspense, terror, and psychological torment, inviting readers to confront their deepest fears. Horror novels explore the unknown, delving into themes of mortality, the supernatural, and the human capacity for cruelty and human resilience in the face of terrifying circumstances. This genre taps into primal fears and keeps readers on the edge of their seats, leaving a memorable mark on readers long after finishing reading the story.

Popular Horror Subgenres

Supernatural Horror: Featuring supernatural elements like ghosts, demons, and otherworldly entities, these stories often explore the unknown and the unexplainable.
Psychological Horror: Centered on the human psyche, these narratives delve into the darkest recesses of the mind, often blurring the line between reality and madness.
Gothic Horror: Rooted in Gothic literature, these stories are characterized by gloomy settings, eerie atmospheres, and themes of decay and ancestral curses.
Body Horror: These narratives focus on grotesque and disturbing transformations of the human body, often involving mutations, disease, or mutilation.
Survival Horror: Typically set in isolated or dangerous environments, these stories follow characters as they struggle to survive against horrifying threats.
Lovecraftian Horror: Inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, these stories often feature cosmic horror, eldritch creatures, and the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast, malevolent forces.
Monster Horror: Centered on monstrous creatures, these narratives feature creatures like vampires, werewolves, zombies, and other terrifying beings.
Haunted House Horror: These stories revolve around malevolent spirits or entities haunting a specific location, often leading to psychological torment for the inhabitants.
Found Footage Horror: Presented as if filmed by the characters themselves, these stories provide a sense of realism and immediacy, often involving supernatural or paranormal encounters.
Folk Horror: Rooted in folklore and rural settings, these stories explore ancient and pagan rituals, often revealing hidden horrors within secluded communities.
Cosmic Horror: Expanding upon Lovecraftian themes, cosmic horror delves into the insignificance of humanity in a vast and uncaring universe, often featuring incomprehensible cosmic entities.
Serial Killer Horror: Focused on the pursuit of serial killers, these narratives delve into the psychological and forensic aspects of crime, often involving intense cat-and-mouse games.
Body Snatcher Horror: These stories often feature the invasion or replacement of human bodies by alien or parasitic entities, leading to paranoia and mistrust.
J-Horror and K-Horror: Originating from Japan (J-Horror) and Korea (K-Horror), these subgenres are known for their unique cultural elements and terrifying ghosts or supernatural beings.
Childhood Horror: Centered on the fears and vulnerabilities of children, these stories often involve sinister imaginary friends, monsters under the bed, and malevolent adults.
Viral Outbreak Horror: These narratives explore the horrors of pandemics, viral outbreaks, and the collapse of society in the face of a deadly contagion.
Cannibal Horror: Featuring cannibalistic beings or communities, these stories delve into the gruesome and taboo aspects of human consumption.
Technology Horror: Centered on the dark side of technology, these stories often involve malevolent artificial intelligence, surveillance, and the consequences of modern inventions.
Time Travel Horror: Combining time travel with horror, these narratives often involve characters facing terrifying consequences as they manipulate the fabric of time.
Apocalyptic Horror: Set in post-apocalyptic worlds, these stories explore the horrors of societal collapse, survival, and the supernatural or monstrous threats that emerge.
Slasher Horror: These stories typically feature a relentless, often masked, killer who stalks and brutally murders victims, often with a focus on gore and violence.
Quiet Horror: Focused on subtlety and psychological dread, these narratives create an atmosphere of unease and fear through understated and eerie elements.
Creepy Kids: Featuring children or young characters as the source of horror, these stories explore the unsettling and supernatural aspects of childhood innocence turned malevolent.
Historical Horror: Set in the past, these stories blend historical settings with horror elements, exploring the dark and eerie aspects of history.
Science-Fiction Horror: Merging science fiction with horror, these narratives often involve futuristic technology, extraterrestrial threats, or scientific experiments gone awry.
Dark Fantasy Horror: Combining dark fantasy with horror, these stories often feature supernatural creatures, magic, and eerie worlds filled with danger.
Paranormal Horror: Centered on paranormal phenomena such as ghosts, poltergeists, and hauntings, these narratives often involve investigations into the supernatural.

The Mystery often has lots of suspense, intrigue, and the quest for answers. These stories often revolve around a perplexing puzzle, a crime to be solved, or a hidden truth waiting to be uncovered. At the heart of a mystery novel is the process of investigation, as detectives, amateur sleuths, or even ordinary individuals use their wits and deductive skills to unravel the enigma. Readers are drawn into a world of suspense, where secrets lurk behind every corner, and unexpected twists keep them guessing until the very end. Whether it's a classic "whodunit" or a psychological thriller, the Mystery genre offers an enticing journey into the depths of human curiosity and the thrill of solving the unknown.

Popular Mystery Subgenres

Cozy Mystery: These mysteries often feature amateur sleuths in small, close-knit communities, and they typically have a lighthearted tone with minimal violence and gore.
Police Procedural: Focused on the detailed, realistic procedures of law enforcement, these mysteries follow detectives as they investigate crimes, often highlighting the teamwork and forensic aspects of solving cases.
Hard-Boiled Mystery: Characterized by tough, gritty protagonists, hard-boiled mysteries often involve complex, morally ambiguous cases and a dark, urban setting.
Historical Mystery: Set in the past, these mysteries blend historical settings with crime-solving elements, offering readers a glimpse into bygone eras.
Amateur Sleuth: These mysteries feature non-professional detectives, such as journalists, teachers, or librarians, who use their unique skills to solve crimes.
Legal Thriller: Often revolving around legal proceedings, these mysteries involve lawyers, prosecutors, or defense attorneys who uncover dark secrets and navigate the justice system.
Medical Mystery: These mysteries typically involve medical professionals, like doctors or forensic pathologists, solving intricate medical or scientific puzzles.
Culinary Mystery: Combining mystery with the world of food and cooking, these stories often feature amateur chefs or bakers solving crimes while whipping up delicious dishes.
Espionage and Spy Mystery: These mysteries delve into the world of espionage, featuring spies and secret agents navigating treacherous international landscapes.
Psychological Thriller: Characterized by psychological tension and mind games, these mysteries often explore the complexities of the human mind and the blurred lines between reality and perception.
Paranormal Mystery: Combining elements of the supernatural with crime-solving, these mysteries involve ghosts, psychics, or other paranormal elements.
Locked-Room Mystery: These puzzles involve a seemingly impossible crime committed in a closed or confined space, challenging the detective to uncover the truth.
Amish Mystery: Set in Amish communities, these mysteries combine the unique aspects of Amish culture with intriguing crimes to solve.
Political Mystery: Centered on political intrigue, these mysteries often involve politicians, government conspiracies, and the power struggles within political arenas.
Humorous Mystery: Infused with humor and wit, these mysteries offer a lighthearted take on crime-solving, often featuring quirky characters and comedic situations.
International Mystery: These mysteries take readers on a globetrotting adventure, with investigations spanning multiple countries and cultures.
Art Mystery: Often involving stolen art, forgeries, or mysteries within the art world, these stories combine intrigue with artistic pursuits.
Travel Mystery: These mysteries follow characters on journeys or vacations, where they become embroiled in unexpected crime-solving adventures.
Serial Killer Thriller: Focused on the pursuit of serial killers, these mysteries delve into the psychology of both the criminal and the investigator.
Technological Mystery: These mysteries explore the world of technology, often involving hacking, cybercrime, or the dark side of the digital age.
Caper: Caper mysteries typically involve heists, thefts, or elaborate schemes, with a focus on planning and executing a high-stakes crime.
Howdunit: In these mysteries, the emphasis is on unraveling the method or mechanics behind a crime, challenging readers to solve the puzzle of "how it was done."
Noir: Noir mysteries have a dark, gritty, and often morally ambiguous tone, with a focus on flawed protagonists navigating a world filled with crime, corruption, and moral decay.
Detective Fiction: Characterized by the central role of a professional detective or investigator, these mysteries often focus on their deductive skills and methodical approach to solving crimes.

Action & Adventure

The Action and Adventure genre takes readers onto heart-pounding journeys filled with excitement, danger, and heroic quests. These stories often feature courageous protagonists who embark on epic adventures, facing formidable challenges, adversaries, and the unknown. Whether it's treasure hunters exploring remote jungles, spies navigating international conspiracies, or heroes battling mythical beasts, the genre's hallmark is its relentless pace, adrenaline-fueled sequences, and moments of high-stakes conflict. Action and Adventure novels transport readers to exotic locales, ancient ruins, and distant galaxies, offering an exhilarating escape into worlds of daring escapades and unforgettable quests.

Popular Subgenres of Action & Adventure

Espionage/ Spy: Featuring spies and intelligence operatives in high-stakes missions.
Military: Focused on military operations and combat situations.
Survival: Centered on characters trying to survive in extreme conditions.
Treasure Hunting/ Archaeological: Involving quests for hidden treasures and historical mysteries.
Legal: Combining legal drama with action-packed elements.
Techno: Incorporating advanced technology and scientific concepts.
Historical: Set in specific historical periods with adventurous plots.
Pirate: Set during the age of piracy, often featuring swashbuckling sailors.
Spy-Fi: Blending espionage with futuristic technology.
Political: Centered on political conspiracies, power struggles, and government intrigue.
Heist/Caper: Involving meticulously planned thefts or criminal enterprises.
Adventure Comedy: Combining action, adventure, and humor for a lighthearted reading experience.
Superhero: Featuring characters with extraordinary abilities and heroic feats.
Western Adventure: Transporting readers to the American Old West with cowboys and outlaws.
Environmental: Addressing ecological and environmental issues.
Pulp: Harkening back to the classic pulp fiction era with action-packed narratives.
Quest: Involving characters on epic journeys or quests for a specific goal.
Space Adventure: Set in outer space and often featuring space exploration or spacefaring characters.
Dinosaur Adventure: Incorporating prehistoric creatures and adventurous situations.
Sword and Sorcery: Combining action and adventure with elements of fantasy and magic.
Exploration Adventure: Featuring characters embarking on journeys of discovery to uncharted lands or hidden realms.
Sea Adventure: Set primarily on the high seas, often involving pirates, sailors, or maritime expeditions.
Jungle Adventure: Taking place in dense, unexplored jungles with protagonists facing natural and supernatural challenges.
Conspiracy: Involving intricate plots and conspiracies, often with characters uncovering dark secrets.
Artifact Quest: Revolving around quests to find and protect powerful or mystical artifacts.
Spy/Secret Agent: Focusing on the covert operations and espionage missions of secret agents.
Rescue Mission: Centered on characters attempting daring rescues of hostages, prisoners, or captured allies.
Wild West: Set in the American frontier during the 19th century, featuring cowboys, outlaws, and frontier justice.
Desert Adventure: Taking place in arid desert landscapes, often with survival as a central theme.
Underwater Adventure: Featuring underwater exploration, submarines, or adventures in the depths of the ocean.
Island Adventure: Set on remote islands, often with characters facing isolation and danger.
Historical Naval: Focusing on naval battles, exploration, and adventures during specific historical periods.
Steampunk Adventure: Combining action and adventure with the aesthetics and technology of the steampunk genre.
Biopunk Adventure: Exploring biological and genetic advancements in an action-packed context.
Space Opera: Offering epic, sweeping space adventures with grand conflicts and cosmic settings.
Time Travel Adventure: Involving time travel as a central plot element, with characters navigating different eras.
Robot/Android Adventure: Featuring robotic or android characters in action-packed narratives.
Post-Apocalyptic Adventure: Set in a world devastated by a catastrophic event, often with characters struggling to survive.
Cyberpunk Adventure: Combining high-tech, futuristic settings with action and intrigue.
Mythical Creature Adventure: Featuring mythical creatures like dragons, monsters, or legendary beasts.

The Science Fiction genre is a boundless realm of imagination that propels readers into the uncharted territories of the future, the cosmos, and the limitless possibilities of science and technology. These narratives explore speculative concepts, advanced civilizations, and futuristic landscapes, often delving into the profound impact of scientific advancements on society, morality, and human existence. From space exploration to time travel, artificial intelligence to extraterrestrial encounters, Science Fiction offers a captivating blend of scientific accuracy and creative vision. It challenges readers to contemplate the "what ifs" of the universe, serving as a lens through which we can reflect on the potential consequences, ethical dilemmas, and profound wonders of our ever-evolving world.

Popular Science Fiction Subgenres

Space Opera: Epic tales set in the vastness of space, often featuring complex interstellar politics and grand adventures.
Cyberpunk: Focusing on futuristic, high-tech, and dystopian settings, with an emphasis on computer technology and cybernetics.
Hard Science Fiction: Grounded in real scientific principles and rigorous accuracy, exploring scientific concepts and possibilities.
Dystopian: Set in bleak future societies characterized by oppressive governments, social decay, or environmental collapse.
Post-Apocalyptic: Taking place after a catastrophic event, exploring the challenges of survival and rebuilding.
Time Travel: Involving time travel as a central plot element, with characters navigating different time periods.
Alternate History: Reimagining historical events with speculative changes, creating new worlds or timelines.
Steampunk: Blending Victorian-era aesthetics with advanced steam-powered technology and alternate history.
Biopunk: Exploring biological and genetic advancements in a futuristic context, often involving genetic engineering.
Space Exploration: Focused on the exploration of outer space, new planets, and the challenges of deep space travel.
Military Science Fiction: Centered on military operations in futuristic settings, often involving space warfare.
Alien Contact: Exploring interactions with extraterrestrial life forms and the consequences of such encounters.
Robot/AI Science Fiction: Featuring artificial intelligence, robots, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding advanced technology.
Political Science Fiction: Dealing with political and social issues within futuristic or alternate societies.
Social Science Fiction: Examining the impact of societal changes, often through speculative social experiments.
Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi): Addressing the consequences of climate change and environmental issues in the future.
Apocalyptic Science Fiction: Depicting the lead-up to an apocalyptic event or the immediate aftermath.
Solarpunk: Offering an optimistic vision of the future with sustainable technology and ecological themes.
Nanopunk: Exploring the implications of nanotechnology and microscopic machines in society.
First Contact: Focused on initial encounters with alien civilizations and the challenges of communication.
Space Western: Merging the elements of space travel with the frontier spirit of the Wild West.
Steampunk Space: Combining the steampunk aesthetic with spacefaring adventures.
Genetic Engineering: Exploring the ethical and scientific consequences of manipulating DNA.
Nano-Tech Sci-Fi: Focusing on the world of nanotechnology and its impact on society.
Mars Colonization: Centered on the colonization and terraforming of the planet Mars.
Galactic Empire: Featuring vast empires spanning multiple star systems and the power struggles within.
Parallel Universes: Involving the exploration of alternate realities and parallel dimensions.
Space Pirates: Adventure tales of swashbuckling pirates in the depths of space.
Solar System Exploration: Focused on the exploration of our own solar system, including distant planets and moons.
Future War: Depicting large-scale conflicts in futuristic settings, often with advanced weaponry.
Utopian Science Fiction: Offering a positive vision of the future with advanced technology and societal harmony.
Mind and Consciousness: Exploring the nature of consciousness, mind uploading, and digital existence.
Cybernetic Enhancements: Delving into the integration of technology with the human body and its implications.
Nuclear Apocalypse: Centered on the aftermath of nuclear war and its effects on society.
Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi): Addressing ecological and climate-related challenges in a speculative future.
Space Horror: Combining elements of science fiction with horror themes and extraterrestrial threats.
Solar Punk: Focusing on environmentally conscious, sustainable futures with green technology.
Transhumanism: Exploring the evolution of humanity through advanced technology and modification.
Colonization and Terraforming: Depicting the challenges of settling and transforming alien worlds.
Alternate Physics: Speculating on alternative laws of physics or dimensions that affect the story's reality.

The Fantasy genre is a mesmerizing realm of storytelling that transports readers to enchanting worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. These narratives transcend the boundaries of reality, inviting readers to journey through realms where the laws of nature are replaced by the extraordinary. From sword-wielding heroes battling ancient evils to young wizards discovering their hidden powers, Fantasy weaves tales of wonder and adventure where imagination knows no bounds. At its heart, this genre sparks the imagination, inviting readers to believe in the extraordinary and explore the realms of the impossible, making it a timeless and enchanting genre beloved by readers of all ages.

Popular Subgenres of Fantasy

High Fantasy (Epic Fantasy): Set in entirely fictional worlds with complex mythologies, multiple races, and grand adventures.
Low Fantasy: Integrates fantastical elements into our own world, often with hidden magical societies or beings.
Urban Fantasy: Combines fantasy elements with an urban, contemporary setting, often involving supernatural detective or urban wizard themes.
Sword and Sorcery: Focuses on action-packed adventures with warrior protagonists, often in gritty and dangerous settings.
Steampunk Fantasy: Blends fantasy with 19th-century steam-powered technology, often set in alternative historical periods.
Portal Fantasy: Involves characters traveling to fantastical realms through portals or gateways.
Magical Realism: Incorporates magical or fantastical elements into a realistic, everyday world, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
Fairy Tale Retellings: Reimagines classic fairy tales with new twists, perspectives, or modern sensibilities.
Historical Fantasy: Combines historical settings or periods with magical elements, offering an alternative view of history.
Dark Fantasy: Features darker, more sinister themes, often involving morally ambiguous characters or grim worlds.
Heroic Fantasy: Centers around heroic quests, typically with a chosen one or hero's journey narrative.
Mythological Fantasy: Draws inspiration from world mythology, featuring gods, legends, and mythical creatures.
Grimdark Fantasy: Emphasizes realism, morally complex characters, and a bleak or gritty tone.
Comedic Fantasy: Infuses humor and satire into fantastical adventures and magical worlds.
Dragon Fantasy: Highlights dragons as central elements, often exploring their roles in the world.
Military Fantasy: Involves warfare and battles in fantastical settings, with a focus on military strategy.
Fairytale Fantasy: Adapts fairy tales into longer, more complex narratives, exploring their worlds and characters.
Arthurian Fantasy: Revolves around the legends of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, and the Arthurian mythos.
Elemental Magic: Focuses on magic tied to the elements (earth, air, fire, water), with characters harnessing elemental powers.
Wuxia Fantasy: Influenced by Chinese martial arts literature, featuring martial artists with supernatural abilities.
Alien Fantasy: Features otherworldly creatures and beings, often involving interstellar adventures and unique extraterrestrial worlds.
Time Travel Fantasy: Incorporates time travel as a central theme, allowing characters to explore different eras or timelines.
Mythic Fantasy: Draws inspiration from ancient myths and legends, reimagining them with fresh perspectives.
Quest Fantasy: Focuses on epic quests, journeys, or adventures undertaken by characters to achieve a significant goal.
Folklore Fantasy: Weaves elements from regional folklore and legends into the story, reflecting cultural traditions.
Alternate History Fantasy: Explores alternative historical events and outcomes influenced by magical or fantastical elements.
Cultural Fantasy: Emphasizes the richness of various cultures and their mythologies, often featuring diverse characters and settings.
Animal Fantasy: Features anthropomorphic animals as main characters in fantastical adventures.
Stealth Fantasy: Blends elements of espionage, spies, or covert operations with fantasy settings and magic.
Crossover Fantasy: Merges elements from multiple subgenres, creating unique and unexpected combinations.

The Paranormal genre ventures into the mysterious and the unexplained, where the supernatural takes center stage in stories that challenge our perception of reality. These narratives delve into the world of ghosts, spirits, vampires, werewolves, psychics, and otherworldly phenomena, blurring the lines between the natural and the supernatural. Paranormal fiction taps into our fascination with the unknown and our desire to explore the hidden dimensions of existence, often weaving tales of suspense, romance, and intrigue that unfold against a backdrop of eerie and enigmatic forces. Whether it's a haunted house, a cursed artifact, or individuals with extraordinary abilities, this genre invites readers to embrace the eerie and the extraordinary, embarking on journeys into the realms of the unexplained.

Popular Subgenres of the Paranormal Genre

Urban Fantasy: Set in contemporary, often urban settings, where paranormal elements like magic and supernatural creatures coexist with the modern world.
Paranormal Romance: Combines paranormal elements with romantic storylines, often featuring relationships between humans and supernatural beings like vampires, werewolves, or witches.
Supernatural Mystery: Blends elements of mystery and paranormal, with characters solving supernatural or paranormal cases, often involving ghosts, spirits, or otherworldly phenomena.
Ghost Stories: Focuses on encounters with ghosts and spirits, exploring themes of hauntings, possessions, and the afterlife.
Psychic Detectives: Features protagonists with psychic abilities, such as clairvoyance or telepathy, who use their powers to solve crimes or mysteries.
Time-Travel Paranormal: Involves time-traveling characters who navigate the past, present, or future while encountering paranormal elements.
Witches and Wicca: Revolves around witches, wizards, or practitioners of Wicca, often delving into magical rituals, spells, and witchcraft.
Mediumship: Focuses on characters with the ability to communicate with the dead, often helping spirits resolve unfinished business.
Angel and Demon Paranormal: Explores the realms of angels and demons, their interactions with humans, and the eternal battle between good and evil.
Haunted Houses: Centers around haunted or cursed locations, with characters uncovering the dark history and supernatural occurrences within them.
Psychic Powers: Features characters with various psychic abilities, such as telekinesis, precognition, or mind-reading, and how these powers affect their lives.
Paranormal Historical: Sets paranormal events or creatures within historical time periods, blending history with the supernatural.
Changeling and Fairy Lore: Draws inspiration from folklore and mythology, often involving changelings, fairies, and other mythical creatures.
Alien Abduction: Explores the theme of extraterrestrial encounters, UFOs, and alien abductions.
Poltergeist Activity: Focuses on violent and mischievous supernatural entities that create chaos and havoc in the lives of characters.
Cursed Objects: Involves cursed or haunted objects that bring misfortune to those who possess them.
Cryptids and Mythical Beasts: Features encounters with mysterious creatures like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, or mythical beasts from various cultures.
Spectral Horror: Emphasizes the terrifying and horrifying aspects of encounters with spirits and other spectral entities.
Occult Mysteries: Involves characters delving into the world of occultism, magic, and hidden knowledge, often uncovering ancient and forbidden secrets.
Psychological Paranormal: Focuses on the psychological effects of paranormal experiences, blurring the line between reality and the supernatural.
Cursed Bloodlines: Explores the idea of generational curses or families with supernatural abilities or afflictions passed down through bloodlines.
Zombie Apocalypse: Centers on zombie outbreaks and the struggle for survival in a world overrun by the undead.
Shapeshifters: Features characters who can transform into animals or other forms, often exploring themes of identity and duality.
Alien Invasions: Explores the concept of Earth being invaded or visited by extraterrestrial civilizations with varying intentions.
Lovecraftian Horror: Draws inspiration from H.P. Lovecraft's cosmic horror, focusing on the insignificance of humanity in the face of ancient and incomprehensible cosmic entities.
Wraiths and Revenants: Involves vengeful spirits or the return of the dead seeking retribution or unfinished business.
Parallel Worlds: Characters navigate parallel dimensions or alternate realities with different rules and supernatural phenomena.
Elemental Magic: Features characters with control over the elements, such as fire, water, earth, or air, often tied to a larger magical system.
Sorcery and Dark Arts: Explores characters practicing dark magic, forbidden rituals, and the consequences of delving into the occult.
Exorcism and Possession: Centers on the battle against demonic possession and the efforts to exorcise malevolent spirits.

The Western genre is an evocative and rugged landscape of storytelling that conjures images of vast open plains, dusty trails, and the frontier spirit of the American West. These narratives transport readers to a bygone era when the untamed wilderness was the backdrop for the adventures of cowboys, outlaws, and pioneers. The Western genre embodies themes of courage, justice, and the pursuit of a better life, often pitting characters against the harsh forces of nature and the moral complexities of a lawless frontier. With iconic shootouts, sprawling landscapes, and characters defined by their grit and determination, Westerns capture the essence of a pivotal period in history, showcasing the enduring allure of the Wild West's untamed spirit.

Average Word Count for Western: 70,000 to 100,000 words

Dystopian Fiction

The Dystopian genre is a thought-provoking and often chilling exploration of bleak, future worlds where societal structures have crumbled, and humanity faces the consequences of its actions. These narratives present readers with harrowing visions of oppressive governments, environmental catastrophes, and the dire consequences of unchecked technological advancements. Dystopian fiction serves as a cautionary mirror to our own world, challenging us to contemplate the potential consequences of our choices and the fragility of the systems that govern society.

The Utopian Fiction genre offers readers a glimpse into idealized worlds where human society has achieved perfection, harmony, and an idyllic existence. These narratives present utopian visions where problems such as inequality, scarcity, and conflict have been resolved through innovation, social order, or advanced technology. Utopian fiction challenges us to envision a society where humanity's potential for good is realized, emphasizing values like peace, equality, and justice. While these utopian worlds may seem like paradises, they often hold hidden complexities and philosophical questions about the price of perfection and the challenges of maintaining utopian ideals. In a world often marked by imperfections and challenges, Utopian Fiction offers a compelling exploration of the possibilities for a better, more harmonious future.

The Chick Lit genre is a vibrant and relatable realm of literature that predominantly centers on the lives, experiences, and journeys of contemporary women. These novels often delve into the complexities of modern relationships, career aspirations, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment, all infused with wit, humor, and a touch of romance. Chick Lit provides a platform for readers to connect with multifaceted female protagonists who face relatable challenges, from navigating the highs and lows of love to the trials and tribulations of the workplace.

Christian fiction encompasses a diverse collection of literature that explores faith, spirituality, and Christian principles at its core. These novels often feature characters who grapple with questions of belief, morality, and personal redemption, and they are set within a framework of Christian values and themes. While some Christian fiction is overtly religious, delving into biblical narratives and theological discussions, others take a more subtle approach, weaving Christian principles into compelling stories that can resonate with readers of various faith backgrounds. These novels offer a unique opportunity for readers to explore complex human experiences through the lens of faith, making the Christian genre a source of inspiration, comfort, and reflection for many.

Inspirational Fiction: These novels often focus on characters facing challenges and finding strength and hope through their faith.
Amish Fiction: Set in Amish communities, these stories explore the traditions, values, and struggles of Amish life.
Biblical Fiction: These novels bring to life stories and characters from the Bible, offering imaginative retellings and interpretations.
Christian Romance: Combining Christian themes with romance, these books emphasize the importance of faith in relationships.
Christian Suspense: These books incorporate elements of mystery and suspense, often featuring protagonists who must rely on their faith to solve mysteries or face danger.
Christian Historical Fiction: Set in various historical periods, these novels explore how faith played a role in the lives of people in the past.
Christian Science Fiction and Fantasy: These genres blend Christian themes with speculative elements, exploring faith in otherworldly settings.
Christian Women's Fiction: These novels often center around the lives of women who navigate challenges, relationships, and personal growth while relying on their Christian faith.
Christian Mystery: Combining elements of mystery and suspense with Christian themes, these books feature detectives or amateur sleuths who solve mysteries with faith-based insights.
Christian Fantasy Adventure: These books blend Christian principles with fantastical adventures, featuring characters who embark on epic quests in imaginative worlds while grappling with questions of faith and morality.
Christian Western: Set in the American Old West, these stories explore the challenges and adventures of pioneers and settlers who uphold Christian values in a rugged frontier.
Christian Historical Romance: Combining historical settings with romance, these novels focus on the love stories of characters who draw strength from their Christian faith.
Christian Contemporary Fiction: These stories are set in the present day and address modern issues and challenges while incorporating Christian themes and values.
Christian Inspirational Romance: These books emphasize romantic relationships while also delivering inspirational messages about faith, hope, and love.
Christian Cozy Mystery: These cozy mysteries feature amateur sleuths in small communities who use their faith and moral compass to solve crimes in a gentle and comforting manner.

Speculative fiction is a genre that delves into imaginative storytelling, often in alternate or futuristic settings, where authors explore innovative concepts, technologies, or fantastical elements beyond our known reality. This genre encourages creative "what if" scenarios, inviting readers to ponder their impact on society and the human condition, blurring the lines between the possible and impossible. Its roots trace back to ancient Greece when playwrights like Euripides explored alternate truths. In essence, speculative fiction encompasses fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and superhero narratives, diverging from "realistic fiction" through elements that defy our reality. It's a genre of boundless possibilities and alternative versions of the world.

The Magic Realism genre is a captivating fusion of the every day and the extraordinary, where the fantastical seamlessly melds with the mundane. In these narratives, authors weave enchanting tales set in the real world but infused with subtle or surreal elements of magic, mysticism, or the supernatural. Magic Realism invites readers to explore the ordinary lives of its characters while navigating the enigmatic and the unexplainable. This genre blurs the boundaries between reality and fantasy, offering a lens through which to view the world in a fresh, mystical light. Rooted in cultural traditions and folklore, Magic Realism serves as a rich tapestry where the mystical and the ordinary coexist , often leading to profound insights into the human condition and the mysteries of existence.

LGBTQ+ Fiction is a diverse and inclusive genre that gives voice to the experiences, identities, and stories of the LGBTQ+ community. These narratives explore the complexities of love, identity, and acceptance, shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and diverse lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. Any book featuring a protagonist who is part of the LGBTQ+ community falls into this genre.

Satire Fiction is a sharp and often humorous genre that employs wit, irony, and sarcasm to critique and lampoon various aspects of society, politics, or human behavior. These narratives use clever wordplay and exaggerated characters to expose the flaws and absurdities of the world in which we live. Satire serves as a powerful tool for social commentary, challenging norms, hypocrisy, and injustice through its biting humor and clever insights. Whether it's a scathing takedown of political institutions, a witty examination of societal conventions, or a playful jab at human foibles, Satire Fiction invites readers to laugh, reflect, and question the status quo, making it a genre that wields humor as a potent instrument of change and enlightenment.

Homespun Christmas: A Small Town Christian Romance Novella

Holiday Fiction is a heartwarming and festive genre that captures the spirit of various celebrations and special occasions throughout the year. These stories revolve around themes of love, family, friendship, and the magic of holidays, offering readers a cozy escape into the enchanting world of seasonal festivities. Whether it's Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any other cherished holiday, this genre invites readers to immerse themselves in the traditions, rituals, and joyous moments that define these special times. Holiday Fiction often evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth, making it a beloved genre that allows readers to relive the magic of their favorite holidays year-round and experience the enchantment of new celebrations through the eyes of relatable characters.

Popular Holiday Fiction Subgenres

Christmas Fiction: Stories set during the Christmas season, often focusing on themes of love, family, and the spirit of giving.
Thanksgiving Fiction: Narratives centered around Thanksgiving celebrations, emphasizing gratitude, togetherness, and the joys of sharing a meal.
Halloween Fiction: Spooky and supernatural tales set during the Halloween season, featuring witches, ghosts, and eerie occurrences.
Valentine's Day Fiction: Romantic stories set on Valentine's Day, exploring themes of love, romance, and relationships.
Easter Fiction: Narratives that capture the spirit of Easter, often featuring themes of rebirth, faith, and hope.
New Year's Fiction: Stories set on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, focusing on fresh starts, resolutions, and new beginnings.
Hanukkah Fiction: Stories centered around the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, highlighting traditions, family, and the miracle of the menorah.
Diwali Fiction: Narratives set during the Hindu festival of Diwali, celebrating light, triumph over darkness, and cultural traditions.
Kwanzaa Fiction: Stories that explore the principles and celebrations of the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa.
Fourth of July Fiction: Tales set on Independence Day, often featuring patriotic themes, fireworks, and celebrations of freedom.
St. Patrick's Day Fiction: Stories set during St. Patrick's Day, often featuring Irish culture, folklore, and celebrations.
Labor Day Fiction: Narratives set on Labor Day, exploring themes of work, labor movements, and the end of summer.
Columbus Day Fiction: Stories centered around Columbus Day, often delving into historical events, exploration, and discovery.
Mardi Gras Fiction: Tales set during the lively festivities of Mardi Gras, featuring parades, masks, and revelry.
Back to School Fiction: Stories that revolve around the back-to-school season, capturing the excitement and challenges of a new academic year.
Arbor Day Fiction: Narratives that celebrate Arbor Day, highlighting environmental conservation and the importance of trees.
Earth Day Fiction: Stories set on Earth Day, often focusing on environmental awareness, conservation efforts, and sustainable living.
National Day Fiction: Narratives set on various national holidays around the world, exploring cultural traditions and heritage.
Harvest Festival Fiction: Tales centered around harvest festivals, showcasing agricultural abundance and community celebrations.
Veterans Day Fiction: Stories that honor and commemorate Veterans Day, often focusing on themes of service, sacrifice, and gratitude.

The Graphic Novel genre is a dynamic and visually captivating form of storytelling that blends the narrative power of literature with the artistic prowess of illustration. These narratives unfold through a combination of vivid artwork and compelling text, offering readers a unique and immersive reading experience. Graphic novels cover a diverse range of themes and genres, from superheroes and fantasy epics to autobiographical reflections and historical dramas. They provide a platform for both established and emerging artists and writers to push the boundaries of storytelling, utilizing the synergy of visual and textual elements to convey intricate plots, rich character development, and thought-provoking themes. Graphic novels have gained widespread recognition and respect in the literary world, appealing to readers of all ages and backgrounds while contributing to the evolution of storytelling as a whole.

Short Stories are concise and impactful narratives that offer a complete and compelling tale within a limited word count. This genre excels in brevity, capturing readers' attention and emotions in a brief but powerful narrative arc. Short stories come in various forms, from literary fiction that delves into profound human experiences to genre-specific tales like mysteries, science fiction, or horror. They require skillful storytelling to develop characters, themes, and plotlines swiftly, often leaving readers with thought-provoking conclusions or open-ended possibilities. This genre allows writers to experiment with diverse styles and themes while offering readers a quick yet memorable journey into the world of storytelling.

Novellas occupy a unique space in the realm of storytelling, offering a captivating narrative that is longer and more intricate than a short story but more concise than a full-length novel. These works balance the art of brevity with the depth of character development and plot complexity. Novellas often explore themes, relationships, and journeys with a level of intimacy that allows readers to engage deeply with the story in a single sitting. This genre has the versatility to span various themes and genres, from literary fiction to romance, science fiction, and beyond. Novellas are celebrated for their ability to deliver a rich and impactful narrative experience in a compact form, making them a favored choice for both authors seeking to convey a story concisely and readers looking for a fulfilling but shorter literary adventure.

The Young Adult (YA) genre is a dynamic and diverse literary landscape dedicated to the experiences and challenges of adolescent readers. These novels delve into the emotional and transformative journey of teenagers as they navigate the complexities of identity, relationships, and self-discovery. YA books encompass a wide range of genres, from contemporary realism addressing real-world issues to fantasy and science fiction, offering imaginative adventures. What sets YA apart is its ability to authentically capture the voices, concerns, and aspirations of its young protagonists, resonating with readers facing similar life transitions. This genre has proven its enduring appeal, attracting readers of all ages who appreciate its relatable characters, relatable themes, and its capacity to inspire empathy and understanding among diverse audiences.

New Adult (NA) is a genre that bridges the transition between Young Adult and Adult fiction, focusing on the unique challenges and experiences of individuals in their late teens to early twenties. These narratives explore the complexities of emerging adulthood, from navigating higher education, career choices, and personal growth to forging relationships and gaining independence. NA novels often feature protagonists facing more mature themes, including romance, identity, and self-discovery, while addressing the evolving dynamics of friendships and family relationships. This genre resonates with readers who appreciate stories that capture the transformative journey from adolescence to adulthood, offering a relatable lens through which to examine the trials and triumphs of this pivotal life stage.

Middle Grade fiction, often abbreviated as MG, is a captivating genre tailored to the interests and developmental stages of readers aged approximately 8 to 12. These books offer engaging and age-appropriate narratives that cater to the evolving sensibilities of young readers while introducing them to a variety of themes, adventures, and relatable characters. MG fiction spans a wide range of genres, from contemporary and historical tales to fantasy, mystery, and more. What sets MG apart is its emphasis on the coming-of-age experiences, friendships, and the exploration of morality and values as young readers begin to form their own worldviews. This genre serves as a crucial stepping stone in a reader's literary journey, fostering a lifelong love of reading and an appreciation for storytelling.

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Children's Books encompass a delightful and diverse genre that caters to the youngest of readers, from infants to early teens. These books are thoughtfully crafted to engage, entertain, and educate young minds, fostering a lifelong love of reading. Children's literature spans a wide spectrum, from board books designed for the very young, featuring colorful illustrations and simple stories, to chapter books and middle-grade novels that introduce readers to more complex narratives and characters. The genre embraces imaginative tales, moral lessons, and diverse cultural perspectives, offering young readers a window into different worlds and experiences. With their enchanting illustrations and captivating narratives, children's books play an essential role in shaping creativity, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the magic of storytelling in the hearts of our youngest readers.

Women's Fiction is a compelling genre that delves into the multifaceted lives, experiences, and relationships of women. These narratives often explore themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the complexities of human connections. While not limited to female readers, Women's Fiction tends to focus on the emotional and psychological journeys of its female protagonists, offering a lens through which readers can relate to and empathize with the characters' challenges, triumphs, and aspirations. This genre spans a broad spectrum of themes, from family and friendships to love and career, providing a rich tapestry of stories that celebrate the resilience and strength of women in all their diverse roles and identities.

Nonfiction Book Genres

The Biography genre is a literary treasure trove that brings real-life stories to the forefront, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the lives, achievements, and trials of notable individuals. These narratives span a vast spectrum of subjects, from historical figures and political leaders to artists, scientists, athletes, and everyday people with extraordinary tales to tell. What sets biography apart is its commitment to meticulous research, ensuring accuracy and authenticity while weaving compelling narratives that capture the essence of its subjects. Biography books not only provide insight into the personal and professional journeys of their subjects but also shed light on the broader historical, cultural, and societal contexts that shaped their lives.

Historical Nonfiction is a captivating genre that serves as a window into the past, offering readers a meticulously researched and fact-based account of historical events, figures, and periods. These narratives are crafted with a commitment to accuracy and a dedication to unearthing the truths of history. Historical nonfiction spans a diverse range of topics, from biographies of influential figures to in-depth explorations of pivotal moments in time. Through the skillful weaving of archival records, eyewitness accounts, and thorough research, this genre breathes life into the past, allowing readers to witness the triumphs, struggles, and complexities of history in vivid detail. Historical nonfiction plays a pivotal role in preserving and sharing the rich tapestry of human experiences, offering an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts eager to uncover the secrets and lessons of bygone eras.

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The Self-help Genre is a powerful literary category devoted to personal growth, empowerment, and positive transformation. These books serve as guides, mentors, and sources of inspiration, offering practical advice, strategies, and wisdom to help individuals enhance their lives and achieve their goals. Self-help books encompass a wide spectrum of topics, from mental health and wellness to productivity, relationships, and spirituality. What distinguishes this genre is its commitment to fostering self-awareness and providing actionable steps for self-improvement. Authors draw upon their expertise, research, and often personal experiences to offer readers tools for overcoming obstacles, nurturing resilience, and embracing their fullest potential. Self-help literature serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that change is possible, and that each of us has the power to shape our destinies.

Most Popular Self-Help Subgenres

Personal Development: Books that focus on individual growth, self-awareness, and self-improvement.
Motivation and Inspiration: Titles designed to inspire and motivate readers to achieve their goals and aspirations.
Mental Health and Well-being: Books that address mental health challenges, offer coping strategies, and promote emotional well-being.
Relationships and Communication: Self-help books that explore topics like effective communication, building healthy relationships, and resolving conflicts.
Productivity and Time Management: Guides to enhance organizational skills, boost productivity, and manage time efficiently.
Spirituality and Mindfulness: Books that delve into spiritual practices, mindfulness, and finding inner peace.
Financial Success: Self-help literature on financial planning, wealth-building, and achieving financial freedom.
Health and Wellness: Titles that cover topics like fitness, nutrition, and holistic well-being.
Happiness and Positivity: Books that offer strategies for cultivating happiness, gratitude, and a positive mindset.
Creativity and Personal Fulfillment: Guides to unleash creativity, find purpose, and live a fulfilling life.
Stress Management: Books that provide techniques and strategies for managing stress and anxiety.
Motivational Memoirs: Memoirs of individuals who have overcome significant challenges and share their journey to inspire others.
Parenting and Family: Self-help books that offer advice and insights into effective parenting and family dynamics.
Career and Success: Guides to career advancement, professional development, and achieving success in the workplace.
Self-Compassion and Self-Love: Books that focus on building self-esteem, self-compassion, and fostering self-love.
Addiction and Recovery: Self-help literature for individuals dealing with addiction issues and seeking recovery.
Personal Finance and Debt Management: Guides on managing finances, reducing debt, and achieving financial stability.
Creativity and Innovation: Books that encourage creative thinking, innovation, and problem-solving.
Goal Setting and Achievement: Resources for setting and achieving personal and professional goals.
Emotional Intelligence: Books that explore emotional intelligence, empathy, and interpersonal skills.

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The Travel Genre is a literary passport to the world's wonders, cultures, and landscapes. These books transport readers to far-flung destinations, inviting them to embark on captivating journeys, whether real or imagined. Travel literature is a rich tapestry that encompasses a diverse range of works, from travelogues and memoirs detailing the author's adventures to guidebooks offering practical advice for travelers. At its heart, this genre serves as a bridge between cultures, fostering curiosity, understanding, and a profound sense of wanderlust. Travel books not only provide vivid descriptions of places but also explore the transformative power of exploration, reminding us of the vast and awe-inspiring beauty of our planet and the diverse people who call it home.

The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper

The True Crime Genre delves into the chilling and enigmatic world of real-life mysteries, investigations, and criminal acts. These books are a gripping exploration of actual crimes, criminals, and the relentless pursuit of justice. True crime narratives cover a wide spectrum of cases, from notorious historical crimes to contemporary mysteries, and they provide readers with an unfiltered look into the minds of both criminals and law enforcement. Whether recounting cold cases, unsolved mysteries, or the pursuit of justice, this genre offers a riveting glimpse into the darker aspects of human behavior and the tireless efforts to solve and understand these perplexing criminal puzzles.

The Parenting Book Genre within nonfiction is a valuable resource for individuals navigating the rewarding yet challenging journey of parenthood. These books offer guidance, insights, and expert advice on raising children, addressing the myriad of challenges parents may encounter. From newborn care to adolescent development, parenting books cover a broad spectrum of topics, providing practical strategies and emotional support for nurturing healthy, happy families. With a focus on evidence-based research, personal anecdotes, and diverse perspectives, parenting books empower caregivers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of child-rearing, fostering strong bonds and positive outcomes for both parents and children.

The Memoir and Autobiography Genre is a captivating literary realm where individuals share the intimate tapestries of their lives. These books offer deeply personal accounts, memories, and reflections, allowing authors to invite readers into their world. Memoirs provide windows into the human experience, from moments of triumph and resilience to vulnerability and growth. Autobiographies span the breadth of a person's life journey, chronicling their evolution, achievements, and challenges. Whether recounting tales of remarkable achievements, extraordinary adventures, or the everyday struggles and triumphs, this genre allows readers to connect with the shared threads of humanity that bind us all, and it often serves as a source of inspiration and insight into the lives of others.

Narrative Nonfiction

Narrative Nonfiction is a dynamic and compelling genre that weaves factual information into a riveting storytelling format. These books transform real-life events, people, and experiences into gripping narratives that captivate readers' imaginations while educating and enlightening. Narrative nonfiction transcends traditional dry reporting, employing literary techniques such as vivid descriptions, character development, and immersive storytelling to bring historical events, scientific discoveries, biographical accounts, and cultural phenomena to life. Whether illuminating untold stories from the past, demystifying complex subjects, or shedding light on contemporary issues, this genre offers a powerful fusion of storytelling and truth, proving that real-life narratives can be as enthralling as fiction.

The Mediterranean Dish: 120 Bold and Healthy Recipes You'll Make on Repeat: A Mediterranean Cookbook

The Cookbook Genre is a delectable fusion of culinary artistry and literary craftsmanship, offering readers a feast for the senses and the palate. These books are a treasure trove of recipes, culinary techniques, and inspiration, carefully curated by chefs, food enthusiasts, and culinary experts. Cookbooks are as diverse as the world's cuisines, ranging from classic family recipes and regional specialties to gourmet creations and dietary-focused offerings. With tantalizing photography and step-by-step instructions, they invite home cooks to embark on culinary adventures, explore new flavors, and savor the joys of preparing and sharing delicious meals. More than just instructional guides, cookbooks are culinary narratives, celebrating the cultural, historical, and personal stories behind each dish, making them a delightful genre that nourishes both body and soul.

The Religion and Spirituality Genre is a profound exploration of humanity's enduring quest for meaning, faith, and transcendence. Within this genre, readers encounter a rich tapestry of beliefs, rituals, and sacred texts from diverse religious traditions and spiritual philosophies. These books serve as guides to the inner landscapes of the soul, offering wisdom, solace, and guidance for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and a deeper connection to the divine. Whether delving into the teachings of established religions, exploring the mysticism of ancient traditions, or embarking on a personal spiritual journey, this genre is a sanctuary for introspection, moral contemplation, and the exploration of the profound questions that have shaped human existence throughout history.

The Philosophy Book Genre is a realm of profound contemplation and intellectual exploration, where ideas become the canvas upon which the mysteries of existence are painted. These books offer readers a portal into the timeless questions that have shaped human thought for centuries. They delve into the nature of reality, ethics, knowledge, and the very essence of human existence. From the philosophical treatises of great thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and Kant to contemporary works on existentialism, ethics, and metaphysics, this genre invites readers to grapple with the fundamental inquiries that challenge the boundaries of human understanding. Whether one seeks to explore the foundations of morality, the nature of consciousness, or the complexities of political philosophy, the Philosophy genre is a boundless landscape of intellectual discovery and discourse.

The Art and Photography Book Genre is a captivating realm where visual storytelling takes center stage. These books serve as windows into the world of artistic expression, allowing readers to explore the vast and diverse landscapes of creativity, aesthetics, and human imagination. Whether showcasing the brush strokes of master painters, the lens of visionary photographers, or the intricacies of design and architecture, this genre celebrates the power of visual communication. Art and photography books are a testament to the universal language of images, where every page is a canvas, every photograph a moment frozen in time, and every stroke of creativity an invitation to perceive the world in new and breathtaking ways. From classical works of art to contemporary visual experiments, this genre offers a kaleidoscope of inspiration, culture, and beauty for enthusiasts, artists, and appreciators alike.

The Humor Genre is a joyful celebration of laughter, wit, and the delightful absurdities of life. These books are the literary equivalent of a hearty belly laugh, offering readers an escape from the everyday grind into a world of amusement and merriment. Whether through clever satire, hilarious anecdotes, or the antics of unforgettable characters, humor books have the unique ability to brighten our days and provide much-needed comic relief. From timeless classics by humorists like Mark Twain and P.G. Wodehouse to contemporary comedians' witty observations, this genre invites readers to find humor in the quirks and foibles of the human experience, reminding us that laughter is truly one of life's greatest gifts.

The Old Farmer's Almanac Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook (Old Farmer's Almanac (Paperback))

The How-to and DIY Book Genre is a treasure trove of knowledge and empowerment, offering readers the tools and guidance to become masters of their own projects and endeavors. These books serve as friendly mentors, sharing step-by-step instructions, expert advice, and creative ideas across a wide spectrum of topics. From DIY home improvement and crafting to cooking, gardening, and mastering new skills, this genre empowers individuals to take on projects, solve problems, and embrace the joy of self-sufficiency. Whether you're building a piece of furniture, learning a new language, or embarking on a culinary adventure, these books are your trusted companions, transforming novices into capable do-it-yourself enthusiasts and fostering a sense of accomplishment along the way.

The Poetry Genre is a realm where words become art, and emotions find their most vivid expressions. Poetry is the distilled essence of human experience, where the beauty of language and the power of imagery intertwine. In these verses, brevity is a strength, and every word is carefully chosen to evoke feelings, provoke thought, or paint vibrant landscapes within the reader's mind. Poetry encompasses a vast spectrum of forms, from traditional sonnets and haikus to free verse and spoken word. It serves as a timeless medium for exploring the complexities of love, nature, society, and the human soul, making it a profound and enduring literary art form that continues to captivate hearts and minds.

I hope that this blog post, The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 95+ Popular Genres & Subgenres , has provided you with valuable insights into the vast array of book genres and subgenres available. It's my hope that this guide sparks your creativity, helps you find your writing niche, or simply introduces you to captivating new stories across diverse genres. Happy reading and writing!

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How to Create Antagonists & Villains Workbook Do you find it difficult to create compelling antagonists and villains for your stories? Do your villains feel cartoonish and unbelievable? Do they lack motivation or a specific game plan? Discover the secrets to crafting villains that will stick with your readers long after they finish your story, with our How to Create Antagonists & Villains Workbook.

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A flashback in a fictional novel is a scene that happened in the past to show characterization, motivation, or explain a facet of the present story. But how do you transition in and out of a flashback scene? How many are too many? Are there rules to writing flashbacks? In 10 Tips for Using Flashbacks in Your Fictional Novel, we discuss how to write clear, concise, plot-driven flashback scenes that will strengthen the story and hook your reader.

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The difference between a goal and a dream is that a goal has a deadline, a targeted finish date. Is it your goal to write and finish a book? Do you have an action plan? Or does the whole process feel overwhelming? Even if you do not have a book contract you should aim for a date of completion to help keep you on track. In our post, How to Create a Deadline for Your Fictional Novel, we show you how to calculate your finish date and set up milestones to mark your progress toward a finished book.

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The best way to learn story structure is to analyze good stories. Can you readily identify each plot point in every movie you see or book you read? Or do terms like ‘inciting incident,’ ‘midpoint reversal,’ and ‘black moment’ leave you confused? In our Learn to Plot Fiction Writing Series: Story Analysis of the movie “Jurassic World” we show you how to recognize each element and provide a Free Plot Template so you can draft satisfying, high-quality stories of your own.

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Home » Readers Blog » Different Types or Genres of Books With Examples

Different Types or Genres of Books With Examples

By Subodh Sharma

Genres of books simply specify what categories or sub-categories does a book belong to. If you are a regular book reader, you probably already know about some book genres that you have read or that you love reading.

In this post, you will learn about the two main types of books and their sub-categories which we commonly refer to as genres of books or book genres.

CONTENTS (click to navigate)

Types of Books

Genres of books.

Action and Adventure
Comic and Graphic Novel
Crime and Detective
Fan-Fiction
Historical Fiction
Magical Realism
Realistic Fiction
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Short Story
Suspense/Thriller
Biography/Autobiography
Narrative Nonfiction
Periodicals
Reference Books
Self-help Book
Poetry (Can be both Fiction or Nonfiction)

Fiction books contain a made-up story – a story that did not actually happen in real life. These stories are derived from the imagination and creativity of the authors and are not based on facts.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, 1984 by George Orwell, Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling are some of the examples of fiction books.

Non-fiction or nonfiction books are factual books. Unlike fiction books, they are based on facts and information that can be verified to be true.

Some examples of non-fiction books are The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin, How to Win Friends And Influence People by Dale Carnegie, an encyclopedia , etc.

Sometimes you may come across another category named semi-fiction . Do not be confused. Even semi-fiction books are taken to be work of fiction. Apart from the made-up story, these books also include some factual information.

For example, the famous book The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is based on real historical events of Afghanistan, but the story told in this book is actually a made up one.

The above types of books can be further divided into many sub-categories and each of these sub-categories is a genre. We will discuss the different genres of books under fiction and non-fiction categories.

( Please Note that it is totally possible for the same book to be categorized under many book genres. For example – Murder on The Orient Express by Agatha Christie can come under Crime and Detective, Mystery, Thriller and Realistic Fiction too)

Above picture shows a flowchart of different genres of books. Each of these are briefly explained below. Number 1 to 23 are book genres under FICTION category.

Following is the list of different genres of books:

1. Action and Adventure

The stories under this genre usually show an event or a series of events that happen outside the course of the protagonist’s ordinary life. The plot is mostly accompanied by danger and physical action. These stories almost always move quickly and the high pace of the plot is usually an important part of the story.

Some examples of Action and Adventure books are:

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
Life of Pi by Yann Martel

2. Anthology

An anthology is a collection of series of works such as short stories, poems, essays, plays, etc. by different authors into a single volume for publication. The selection of such works is made based on some common theme or subject of books and usually done by an editor or small editorial board.

For example: The Poets Laureate Anthology by Elizabeth Hun Schmidt

Classic refers to the fictions that are accepted as the most important and influential books of a particular time period or place. These books are widely taught in schools.

Examples of classic books are:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
1984 by George Orwell
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

4. Comic and Graphic Novel

These books are based on a sequence of hand-drawn pictures. The story is usually told visually with very few words and those words are mostly placed either in panels on top or bottom of pictures or as speech bubbles.

Some examples are:

V for Vendetta by Alan Moore
Batman: The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller
Saga by Brian K Vaughan

5. Crime and Detective

As the name suggests, this book genre deals with crime, criminal motives and the investigation and detection of the crime and criminals.

Popular examples of this genre are:

Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
And There Were None by Agatha Christie
Murder on The Orient Express by Agatha Christie

Dramas are stories composed in verse or prose, usually for theatrical performance, where conflicts and emotions are expressed through dialogue and actions.

Examples of drama are:

Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Waiting For Godot by Samuel Beckett
The Crucible by Arthur Miller

Fables are fictional narratives in prose or verse that typically features personified animals, mythical and legendary creatures, plants, etc. as the main characters. The characters in fable possess human qualities, such as the ability to speak in human language. These legendary tales demonstrate some useful truth and are meant to teach a moral lesson.

Examples of Fables are:

The Lion And The Mouse by Aesop
The Fox and The Grapes by Aesop

8. Fairy Tale

Fairy tale is usually a story for children that involves imaginary creatures and magical events.

Examples of this genre are:

Hansel and Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck
Rapunzel by Brothers Grimm
Beauty And The Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve

9. Fan-fiction

Fan Fiction, as the name suggests, is a fiction written by a fan of a particular book or book series. The characters and the plot of fan fiction are usually taken from the original work but the story is different.

Some examples of fan-fiction are:

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Harry Potter And The Method of Rationality by Eliezer Yudkowsky
James Potter and the Hall of Elders’ Crossing by G. Norman Lippert

(All three books above are fan fiction of Harry Potter Series)

10. Fantasy

A Book under this genre contains a story set in a fantasy world – a world that is not real and often includes magic, magical creatures, and supernatural events.

Some popular examples of fantasy are:

Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
The Lord of The Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

11. Historical Fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of book that includes writings that reconstruct the past. The story is set in the past keeping the manners, social conditions and other details of that period unchanged. The writers incorporate the past events or people in their fictitious stories.

Examples of this historical fiction are:

Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

Horror is a genre that is intended to or has the ability to create the feeling of fear, repulsion, fright or terror in the readers. In other words, it creates a frightening and horror atmosphere.

Examples of horror fiction are:

The Shining by Stephen King
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
It by Stephen King

Humor fiction is usually full of fun, fancy, and excitement. It is meant to entertain and sometimes cause intended laughter in readers.

Examples of humor fiction are:

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to The Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome

It’s a story, sometimes of a national or folk hero that is considered to be based on facts but also includes imaginative material. Narratives in this genre may demonstrate human values, and possess certain qualities that give the readers a reason to believe in the tale.

Examples of Legend fiction are:

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
The Hollow Hills by Mary Stewart
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

15. Magical Realism

It is a genre of book wherein magical or unreal elements play a natural part in an otherwise-realistic environment.

Examples of magical realism are:

One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov

16. Mystery

Mystery books have a suspenseful plot that often involves a mysterious crime. Suspects and motives are considered and clues throughout the story lead to a solution to the problem.

Examples of mystery books are:

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
Angels and Demons by Dan Brown

17. Mythology

These books include a legend or traditional narrative, often based in part on historical events, that reveals human behavior and natural phenomena by its symbolism and often pertaining to the actions of the gods.

Examples of mythology books are:

Mythology by Edith Hamilton
Treasury of Greek Mythology by Donna Jo Napoli
Norse Gods and Giants by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire

18. Realistic Fiction

Realistic fiction has a story that is true to life and seems real but isn’t actually real. Stories under this book genre are often set in modern times and have characters who seem like real people.

Examples of realistic fiction are:

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Wonder by R.J Palacio

19. Romance

The primary focus of romance fiction is on the relationship and romantic love between two people. These books have an emotionally satisfying and optimistic ending.

Examples of this book genre are:

Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L James
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Satire is a genre of book that entertains making fun of vices, foolishness, shortcomings, etc. of individuals, corporations, government, or society through sarcasm and irony . It is often done with the intention of inducing the sense of improvement among people.

Although satire is usually meant to be humorous, the humor often shows the dark truth of the society and is meant to work as constructive social criticism.

Examples of Satire are:

Animal Farm by George Orwell
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

21. Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)

Science Fiction typically deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced science and technology, time travel, extraterrestrial life, etc. The stories are often set in the future or on other planets.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Martian by Andy Weir
Dune by Frank Herbert

22. Short Story

A short story is a short prose fiction that typically can be read in one sitting. The stories under this genre often do not have subplots. It deals with a few characters and aims at the unity of effect and often concentrate on the creation of mood rather than plot.

Examples of short stories are:

Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
The Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

23. Suspense/Thriller

This genre of book is characterized and defined by the moods they evoke among the readers, giving them heightened feelings of suspense, excitement, thrill, surprise, anticipation, and anxiety. Literary devices such as plot twists and cliffhangers are extensively used in this genre.

Some popular examples of suspense/thriller books are:

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson
Deception Point by Dan Brown

Above genres of books were under FICTION category. Now, following is the list of different genres of books under NON-FICTION category:

24. Biography/Autobiography

Biography is a narrative on someone’s life written by someone else. When a person himself writes about his life, then the book is called an autobiography.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
Edison: A Biography by Matthew Josephson
The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin

An essay is usually a short literary composition that reflects an author’s outlook or point of view on a particular topic.

Examples of some popular essays are:

A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift
On The Pleasure of Hating by William Hazlitt
As a White Slave by Nellie Bly

A memoir is basically a collection of memories that an individual writes on moments or events that he experiences in his life. These writings are taken to be factual.

Sometimes a Memoir is taken to be an autobiography, but they are actually different. An autobiography is an account of the person’s entire lifetime, but a memoir is an account of only a narrower set of the author’s experience.

Some example of memoirs are:

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover
The Liars’ Club by Mary Karr

27. Narrative Nonfiction

Narrative nonfiction (also known as literary nonfiction or creative nonfiction) is a genre of books that uses literary styles and techniques to create factually accurate narratives in a format that tells a story.

Some examples of Narrative nonfiction are:

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

28. Periodicals

Periodicals as the name suggest, are written periodically at regular definitive intervals. Newspapers , magazines , Journals are some examples.

29. Reference Books

These are books that we refer to when we need some specific information. Some examples of this genre of books are a dictionary , an encyclopedia , an atlas , etc.

30. Self-help Book

Self-help books contain information that is intended to help the readers to solve their personal problems and make their life better.

Some Popular examples of self-help books are:

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Think And Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

This is a public address or discourse written into a book.

Examples of speech books are:

Lend Me Your Ears by William Safire
The Penguin Book of Historic Speeches by Brian MacArthur (Editor)
Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln

32. Textbook

A textbook is a manual of instruction in any branch of study. It contains an authoritative and detailed factual description of a topic. Textbooks are produced as per the demands of educational institutions. Mathematics , science , and history textbooks taught in schools are some basic examples.

Poetry is one of the most important genres of books in which the expression of feelings and ideas is given intensity by the use of distinctive style and rhythm. Poems written under poetry can be of different types according to the style in which they are written.

Poetry can fall into both Fiction and Non-Fiction categories. If the poetry is based on facts, it will be a nonfiction poetry, and if it is not based on facts then it will be a fiction poetry.

Some examples of poetry books are:

Where The Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
The Odyssey by Homer
Paradise Lost by John Milton

So, this was the list of genres of books with brief descriptions and examples.

Although most of the important genres are covered in this article, there can still be some more that exist. If you are aware of any other genres of books that are not mentioned here, please mention it in the comment section below. I will add that too.

41 thoughts on “Different Types or Genres of Books With Examples”

I want to ask if story is based on crossing dimensions means one person meets the other people of different dimension. What type of genre will describe this story ?

Hi Shweta! That would be a Science Fiction!

Would a non-fiction essay about the origin and evolution of the religious thinking of humankind be rightly classified as: Genre: Essay Subgenre: Religion/History?

How about travel books. Are they their own genre?

Very clear info ,now I have got a clear understanding of it, thanks!

This was a cool description of the genres, now i know what genres I’m interested in.

Thanks for this. I will point out that the first Harry Potter book was originally named Harry Potter and the Philosophers stone and although this was changed in America to Sorcerer. J.K Rowling regretted this and now all editions are name Harry Potter and the Philosophers stone.

Again, Really good guide.

I found this very useful indeed and citing examples in each genre helped to illustrate the explanations and also gave me additions to my library.Thank you.

You are welcome, Rita. I am glad that you found it helpful! 🙂

This is up to standard information

Thanks a lot, it’s very useful

Thank you for this valuable and helpful information.

this web page was very help full, do you know how can I quote some of the information in this webpage ?

Great list here mate, thank you.

Hi, thank you for this descriptions . May i ask , if i am planning a seminar and would be requiring sponsors and partnerships , what type of books do i write to present my ideal and proposal

I’m sorry, Christiana. I don’t have much idea on that!

may be you can not call it a book but a pitch deck would do..

May I translate it to Chinese and introduce your article to my friends ?

Sure, you can! Go ahead! 🙂

Thanks, although this is our homework

This is helpful

Hey Subodh, thanks for the content. It helped me prepare for my workshop on creative writing. Keep up the good work, buddy.

Thank you, Saurav! I’m glad it was helpful! 🙂

Great information – thank you 🙂

Can you suggest any more good mystery books?

Hi, Jai. Here’s a List you can refer to. However, I would suggest you to read their reviews before you buy them.

please, can a book belong to more than a genre?

Yes, Maxwell. It surely can!

Thank you so much this will help me in my exams

Thankyou so much ! It helped

You are welcome, Manasa. I’m glad it was helpful.

Thank you so much, it was really helpful, i hope have learnt something new today, i have been reading books for many years not knowingly the gener and the different categories of books. Its funny, but one thing i must say that i have realised that i was reading all kind of books. Once again thank you so much for the info, and definitely it was helpful

Yeah Sap, it’s always great to learn something new. And good to know that you have been reading all kinds of books. Keep Reading, Keep Growing! 🙂

Harry Potter And The Method of Rationality by Eliezer Yudkowsky James Potter and the Hall of Elders’ Crossing by G. Norman Lippert Where can I get these fan fictions?

I don’t know about the physical versions of these books, but you can get the pdf versions from the links below. It’s free & legal! https://archive.org/details/hpmor http://www.jamespotterseries.com/

very appropriate and useful information has been provided. thanks …

Thanks a lot.

Thanks very much…it was so helpful

You are welcome Roberta. I’m glad it was helpful…

Thank you, for the brief and well stated descriptions of every genre.

You are welcome!

A comprehensive guide to the different types of books

There are 19 major fiction genres and 5 major non-fiction genres.
Each type of book has differences in target audience, market appeal, expected word count, and price point
Knowing the conventions of each type of book helps you outline and write a great book for fans of your genre.

There are dozens of different book genres, from adventure fiction to self-help books. Many books fall into multiple or crossover genres, such as fantasy and science fiction, or crime and mystery novels.

Each type of book or book genre has a different audience, ideal word count, and price point. If you’re thinking about writing genre fiction, it’s a good idea to know the conventions for your chosen genre before you start writing or planning your book.

Here’s everything you need to know about the different types of books.

What are the different types of books?

Here’s a rundown of every main book genre, including 19 fiction and 5 non-fiction book types:

Adventure stories
Fairy tales, fables, and folk tales
Historical fiction
Humour and satire
Literary fiction
Science fiction
Short stories
Women’s fiction
Young adult

Non-fiction

Autobiography and memoir
Non-fiction novel

What’s the most popular book genre?

All readers have different tastes, so it’s tricky to determine which book genre is most popular. However, taking a look at the all-time bestseller list (excluding religious texts) sheds some light on book genre popularity:


A Tale Of Two Cities — Charles Dickens	200 million	Historical fiction
The Little Prince — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry	200 million	Adventure
The Lord of the Rings — JRR Tolkien	150 million	Fantasy
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone — JK Rowling	120 million	Fantasy
And Then There Were None — Agatha Christie	100 million	Mystery
Dream Of The Red Chamber — Cao Xueqin	100 million	Classics
The Hobbit — JRR Tolkien	100 million	Fantasy
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — CS Lewis	85 million	Fantasy
She: A History of Adventure — H. Rider Haggard	83 million	Adventure
The Da Vinci Code — Dan Brown	80 million	Mystery
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets — JK Rowling	77 million	Fantasy

‍ *Figures taken from Wikipedia in December 2023. Rounded to the nearest million books sold.

With nearly half of these bestsellers falling into the fantasy genre, this is arguably the most popular type of book among readers. This is backed up by the popularity of series like Harry Potter , Lord Of The Rings , and A Song Of Ice And Fire .

Understanding the importance of book genres

Genre is essential information for readers and publishers. It helps readers know at a glance if they’re interested in reading a book, and helps publishers understand the marketability of a book. It’s even important for categorising your book when it eventually hits bookshop shelves.

As a writer, you need to understand the different types of books so you can:

Fulfill reader expectations — Each genre comes with specific expectations (for example, mystery books must include a puzzle that needs to be solved). Don’t leave readers disappointed by mischaracterising your book.
Write something new — Getting a good grounding of other books in your genre will help you write an original story that doesn’t follow the same old tropes.
Get published — Knowing which genre(s) your book falls into will help you sell it to publishers (or readers if you’re self-publishing).

Every book genre, explained

Let’s take a look at each of the major types of books in more depth, with key information for writers looking to explore each genre including bestselling book examples and the average price for each kind of book.

1. Adventure stories

Adventure novels whisk readers off to faraway lands. Unlike fantasy novels, they tend to stay in the real world (although there’s often a lot of crossover between these genres). Children’s novels often fall into the adventure category, since they’re designed to spark imaginations.

Adventure story bestsellers:

The Little Prince — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
She: A History of Adventure — H. Rider Haggard
The Alchemist — Paulo Coelho

Number of adventure books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average word count: 96,000 words

Average price for a paperback adventure book: £8.99

2. Classics

Classics encompass a range of book genres, but they always stand the test of time. Classics include centuries-old stories like Homer’s Odyssey, but also more modern novels that have drawn significant acclaim and attention, such as Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and George Orwell’s 1984.

Classic fiction bestsellers:

A Tale Of Two Cities — Charles Dickens
Dream Of The Red Chamber — Cao Xueqin
The Catcher in the Rye — JD Salinger

Number of classic books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback classics book: £6.88

From murder mysteries to true crime stories, crime is an ever popular genre of books. It tells sinister stories of wrongdoing, and the search for justice. This genre can be very lucrative, with many authors becoming household names, such as Agatha Christie, Val McDermid, and Harlan Coben.

Crime bestsellers:

And Then There Were None — Agatha Christie
The Godfather — Mario Puzo
Gone Girl — Gillian Flynn

Number of crime novels available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average word count: 89,000 words

Average price for a paperback crime novel: £8.94

4. Fairy tales, fables, and folk tales

Folk tales date back to ancient times, with Aesop being perhaps the most famous curator of these short-form stories. Many fairy tales are of unknown origin, but have survived through retellings down the generations. Modern fairy tale writers like Angela Carter put a contemporary spin on traditional tales.

Fairy tale bestsellers:

The Adventures of Pinocchio — Carlo Collodi
Jonathan Livingston Seagull — Richard Bach

‍ Number of fairy and folk tale anthologies available on Amazon: 3,000+

Average word count: 30,000 words

Average price for a paperback book of fairy tales: £10.66

Fantasy may be the most popular modern book genre. Thanks to series like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson , it’s particularly popular with young adult readers, although more and more fantasy novels are written for adults (George RR Martin, we’re looking at you). These stories take readers on a journey beyond the known world, to places conjured in the author’s imagination.

Fantasy bestsellers:

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone — JK Rowling
The Hobbit — JRR Tolkien
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe — CS Lewis

Number of fantasy books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average word count: 109,000 words

Average price for a paperback fantasy book: £10.44

6. Historical fiction

Authors like Hilary Mantel and Toni Morrison have popularised the historical fiction genre in recent years. These books give readers a glimpse into the past, with many stories set in times of great conflict and change.

Historical fiction bestsellers:

Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ — Lew Wallace
The Name of the Rose — Umberto Eco

Number of historical fiction books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average word count: 102,000 words

Average price for a paperback historical fiction book: £8.99

People never tire of being terrified — so horror novels remain some of the bestselling books in the world. While the genre has origins in Gothic stories like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , authors like Stephen King and R L Stine have modernised horror for adults and children alike. The genre has also spawned hundreds of popular horror movies based on books .

Horror bestsellers:

Flowers in the Attic — VC Andrews
Rebecca — Daphne Du Maurier
Jaws — Peter Benchley

‍ Number of horror books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average price for a paperback horror novel: £8.89

8. Humour and satire

From dark dystopian satire like A Clockwork Orange to comedic memoirs, the humour genre of books spans a range of titles. Comedy writing is a real art, so this genre can be hard to pull off for new writers — but a funny book is truly unputdownable.

Humour bestsellers:

Animal Farm — George Orwell
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn — Mark Twain
The Good Soldier Švejk — Jaroslav Hašek

Number of humour books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average word count: No data available

Average price for a paperback humour novel: £8.89

9. Literary fiction

Literary fiction is reserved for books that don’t slot neatly into more traditional genres, although it can also be used to differentiate from lighter fiction. Most literary fiction books are character-driven rather than plot-driven, so they tend to be more introspective and meandering.

Literary fiction bestsellers:

To Kill a Mockingbird — Harper Lee
War and Peace — Leo Tolstoy

Number of literary fiction books available on Amazon: 80,000+

Average word count: 98,000 words

Average price for a paperback literary fiction novel: £8.99

10. Mystery

Mystery is often seen as a subset of the crime genre, but it’s so popular and enduring that it deserves a category of its own. Agatha Christie, master of the whodunit, is the second best selling author in history, after William Shakespeare. Mysteries are full of suspense, and usually keep the reader guessing until the last moment.

Mystery bestsellers:

The Da Vinci Code — Dan Brown
Angels & Demons — Dan Brown

Number of mystery books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average word count: 91,000 words

Average price for a paperback mystery novel: £8.99

Poetry is completely different to novels in form, structure, and style. It contains a wealth of genres in itself, from nonsense verse to war poetry. Poetry has fallen somewhat out of favour in modern book sales, though poets like Amanda Gorman and Ocean Vuong are repopularising the form.

Bestselling poets:

William Shakespeare
Alexander Pushkin

Number of poetry books available on Amazon: 30,000+

Average price for a paperback poetry collection: £10.19

Plays are written to be performed rather than read, but they’re still seen as a key literary genre. This is largely due to the enduring popularity of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as other theatrical greats like Tennessee Williams’s A Streetcar Named Desire and Oscar Wilde’s Salome.

Best selling playwrights:

Number of playscript books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average page count: 90-130 pages

Average price for a paperback playscript: £11.36

13. Romance

Everyone enjoys a good love story — which is why romance novels are one of the most popular types of books. Romance authors Barbara Cartland and Danielle Steel are the third and fourth bestselling fiction writers, with more than 2 billion book sales between them. Even non-romance novels often have a romantic arc at their centre, proving that love and relationships are central to many great stories.

Romance bestsellers:

The Bridges of Madison County — Robert James Waller
Love Story — Erich Segal
The Fault in Our Stars — John Green

Number of romance books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback romance novel: £8.99

14. Science fiction

From Stan Lee to Ursula K Le Guin, there’s no shortage of famous sci-fi writers. The genre has grown in popularity thanks to the boom in science fiction films based on books, such as Dune and 2001: A Space Odyssey . Sci-fi is often combined with fantasy, and there are some similarities between these types of books. But sci-fi books are usually bound by the laws of science as we know them in the real world.

Sci-fi bestsellers:

Nineteen Eighty-Four — George Orwell
Dune — Frank Herbert
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy — Douglas Adams

Number of sci-fi books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback sci-fi novel: £8.16

15. Short stories and novellas

Short stories are often found in anthologies or collections, which can be by the same or a variety of authors. Like poetry, short stories tend to be less popular with modern readers, though they remain popular with writers.

Short story bestsellers:

James Bond stories — Ian Fleming
Perry Mason stories — Erle Stanley Gardner
Jack Reacher — Lee Child

Number of short story collections available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback short story collection: £10.19

16. Thrillers

Thrillers are your typical page-turners. Full of action and suspense, thrillers can also often cross genres, particularly with crime and mystery. John Grisham, Stieg Larsson, and Gillian Flynn are some of the most popular thriller authors writing today, with Flynn’s Gone Girl among the top three bestselling books in the genre.

Thriller bestsellers:

The Eagle Has Landed — Jack Higgins
The Girl on the Train — Paula Hawkins

Number of thriller books available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback thriller novel: £8.99

War is a formative experience on an individual, national, and international level. Perhaps that’s why stories of war fascinate readers the world over, and remain such an enduring theme in modern fiction. War stories are often (though not always) a subset of historical fiction.

War bestsellers:

All Quiet on the Western Front — Eric Maria Remarque
All the Light We Cannot See — Anthony Doerr

Number of war novels available on Amazon: 40,000+

Average price for a paperback war novel: £8.99

18. Women’s fiction

Women’s fiction describes books that centre on the experiences and actions of female characters. It can be a controversial term — not everyone agrees with generalising fiction on a gendered basis — but it’s a common way for publishers to market these books. So authors should be aware of it as a genre in its own right. Women’s fiction encompasses books as wide-ranging as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americana to Jojo Moyes’s Me Before You.

Women’s fiction bestsellers:

The Women's Room — Marilyn French
Pride and Prejudice — Jane Austen
Fear of Flying — Erica Jong

Number of women’s fiction novels available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average word count: 94,000 words

Average price for a paperback women’s fiction novel: £8.99

19. Young adult fiction

Despite being targeted at 13-18 year olds, young adult books have sold more than perhaps any other genre in recent years. This is thanks to hugely popular series like Harry Potter , The Hunger Games , and Twilight. YA books often have a secondary genre, too — Harry Potter and Twilight , for example, are fantasy novels, while John Green’s The Fault In Our Stars is a romance.

YA fiction bestsellers:

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets — JK Rowling
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban — JK Rowling

Number of YA fiction novels available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average word count: 70,000 words

Average price for a paperback YA fiction novel: £9.39

20. Autobiography and memoir

Memoirs and autobiographies are popular among self-publishing writers who have incredible life stories to share. Many famous figures also write autobiographies, or hire a ghostwriter to write one on their behalf, giving fans a glimpse into their lives.

Autobiography and memoir bestsellers:

The Diary of Anne Frank — Anne Frank
Autobiography of a Yogi — Paramahansa Yogananda
Wolf Totem — Jiang Rong

Number of autobiography books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average price for a paperback autobiography: £9.99

21. Biography

There are millions of real-life stories out there just waiting to be told. Unlike autobiographies and memoirs, which the author writes about themselves, biographies tell the story of someone else’s life. These are often famous people — Irving Stone’s Lust For Life , for example, is a biographical novel about Vincent Van Gogh — but they can also be people you know, or lesser-known individuals of interest.

Biographical bestsellers:

Lust for Life — Irving Stone
Diana: Her True Story — Andrew Morton
Wild Swans — Jung Chang

Number of biography books available on Amazon: 80,000+

Average price for a paperback biography: £9.99

Essays are more academic than other forms of writing. They tend to follow a thesis set by the author, and elaborate on their perspective on a particular topic or theme. Essays can be book-length (such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s We Should All Be Feminists), or part of an essay collection (such as James Baldwin’s Notes of a Native Son ).

Essay collection bestsellers:

The Hite Report — Shere Hite
A Message to Garcia — Elbert Hubbard

Number of essay collections available on Amazon: 60,000+

Average price for a paperback essay collection: £9.07

23. Non-fiction novels

Non-fiction novels blur the line between fiction and reality. While the facts stay intact, the form and style is closer to that of a traditional fiction book. Non-fiction novels use character and other literary devices to tell a true story. Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood is a classic example of a non-fiction novel.

Non-fiction novel examples:

Helter Skelter — Curt Gentry and Vincent Bugliosi
In Cold Blood — Truman Capote
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee — Dee Brown

Number of non-fiction novels available on Amazon: 50,000+

Average price for a non-fiction novel: £9.99

24. Self-help books

Self-help books are probably the most popular modern non-fiction genre, since they offer the promise of self-improvement and healing. This also tends to make them a little more expensive than other genres. Books like Dale Carnegie’s How To Win Friends and Influence People have become part of the modern self-help canon.

Self-help book bestsellers:

You Can Heal Your Life — Louise Hay
The Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care — Benjamin Spock
Your Erroneous Zones — Wayne Dyer

Number of self-help books available on Amazon: 70,000+

Average price for a paperback self-help book: £12.27

Which book genre should you write?

Most writers naturally gravitate towards writing in a genre they enjoy reading. And while being well-read in a genre is important, it’s also helpful to learn more about the commercial aspects of your chosen type of book. This includes marketability, competition, and price points.

For example, non-fiction novels have fallen out of favour in recent years, but similar categories like historical fiction and autobiography are still very popular. So think about how you want to position your book, and the nuances of your chosen genre.

Learning more about your preferred genre helps you understand the market for your book, which is especially important when it comes to self-publishing your work.

Now you know a little more about your chosen genre, it’s time to plan your new book. Find out how to write a book outline — it’s a failsafe way to plan a book in any genre.

For the average price per paperback we calculated the average price of the top 10 featured books in the category.

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The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 35 Popular Genres, Explained

A book genre is a category or type of literature that is defined by a specific set of characteristics and themes. Genres comprise romance, mystery, science fiction, fantasy, and many others. Understanding book genres is crucial for readers and authors as it provides an idea of what to expect in a particular book and helps select a read that matches one’s taste and preferences. For authors, it also helps market their books and reach the right audience. The availability of different genres gives readers a sense of belonging and community, allowing them to connect with others who share their interests and passion for specific books.

Genres play a significant role in shaping our reading experiences, helping us to find the perfect book for us, and providing us with a deeper understanding of the literary world.

Let’s Discover your Next Book’s Genre

Being an author, you might relate to how sometimes it isn’t easy to understand what genre you have to write. Many book libraries might say there are only 50 book genres, but many say there are more.

1. Romance Books

Romance books focus on the relationships between characters, typically romantic relationships. The central theme of these books is love, passion, and emotions. They can range from contemporary romance genre to historical romance, paranormal romance, and fantasy romance. Romance novels feature characters seeking love and happiness, and the narrative discovers the obstacles and challenges they face in achieving their goals.

Fire up your passion for romance with these three sizzling books that will ignite your inner fire and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just looking for a steamy read, these novels are sure to captivate and enthrall you from start to finish.

Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James

This iconic book has taken the world by storm with its sensual and intense romance between the enigmatic Christian Grey and the innocent Anastasia Steele. Dive into the world of BDSM and forbidden desire as the two characters navigate their complex and all-consuming relationship.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Transport yourself to the Scottish Highlands in this epic tale of love, adventure, and time-travel. Follow Claire Randall as she finds herself torn between two men from different worlds and different times, all while trying to navigate the dangerous and tumultuous landscape of 18th-century Scotland.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

This timeless classic is a must-read for any romance enthusiast. Follow the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates the trials and tribulations of love and society in Regency-era England. With its witty dialogue, unforgettable characters, and swoon-worthy romance, this book is sure to kindle your inner fire.

2. Fantasy Books

Fantasy books are a genre of fiction that is typically set in an imaginary world with elements of magic, mythical creatures, and supernatural powers. The stories of this genre lead heroes on quests to save their kingdoms or world. They are filled with imaginative elements such as dragons, unicorns, sorcerers, and enchanted forests.

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

No list of fantasy books would be complete without mentioning this classic epic tale. Follow the journey of Frodo Baggins as he sets out to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the dark lord Sauron. Filled with rich world-building, intricate mythology, and unforgettable characters, The Lord of the Rings is a timeless masterpiece that has captivated readers for generations.

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

Enter the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with Harry Potter and his friends as they battle the dark wizard Voldemort. The Harry Potter series is a modern fantasy classic that combines elements of coming-of-age, adventure, and magic into a spellbinding tale of courage, friendship, and the power of love.

Mistborn Trilogy by Brandon Sanderson

Step into the dark and magical world of Scadrial, where the oppressed skaa population looks to a young thief named Vin to lead a rebellion against the immortal Lord Ruler. With its unique system of magic based on ingesting metals, intricate world-building, and well-drawn characters, the Mistborn trilogy is a gripping and inventive fantasy series that will leave you breathless.

3. Mystery Books

In this genre book’s story revolves around a mystery. Characters of the book strive to detect something with different clues, which is why this type of story is also called detective fiction.

Over the years, mystery books have captivated readers with their suspenseful plots, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists. If you’re a fan of enigmatic thrills, then stepping into a good mystery book is the perfect way to spend your time. Here are 5 of the best mystery books that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

One of the most popular mystery novels of recent years, “Gone Girl” tells the story of a husband and wife whose marriage takes a dark turn when the wife goes missing. As the search for the truth unfolds, secrets are revealed and the reader is kept on the edge of their seat until the final page.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

This gripping mystery follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate the disappearance of a young woman from a powerful family. As they research deeper into the case, they uncover a web of corruption and deceit that puts their lives in danger.

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

4. Horror Books

Horror books are usually part of fiction that seeks to scare, unsettle, or thrill its readers by inducing feelings of fear, dread, and anxiety. These Horror books feature supernatural creatures, ghosts, monsters, and other frightening or unsettling elements.

The Shining by Stephen King

Considered a classic of the horror genre, “The Shining” has been terrifying readers since its publication in 1977. The story follows Jack Torrance, an aspiring writer and recovering alcoholic, who takes a job as the winter caretaker of the Overlook Hotel. As the isolated hotel’s sinister past begins to reveal itself, Jack’s sanity starts to unravel, leading to a horrifying conclusion. Stephen King’s masterful storytelling and ability to create a sense of dread make this novel a must-read for any horror fan.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

No list of horror books would be complete without mentioning the iconic vampire Count Dracula. Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” is a timeless tale of horror and suspense that has inspired countless adaptations in various forms of media. The novel follows the sinister Count Dracula as he terrorizes the residents of Victorian-era London, weaving a chilling narrative that has captivated readers for generations. If you’re a fan of gothic horror and classic literature, “Dracula” is a must-read.

IT by Stephen King

Another classic from the master of horror himself, “IT” is a sprawling epic that weaves together horror, coming-of-age, and supernatural elements into a chilling narrative. The story follows a group of childhood friends who band together to confront the malevolent entity known as Pennywise the Dancing Clown, who preys on the children of Derry, Maine. “IT” is a truly terrifying novel that explores into the darkest depths of fear and showcases Stephen King’s unparalleled storytelling abilities.

5. Thriller Fiction books

In this genre, the story has numerous overlapping subgenres. This means books of this genre are characterized by fast-paced, energetic, and shocking stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats. These books contain espionage, political intrigue, and psychological tension. Examples of popular thriller fiction books are The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, and many others.

You are a fan of heart-pounding suspense, unexpected twists, and gripping narratives that keep you on the edge of your seat. If you are looking for your next thrilling read that you simply cannot put down, look no further. Here is a list of 3 must-read unputdownable thriller fiction books that will captivate and enthrall you from the very first page.

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

This psychological thriller follows the story of Rachel, a woman who takes the same train every day and fantasizes about the seemingly perfect couple she sees from the window. But one day, she witnesses something shocking and becomes entangled in a thrilling mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.

This dark and twisted tale explores the complexities of marriage and deception. When Amy goes missing on her fifth wedding anniversary, all eyes turn to her husband, Nick. As the story unfolds, nothing is as it seems, and you will be kept guessing as the narrative explores deeper into the minds of its unreliable narrators.

The Silent Patient by Alex Micha elides

In this chilling psychological thriller, Alicia Berenson is a famous painter who shoots her husband and then stops speaking altogether. Psychotherapist Theo Faber is determined to unravel the mystery behind her silence, leading to shocking revelations and a conclusion that will leave you speechless.

6. Science Books

Science fiction or books are based on scientific concepts such as time travel, predicting the human future, and space exploration. Books on anthropology and sociology are typical examples of this genre.

Over the years, science has been a fascinating and captivating field that has intrigued many enthusiasts. For those who want to explore deeper into the mysteries of the universe and expand their knowledge, there are countless science books available that offer valuable insights and discoveries. If you are looking to transform your mind and enhance your understanding of the world around you, here are 3 top picks in science books that are sure to pique your interest.

Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

"Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari

This groundbreaking book takes readers on a journey through the history of humanity, exploring how Homo sapiens evolved and became the dominant species on Earth. Yuval Noah Harari explores into the cognitive, agricultural, and scientific revolutions that shaped human society and offers thought-provoking insights into the nature of our species. “Sapiens” is a must-read for anyone interested in anthropology, history, and the human experience.

Cosmos by Carl Sagan

Carl Sagan’s “Cosmos” is a timeless classic that explores the mysteries of the universe and our place in it. From the origins of the cosmos to the search for extraterrestrial life, Sagan’s poetic prose and profound insights make this book a must-read for anyone interested in astronomy and astrophysics. “Cosmos” will take you on a breathtaking journey through space and time, inspiring wonder and curiosity along the way.

The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins

In “The Selfish Gene,” Richard Dawkins revolutionizes our understanding of evolution by introducing the concept of the gene as the driving force behind natural selection. Dawkins explores how genes act in their own self-interest, shaping the behavior of organisms and influencing the course of evolution. This book challenges conventional wisdom and offers a groundbreaking perspective on the biological world.

7. Crime Books

This genre revolves around criminal activities, investigations, and detective work. They can be fiction or non-fiction, ranging from light-hearted to severe and dark. Some popular sub-genres within the crime books genre include mystery, thrillers, and detective stories.

This novel has taken the literary world by storm with its gripping narrative and unreliable narrators. The story follows Nick and Amy Dunne, a seemingly perfect couple whose marriage takes a dark turn when Amy goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the true nature of their relationship comes to light.

This internationally acclaimed novel introduces readers to Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled hacker, and Mikael Blomkvist, an investigative journalist. Together, they become entangled in a complex web of corruption, conspiracy, and murder as they attempt to solve the decades-old disappearance of a young woman from a wealthy family.

While not a traditional crime novel, this story is filled with suspense, intrigue, and shocking revelations. Set in a wealthy Australian suburb, the book follows a group of mothers whose seemingly perfect lives start to unravel when a mysterious death occurs at a school trivia night. As secrets are exposed and tensions rise, the truth behind the tragedy is slowly uncovered.

8. Historical Books

Historical books focus on past events and provide a detailed account of specific historical periods, figures, or events. They may also provide an analysis or interpretation of those events and their impact on the world. Examples of historical books are biographies, memoirs, textbooks, and works of historical fiction.

Just like a time machine, historical books have the power to transport us to different eras, cultures, and experiences. If you’re looking to investigate the past and enrich your reading list with some captivating historical tales, look no further! Here are three of the best historical books that will captivate your imagination and expand your knowledge

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

Just imagine yourself in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, where two sisters commence on a journey of survival, love, and sacrifice. “The Nightingale” beautifully portrays the strength and resilience of women during one of the darkest periods in history. Kristin Hannah’s poignant storytelling will tug at your heartstrings and leave you mesmerized till the very end.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

Just a young girl hiding from the horrors of the Holocaust, Anne Frank’s diary captures the innocence, hopes, and fears of a teenager during one of the most devastating times in history. Her words provide a firsthand account of what life was like in hiding and the resilience of the human spirit. This timeless classic is a must-read for everyone.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Just set in Nazi Germany, “The Book Thief” follows the life of a young girl named Liesel who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others during a time when words have the power to both destroy and heal. Markus Zusak weaves a mesmerizing tale of love, friendship, and the power of storytelling that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

9. Paranormal Books

These books deal with supernatural elements, such as ghosts, vampires, werewolves, witches, and other paranormal creatures. Readers are either thrilled or scared by an exploration of the supernatural world and its inhabitants.

Over the years, the paranormal genre has captivated readers with its mysterious and supernatural elements. From ghost stories to psychic powers, the world of the paranormal offers a thrilling escape from reality. If you’re a fan of all things supernatural or looking to dip your toes into the genre, we’ve compiled a list of the 3 best paranormal books that are sure to intrigue and entertain you. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal enthusiast or a curious skeptic, these books are bound to spark your imagination and keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

Considered a classic in the horror genre, “The Haunting of Hill House” is a must-read for any paranormal enthusiast. The story follows four characters who visit an infamous haunted house to explore its supernatural happenings. Shirley Jackson masterfully weaves a tale of psychological terror and suspense, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is imagined. With its chilling atmosphere and eerie occurrences, this book is sure to haunt you long after you’ve turned the last page.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman’s “The Graveyard Book” is a delightful blend of fantasy and horror that is perfect for readers of all ages. The story follows a young boy named Nobody “Bod” Owens, who is raised by the supernatural inhabitants of a graveyard after his family is murdered. With its atmospheric setting and whimsical characters, this book explores themes of life, death, and the afterlife in a captivating and imaginative way. Gaiman’s storytelling and world-building make this a must-read for anyone looking for a paranormal tale with a touch of heart.

10. Children’s Books

Children’s books are explicitly for children up to 12. These books are designed to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. These books feature simple language, attention-grabbing illustrations, and engaging storylines. Examples of popular children’s books contain Where the Wild Things Are , Charlotte’s Web and The Giving Tree.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

This classic picture book has been capturing the hearts of children and adults alike since its publication in 1963. The story follows the adventures of Max, a young boy who sails to an island inhabited by wild creatures. With its imaginative illustrations and timeless message about the power of imagination, “Where the Wild Things Are” is a must-have for every child’s book collection.

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

First published in 1952, “Charlotte’s Web” is a heartwarming tale of friendship and loyalty. The story centers around a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely bond with a spider named Charlotte. This beloved classic has been enchanting readers for generations with its poignant themes and memorable characters.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

With its simple yet profound message about love and selflessness, “The Giving Tree” is a touching story that resonates with readers of all ages. Shel Silverstein’s timeless tale of a tree that gives everything it has to a boy it loves is a poignant reminder of the importance of gratitude and generosity.

11. Action and Adventure Books

Action and adventure books are a genre of fiction that typically feature physical feats, dangerous situations, and dramatic events. These also lead the protagonist to embark on an expedition or journey. These books are known for their fast-paced, exciting storylines and feature indecision and danger elements, making them appealing to readers who enjoy excitement and buzz. Examples of popular action and adventure books are The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark by James Rollins, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

Treasure Island by Robert Louis

One classic example of an action and adventure book is “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson. This timeless tale of pirates, treasure hunts, and high-sea adventures has been a favorite among readers of all ages for generations. The story of young Jim Hawkins and the infamous Long John Silver continues to capture the imaginations of readers with its swashbuckling action and thrilling escapades.

Dirk Pitt by Clive Cussler

For those looking for a more contemporary take on the action genre, authors like Clive Cussler and Lee Child are known for their pulse-pounding thrillers that keep readers glued to the pages. Cussler’s “Dirk Pitt” series and Child’s “Jack Reacher” series are both filled with high-stakes action, daring escapes, and tough-as-nails protagonists who always find a way to come out on top.

Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton

Another must-read in the action and adventure genre is “Jurassic Park” by Michael Crichton. This sci-fi thriller about a theme park filled with genetically engineered dinosaurs gone awry is a suspenseful and adrenaline-fueled ride from start to finish. Crichton’s skillful blend of science fiction, action, and suspense has solidified “Jurassic Park” as a modern classic in the genre.

12. Dystopian Books

These books are part of a subgenre of science fiction and speculative fiction that explore the idea of a society or community typically characterized by poverty, oppression, and suffering. It may also cover other adverse factors such as environmental disasters, resource depletion, and technological or political control.

Over the years, dystopian literature has gained immense popularity for its ability to explore the darkest corners of human existence while offering readers a thrilling escape into alternate realities. These books often depict a society in disarray, highlighting themes of oppression, survival, and resilience. If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction and looking for your next captivating read, here are three must-read Dystopian books that will have you on the edge of your seat.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

This critically acclaimed series follows the story of Katniss Everdeen, a young girl forced to compete in a brutal televised event where children fight to the death. As Katniss navigates the treacherous arena, she must rely on her wit, strength, and resilience to survive and protect her loved ones.

1984 by George Orwell

A classic dystopian novel, “1984” paints a bleak picture of a totalitarian society where individuality is suppressed, and surveillance is omnipresent. Winston Smith, the protagonist, dares to rebel against the oppressive regime, challenging the status quo and risking everything in a fight for freedom.

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

In this dystopian masterpiece, Huxley explores a society that has achieved stability and happiness through strict control and conditioning. As the protagonist, Bernard Marx, questions the price of conformity and sameness, readers are taken on a thought-provoking journey into the consequences of sacrificing individuality for societal harmony.

13. Drama Books

Books within this genre typically contain conflict, tension, and intense emotions. They revolve around a central story that involves characters facing challenges and obstacles and making important decisions that impact their lives. Drama books can come in many forms, including plays, novels, screenplays, and biographies.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

This classic novel takes you back to the Jazz Age in New York City. The story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and his obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan. Filled with love, jealousy, and tragedy, this timeless tale will keep you on the edge of your seat.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Set in the racially charged atmosphere of the American South, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel explores themes of morality, justice, and compassion through the eyes of young Scout Finch. A powerful and thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impact.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

This gripping novel explores into the complex relationship between two friends against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan. The story follows Amir and Hassan as they navigate loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. A compelling and emotional journey that will tug at your heartstrings.

14. Western Books

Western books refer to literature set in the American West or focus on the western frontier and ‘cowboy’ culture. This genre has stories of cowboys, outlaws, frontier life, and the settling of the American West.

Frontier enthusiasts and book lovers alike can commence on a literary adventure with these three best Western books that are sure to captivate and elevate your reading experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic Western tales or looking to discover new authors, these books offer a glimpse into the rugged landscapes, daring adventures, and rich history of the American West.

Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry

This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the epic journey of two former Texas Rangers, Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call, as they drive a cattle herd from Texas to Montana. Filled with rich character development, vivid descriptions of the frontier, and a powerful narrative, Lonesome Dove is a must-read for any Western enthusiast.

Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy

A dark and haunting masterpiece, Blood Meridian transports readers to the violent and lawless landscape of the mid-19th century American Southwest. The novel follows a young runaway known only as “the Kid” as he joins a group of scalp hunters led by the enigmatic and brutal Judge Holden. McCarthy’s poetic prose and unflinching portrayal of the West’s brutality make Blood Meridian a challenging but rewarding read.

Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey

Considered one of the greatest Western novels of all time, Riders of the Purple Sage tells the story of Jane Withersteen, a wealthy and independent woman who defies the oppressive social norms of her time. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Utah desert, the novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for justice in a harsh and unforgiving land.

15. Religious Books

These books contain information, teachings, beliefs, and practices related to a particular religion. Religious books may feature sacred texts, scriptures, holy books, hymns, prayers, commentaries, and biographies of religious leaders. Examples of religious books have the Bible, Quran, Torah, Book of Mormon, and Bhagavad Gita. These books are holy and essential to the faithful of each religion and a source of guidance and inspiration in their daily lives.

There’s a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to be found in religious texts from various traditions around the world. For those seeking spiritual enlightenment and guidance, exploring these sacred writings can offer profound insights and perspectives on life, faith, and the universe. Here are three of the best religious books that can help you discover divine wisdom:

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is written in Arabic and is organized into chapters, or surahs, that cover a wide range of topics including faith, prayer, morality, and social justice. The Quran is considered a comprehensive guide for Muslims on how to live a righteous and fulfilling life, encouraging compassion, humility, and devotion to God.

The Bible is one of the most widely read and studied religious texts in the world, revered by Christians as the word of God. It is divided into two main sections, the Old Testament and the New Testament, which contain a collection of stories, teachings, and prophecies that form the foundation of the Christian faith. The Bible offers guidance on morality, ethics, and the nature of God, emphasizing love, compassion, and forgiveness as central values.

The Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu scripture that forms part of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. It is a dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer, offering spiritual guidance and wisdom on duty, righteousness, and the nature of reality. The Bhagavad Gita explores complex philosophical concepts such as karma, dharma, and selflessness, urging readers to strive for self-improvement and spiritual growth.

16. Poetry Books

These are collections of poems by a single poet or multiple poets. They are published as standalone books or as part of an anthology. The poems can have various styles and themes, including love, nature, loss, and social issues. Poetry books are used to express emotions and inspire other writers.

It’s no secret that poetry has the power to move us, inspire us, and transport us to different worlds with just a few carefully chosen words. For poetry enthusiasts and collectors, building a library of the best poetry books is a lifelong pursuit. To help you navigate the vast sea of poetic works out there, we have curated a list of the top 3 best poetry books that deserve a place in your collection.

The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot

This iconic poem is considered one of the most important works of modernist poetry. With its fragmented structure and allusions to various myths and cultures, “The Waste Land” is a challenging but rewarding read that examines into themes of disillusionment, decay, and redemption.

Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman

Whitman’s epic collection of poems celebrates the beauty of the American landscape, the diversity of its people, and the complexities of the human experience. “Leaves of Grass” is a sprawling, lyrical work that continues to resonate with readers today.

The Collected Poems of Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath’s powerful and confessional poetry is a must-have for any collection. Her raw, emotionally charged verse explores themes of mental illness, femininity, and the struggle for identity. Plath’s poignant words continue to captivate readers with their intensity and honesty.

17. Classic Books

Classic books are literary works widely known for having lasting significance and value because they embody universal themes or timeless human involvement. Examples of classic books include Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, and The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. These Classic books are studied in schools and universities and are considered essential works.

This beloved novel follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates issues of marriage, class, and love in 19th-century England. Austen’s sharp wit and keen observations of society make this book a timeless masterpiece.

Set in the racially charged atmosphere of the American South, this novel tells the story of Scout Finch and her father, Atticus, as they confront issues of racism and prejudice. A poignant and powerful tale that continues to resonate with readers today.

A chilling dystopian novel that explores the dangers of totalitarianism and government surveillance. Orwell’s vision of a society controlled by Big Brother remains eerily relevant in today’s world of increasing technology and government intrusions.

18. Adventure Books

Adventure books are a genre of literature that feature exciting and dangerous journeys involving heroes facing challenges, overcoming obstacles, and battling against enemies. They usually have elements of secret, hazard, and discovery and concern a hunt for some treasure, knowledge, or power. Adventure books can be set in various settings, from historical times and mythical worlds to the present day and beyond. They are popular among readers of all ages and include themes of bravery, perseverance, and the triumph of good over evil.

The Call of the Wild by Jack London

This classic novel follows the story of Buck, a domestic dog stolen from his home and sold into the harsh life of an Alaskan sled dog. As Buck struggles to survive in the unforgiving wilderness, he must tap into his primal instincts to answer the call of the wild. Jack London’s vivid descriptions of the Alaskan landscape and Buck’s transformation make this a gripping adventure tale.

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Based on a true story, this book recounts the journey of Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives up his possessions and commences on a solo adventure into the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer explores themes of self-discovery, nature, and the ultimate price of adventure in this compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Follow the hobbit Bilbo Baggins as he joins a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters trolls, goblins, and other fantastical creatures, testing his courage and resourcefulness. J.R.R. Tolkien’s richly imagined world and epic storytelling make this a timeless adventure classic.

19. Military Books

Military books are about various aspects of the military, including history, strategy, tactics, weapons, and biographies of military leaders. These books can cover different periods and conflicts, such as World War I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and modern conflicts. These also provide insight into the experiences of soldiers and their families and the broader impact of war on society. They are written by military experts, veterans, and historians and can be used as educational resources or entertainment.

Military enthusiasts and history buffs alike can look into the rich world of military literature with these top picks of military books that are bound to command attention. From strategic warfare to personal accounts of courage and heroism, these books offer a deep insight into the world of the military.

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose

One of the top picks is “Band of Brothers” by Stephen E. Ambrose. This book follows the true story of Easy Company, the 506th Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, from their rigorous training in Georgia to the D-Day invasion of Normandy and beyond. “Band of Brothers” offers a gripping account of the camaraderie, sacrifices, and triumphs of the men of Easy Company during World War II.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Another must-read military book is “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu. This ancient Chinese military treatise is a timeless classic that explores the strategies and tactics of warfare. Sun Tzu’s teachings on leadership, strategy, and the art of war have influenced military leaders and strategists for centuries, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in military history and strategy.

Black Hawk Down by Mark Bowden

For a more modern take on military warfare, “Black Hawk Down” by Mark Bowden is a riveting account of the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. The book chronicles the harrowing true story of a U.S. Special Forces operation gone wrong in Somalia, where a routine mission turned into a desperate fight for survival. “Black Hawk Down” offers a chilling and gripping portrayal of modern combat and the sacrifices made by the soldiers involved.

20. Romance Suspense Books

Romance Suspense books are novels that combine elements of both the romance and suspense genres. These books, naturally, have a strong romantic storyline woven into an enthralling plot that keeps readers on edge of their seats. The protagonist is a strong and determined individual who must navigate an unsafe or threatening situation while falling in love or making a relationship work. Romance Suspense books contain furtive, criminality, risk, and intense emotion and keep readers engaged throughout.

There’s nothing quite like plunging into a book that combines the heart-pounding excitement of a suspenseful thriller with the swoon-worthy romance of a love story. If you’re a fan of the romance suspense genre, you’re in luck because we’ve rounded up three must-read books that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also tugging at your heartstrings.

One of the most popular and beloved books in the romance suspense genre, “Gone Girl” tells the story of Nick and Amy Dunne, a couple whose marriage takes a dark and twisted turn when Amy goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary. As the media frenzy and police investigation unfold, secrets and lies are revealed that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its gripping plot twists and complex characters, “Gone Girl” is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers with a touch of romance.

Another riveting read in the romance suspense genre, “The Girl on the Train” follows the story of Rachel, a woman who becomes entangled in a missing persons case after witnessing something shocking from the train window during her daily commute. As Rachel becomes more involved in the investigation, she begins to uncover dark truths about the people around her, including her ex-husband and his new wife. With its unreliable narrator and intricate plot twists, “The Girl on the Train” is a gripping and intense read that will keep you guessing until the final page.

While technically classified as a mystery novel, “Big Little Lies” is a must-read for fans of romance suspense due to its compelling characters and intricate relationships. The story follows three women – Madeline, Celeste, and Jane – whose seemingly perfect lives unravel in the aftermath of a tragic school event. As secrets are revealed and tensions rise, the women must confront their own demons and face the consequences of their actions. With its blend of suspense, drama, and romance, “Big Little Lies” is a captivating read that investigates deep into the complexities of human relationships.

21. Inspirational Books

Inspirational books motivate and encourage readers to achieve their goals and improve their lives. Some famous examples include The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey.

Most people look to books for inspiration and motivation to transform their mindset. If you are seeking some guidance and motivation to shift your mindset, here are the top 3 best inspirational books that can help you on your journey:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel

This book is a modern spiritual classic that emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. Tolle teaches readers how to let go of past regrets and future anxieties by focusing on the now. By practicing mindfulness and being present, readers can transform their mindset and find inner peace.

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

In this book, Dweck explores the concept of mindset and how it influences our beliefs and attitudes towards success and failure. She introduces the idea of a growth mindset, where individuals believe that their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. By adopting a growth mindset, readers can overcome challenges and obstacles with resilience and determination.

“You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” by Jen Sincero

Sincero’s book is a no-nonsense guide to embracing your inner badass and creating the life you desire. Through humor and insight, she motivates readers to let go of self-doubt and fear, and to tap into their full potential. By empowering readers to make positive changes in their mindset and behaviors, Sincero inspires transformation and personal growth.

22. Urban Fantasy Books

Urban Fantasy books are a subgenre of fantasy fiction, set in modern-day cities, featuring supernatural elements such as magic, legendary creatures, and paranormal activity. The setting is usually a recognizable cityscape with a fantastical twist, such as hidden supernatural communities or magical beings living among the general population.

Over the years, urban fantasy has gained immense popularity among readers who enjoy the perfect blend of magic and modern-day settings. If you’re looking to explore this exciting genre, here are three masterful selections that deserve a spot on your bookshelf.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

This book is the perfect introduction to the Shadowhunter world, where humans coexist with demons, vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings. The story follows Clary Fray, who discovers her hidden powers and must navigate a dangerous world to save her mother. With a mix of action, romance, and intricate world-building, City of Bones is a gripping read that will leave you wanting more.

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman is renowned for his unique storytelling, and Neverwhere is a prime example of his brilliance. The novel follows Richard Mayhew, a regular Londoner who stumbles into the dark and mysterious world of London Below. Filled with eccentric characters, fantastical creatures, and a captivating plot, Neverwhere is a must-read for any urban fantasy enthusiast.

Storm Front by Jim Butcher

The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher is a staple in the urban fantasy genre, and Storm Front is the first book that kicks off this thrilling series. Meet Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator who solves supernatural crimes in modern-day Chicago. With a perfect mix of magic, mystery, and wit, Storm Front will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

23. Fantasy Romance Books

Fantasy Romance books are a sub-genre of fantasy fiction that sorts romantic relationships as a central theme. They are stories that blend elements of magic, mythical creatures, and mythical worlds with romance, love, and relationship drama. These books embrace a vital fantasy element, such as dragons, elves, fairies, or magic spells, and typically revolve around a central romance between two main characters.

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

First on the list is “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas. This book follows the journey of Feyre, a huntress who is taken to the faerie lands as punishment for killing a wolf in the woods. As Feyre navigates the treacherous faerie court, she discovers a world of danger, intrigue, and forbidden romance. With its rich world-building and complex characters, “A Court of Thorns and Roses” will sweep you off your feet and leave you yearning for more.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

Next up is “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” by Laini Taylor. This novel tells the story of Karou, a young art student living in Prague who is caught in the middle of an ancient war between angels and demons. Karou’s mysterious past and her connection to the enigmatic angel, Akiva, set the stage for a forbidden love that spans across worlds. With its lyrical prose and imaginative storytelling, “Daughter of Smoke and Bone” will transport you to a world where magic and romance collide in unexpected ways.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

Lastly, we have “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black. This dark and twisted tale follows Jude, a mortal girl living in the Faerie Court, where she must navigate the treacherous politics of the faerie world while grappling with her growing feelings for the cruel yet magnetic Prince Cardan. Filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and sizzling tension, “The Cruel Prince” will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

24. Psychological Thriller Books

Psychological thriller books deal with the characters’ minds and emotions, exploring the deepest fears and desires that drive them. These books focus on the inner workings of the human mind and the psychological forces that influence human behavior.

Thriller enthusiasts, prepare to be captivated by the gripping narratives of the top 3 psychological thriller books that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page.

This critically acclaimed bestseller follows the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne on her fifth wedding anniversary. As the search for her intensifies, dark secrets and twisted motives unravel, leaving readers questioning the truth and the motives of each character. Flynn’s expert storytelling and complex characters make “Gone Girl” a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.

In this riveting novel, Rachel Watson takes the same train every day, observing a perfect couple from her window. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Hawkins masterfully weaves a tale of unreliable narrators and shocking twists that will leave readers guessing until the final reveal.

Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Another masterpiece by Gillian Flynn, “Sharp Objects” follows journalist Camille Preaker as she returns to her hometown to cover a series of murders. As she investigates deeper into the case, Camille must confront her own troubled past and unravel the dark secrets that haunt her family. Flynn’s atmospheric writing and complex characters create a chilling and immersive reading experience that will leave you breathless.

25. Graphic Novel

Graphic novels are comic books that tell a story through illustrations and text. They attribute complex characters, themes, and storylines, ranging from fiction to non-fiction. Graphic novels can be standalone books or part of a series and are popular with adults and children alike. They are seen as a unique form of storytelling that combines the visual appeal of comic books with the literary depth of novels.

Maus by Art Spiegelman

This Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel is a gripping account of the Holocaust, depicting the author’s father’s experiences as a Polish Jew during World War II. The use of anthropomorphic characters, with Jews portrayed as mice and Nazis as cats, adds a unique and thought-provoking layer to the narrative. “Maus” is a powerful and moving exploration of history, trauma, and resilience that is sure to leave a lasting impact on readers.

Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons

Considered a seminal work in the world of graphic novels, “Watchmen” is a complex and multi-layered deconstruction of the superhero genre. Set in an alternate reality where masked vigilantes have altered the course of history, the story follows a group of retired heroes investigating the murder of one of their own. With its intricate plot, morally ambiguous characters, and philosophical themes, “Watchmen” is a must-read for anyone interested in the darker side of superhero storytelling.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

This autobiographical graphic novel offers a poignant and personal perspective on the Iranian Revolution and its aftermath. Through stark black-and-white illustrations, Satrapi recounts her childhood in Iran, her experiences living under the oppressive regime, and her struggles with identity and freedom. “Persepolis” is a powerful coming-of-age story that provides a moving portrayal of resilience, family, and cultural upheaval.

26. Horror Romance Books

These books are part of the fiction genre, combining horror and romance elements. These books point to a romantic relationship between the protagonist and the love interest but also contain scary and dynamic elements such as supernatural creatures, haunted places, and other dark themes. The horror and unsureness elements add tension to the romantic relationship, creating an exciting and eerie reading experience.

The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein by Kiersten White

This gripping retelling of Mary Shelley’s classic “Frankenstein” introduces readers to Elizabeth Lavenza, a young woman rescued from a cruel fate by Victor Frankenstein. As their relationship deepens, Elizabeth discovers the dark secrets Victor harbors, leading her down a terrifying path of obsession and madness. White expertly weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and horror in this spellbinding novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

In this supernatural romance, ghost hunter Cas Lowood finds himself drawn to Anna, a vengeful spirit with a tragic past. As Cas researchs deeper into Anna’s story, he discovers a connection that defies the boundaries between the living and the dead. Blake’s atmospheric writing and haunting imagery create a chilling backdrop for the budding romance between Cas and Anna, making this book a must-read for fans of ghostly love stories tinged with horror.

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

In a world where vampires lurk in the shadows, Tana lives on the outskirts of society, trying to protect her family from the dangers that surround them. When Tana wakes up after a party to find herself surrounded by corpses and a mysterious vampire captive, she commences on a perilous journey to the heart of Coldtown, a quarantine for vampires and humans alike. Black’s blend of romance, horror, and suspense keeps readers enthralled as Tana navigates a treacherous world where love and death go hand in hand.

27. Horror Thriller Books

This literary genre combines horror and thriller elements to create a gripping and frightening reading journey. These books comprise elements of terror, fear, and gore, as well as elements of a typical thriller, such as a high-stakes plot, intense pacing, and cliffhanger endings.

Many readers seek out the thrill and excitement that comes with a good horror thriller book. If you are one of these readers, look no further as we have compiled a list of three must-read best horror thriller books that will have you on the edge of your seat.

The first book on our list is “The Shining” by Stephen King. This classic horror novel follows the story of Jack Torrance, who becomes the winter caretaker of the Overlook Hotel. As the isolation of the hotel begins to take its toll on Jack and his family, supernatural forces come into play, leading to a terrifying climax. Stephen King’s masterful writing and his ability to create a sense of dread make “The Shining” a must-read for any horror fan.

Bird Box by Josh Malerman

Next, we have “Bird Box” by Josh Malerman. In this apocalyptic thriller, the world is plagued by mysterious creatures that drive anyone who sees them to madness and death. To survive, people must navigate the world blindfolded. The story follows Malorie, a young mother trying to protect her children as they journey blindfolded to safety. “Bird Box” is a gripping and suspenseful read that will leave you questioning what you would do in a similar situation.

The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey

Lastly, we recommend “The Girl with All the Gifts” by M.R. Carey. This unique take on the zombie genre follows Melanie, a young girl with extraordinary abilities living in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by “hungries,” zombie-like creatures. As Melanie and a group of survivors commence on a dangerous journey, they uncover dark secrets about the origins of the hungries and humanity’s fight for survival. “The Girl with All the Gifts” offers a fresh perspective on the zombie genre and will keep you hooked until the very end.

28. Cookbooks Books

Cookbooks contain recipes and cooking instructions for various dishes, meals, and cuisines. They may also contain cooking techniques, kitchen tools, and food storage tips. Cookbooks may focus on specific types of cuisine or dietary needs, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb, or they may cover various recipes from various cuisines.

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat

This award-winning cookbook is a must-have for anyone looking to understand the fundamental elements of good cooking. Samin Nosrat breaks down the importants of cooking into four elements – salt, fat, acid, and heat – and explains how mastering these can transform your dishes. With beautiful illustrations and engaging writing, this cookbook will not only teach you recipes but also the science behind them.

The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer

A classic in the world of cookbooks, “The Joy of Cooking” has been a go-to resource for home cooks for generations. With over 4,000 recipes ranging from traditional to contemporary, this comprehensive cookbook covers everything from basic cooking techniques to advanced skills. Whether you’re looking to bake a cake or roast a turkey, this cookbook has got you covered with detailed instructions and tips.

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan

If Italian cuisine is your passion, then this cookbook is a must-have for your collection. Marcella Hazan, known as the godmother of Italian cooking in America, brings together her most famous recipes in this comprehensive guide to classic Italian cooking. From pasta dishes to risottos and desserts, this cookbook will transport you to the heart of Italy with its authentic and delicious recipes.

29. Humor Books

Humor books are a genre of literature that aims to entertain and make readers laugh by using humor, satire, wit, and irony. These books can range from comedic fiction to memoirs, collections of jokes, parodies, and comedic essays. These books appeal to people’s sense of humor, making them popular among audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

With the daily stress and challenges that come our way, sometimes all we need is a good laugh to lift our spirits. Humor books are a great way to escape reality for a bit and indulge in some light-hearted, feel-good content. Here are three of the best humor books that are guaranteed to make you smile:

Bossypants by Tina Fey

Tina Fey, the renowned comedian, writer, and actress, gives readers a glimpse into her life and career in this hilarious memoir. “Bossypants” is filled with Fey’s trademark wit and humor as she shares anecdotes from her time on Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, and more. With relatable stories and laugh-out-loud moments, this book is sure to brighten your day.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling, known for her roles in The Office and The Mindy Project, offers a candid and funny perspective on life in her debut book. “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” covers a range of topics, from friendships to Hollywood, with Kaling’s signature charm and humor. Readers will find themselves nodding along and chuckling at her witty observations and anecdotes.

Let’s Pretend This Never Happened: (A Mostly True Memoir) by Jenny Lawson

Jenny Lawson, also known as The Bloggess, takes readers on a hilarious journey through her unconventional life in this memoir. “Let’s Pretend This Never Happened” is a collection of absurd and side-splitting stories that will have you laughing out loud. Lawson’s unique humor and quirky storytelling make this book a delightful and uplifting read.

30. Non-Fiction Books

Non-fiction books are written based on factual information and actual events. They are not fictional stories or imaginative works but provide information and educate the reader on a specific topic or subject. Non-fiction books cover many topics, including history, science, politics, self-help, biographies, memoirs, and many others.

Investing in your knowledge and personal growth is just as important as investing in financial assets. One way to do this is by reading non-fiction books that can provide valuable insights, information, and inspiration. If you’re looking to enrich your mind and expand your horizons, here are three of the best non-fiction books worth investing in

The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

This groundbreaking book explores the science behind habits and how they can be changed to transform your life. Duhigg explores into the psychology of habit formation and provides practical strategies for breaking bad habits and building positive ones. Whether you want to improve your productivity, health, or relationships, “The Power of Habit” offers valuable wisdom that can help you achieve lasting change.

Educated by Tara Westover

This compelling memoir chronicles Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict, isolated family in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. “Educated” is a powerful testament to the importance of education, resilience, and self-discovery. Westover’s story is both inspiring and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

In this thought-provoking book, Harari traces the history of Homo sapiens from ancient times to the present day, exploring how humans have evolved and shaped the world around them. “Sapiens” offers a sweeping overview of anthropology, biology, and history, challenging readers to reconsider their perceptions of humanity and civilization. This book is a fascinating journey through the past, present, and future of our species, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf.

31. Self-Help Books

Self-help books help individuals improve their lives, such as their relationships, health, finances, career, and overall well-being. They contain advice, tips, and strategies for personal growth and development by experts in various fields, such as psychologists, life coaches, and motivational speakers.

Many individuals seek self-help books as a way to initiate on a journey of personal growth and transformation. These books can provide valuable insights, practical tools, and inspirational stories that can help readers navigate the challenges of life and achieve their full potential. If you are looking to kickstart your own journey towards positive transformation, here are three self-help books that come highly recommended:

One of the most popular self-help books of our time, “The Power of Now” explores the concept of mindfulness and living in the present moment. Eckhart Tolle’s teachings invite readers to let go of the past and future, and instead focus on the now. By learning to quiet the constant chatter of the mind and fully experiencing the present moment, readers can find peace, joy, and a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them.

Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

In “Daring Greatly,” Brené Brown researchs into the power of vulnerability and how embracing our imperfections can lead to a more fulfilling and wholehearted life. Brown’s research shows that by leaning into vulnerability rather than shying away from it, we can build stronger connections with others, foster creativity and innovation, and live with a greater sense of courage and authenticity. This book offers valuable insights and practical strategies for daring greatly and stepping into our true selves.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Stephen Covey’s classic book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” outlines a holistic approach to personal and professional effectiveness. Covey’s timeless principles, such as being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, and seeking win-win solutions, provide a roadmap for personal growth and success. By cultivating these seven habits, readers can enhance their relationships, achieve their goals, and lead a more purposeful and balanced life.

32. LGBTQ+ Books

LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) books refer to literary works that focus on the experiences and perspectives of individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. These books may have themes such as coming out, self-discovery, relationships, family dynamics, and social issues faced by LGBTQ individuals. LGBTQ books can be fiction or non-fiction and may take the form of memoirs, novels, short stories, poetry, and graphic novels.

Narrative in literature plays a crucial role in representing diverse voices and experiences. LGBTQ+ narratives have been gaining recognition and prominence in recent years, challenging societal norms and stereotypes. Here are three must-read LGBTQ+ books that offer inspiring stories and perspectives:

Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman

This novel tells the poignant story of a summer romance between Elio, a young man, and Oliver, a visiting scholar. Set in Italy, the book explores themes of love, desire, and self-discovery. The beautiful prose and deeply emotional narrative make “Call Me by Your Name” a timeless classic in LGBTQ+ literature.

Transgender History: The Roots of Today’s Revolution by Susan Stryker

This non-fiction book provides a comprehensive overview of the transgender rights movement in the United States. Stryker probes into the history of gender identity and activism, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of transgender individuals throughout the years. “Transgender History” is a vital read for anyone looking to understand and support the transgender community.

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel

In this graphic memoir, Bechdel reflects on her complex relationship with her father and her own journey of self-acceptance as a lesbian woman. Through poignant illustrations and candid storytelling, Bechdel explores themes of family dynamics, queer identity, and personal growth. “Fun Home” has received critical acclaim for its raw honesty and emotional depth.

33. Sci-Technology Books

Sci-Technology books deal with scientific and technological advancements in different fields. Such as medicine, engineering, computer science, physics, chemistry, etc. These books provide an in-depth understanding of science and technology’s various theories, principles, and applications. These books help readers stay updated with the latest advancements in these fields.

You are eager to examine the world of cutting-edge science and technology, but where do you start? Look no further than these three highly recommended books that offer a fascinating glimpse into the latest advancements and innovations shaping our future.

The Future Is Faster Than You Think by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler

This book explores the concept of exponential growth in technology and its impact on various industries. From artificial intelligence and robotics to biotechnology and virtual reality, Diamandis and Kotler shed light on how these technologies are converging to revolutionize our world. Through captivating storytelling and insightful analysis, they paint a vivid picture of the possibilities that lie ahead and how we can harness the power of innovation to create a brighter future.

Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max Tegmark

In this thought-provoking book, Tegmark explores the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on humanity and society. He examines into the ethical, moral, and existential questions raised by the rapid advancements in AI technology and proposes possible paths forward to ensure a beneficial coexistence between humans and intelligent machines. Drawing on cutting-edge research and real-world examples, Tegmark offers a balanced perspective on the potential risks and rewards of a future dominated by AI.

The Fourth Age: Smart Robots, Conscious Computers, and the Future of Humanity by Byron Reese

Reese takes readers on a journey through the history of technological evolution, from the invention of the wheel to the rise of artificial intelligence. He argues that we are entering a new era, dubbed the “Fourth Age,” characterized by smart robots and conscious computers that will profoundly transform every aspect of our lives. Through engaging storytelling and clear explanations, Reese explores the possibilities of this future world and challenges readers to consider the implications of these advancements on our identity, work, and relationships.

34. Art – Photography Books

These books focus on the art form of photography. These books showcase the works of photographers and discuss the techniques and styles used in photography. They can have collections of photographs, essays, interviews, and other materials that explore the artistic aspects of photography.

The Photographer’s Eye by Michael Freeman

This classic photography book is a must-have for any aspiring photographer looking to improve their composition and visual storytelling skills. Michael Freeman breaks down the elements of a great photograph, such as light, shape, and color, and provides practical tips on how to see and capture compelling images. “The Photographer’s Eye” will not only inspire you but also help you develop a critical eye for composition in your own photography.

Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon

For artists looking to ignite their creativity and break out of creative ruts, “Steal Like an Artist” is the perfect read. Austin Kleon challenges the traditional idea of originality and encourages artists to embrace influences, experiment, and steal ideas ethically. This book is a refreshing take on creativity and is filled with practical advice on how to unlock your artistic potential and find your unique voice.

Color and Light: A Guide for the Realist Painter by James Gurney

If you are a painter looking to master the use of color and light in your artwork, “Color and Light” is the ultimate guide for you. James Gurney, a renowned artist and illustrator, provides in-depth insights into how color and light work in the real world and how you can effectively apply these principles to your paintings. This book is filled with beautiful illustrations, practical exercises, and valuable techniques that will help you take your painting skills to the next level.

35. Suspense Books

This is a genre of fiction that focuses on instilling feelings of tension and uncertainty in the reader. They frequently encompass secrecies, crimes, and characters in dangerous situations, with plot twists. These cliffhangers keep the reader on edge until the end. The goal of suspense books is to engage the reader emotionally, keeping them on the edge of their seat as they try to figure out what will happen next.

Over recent years, the genre of suspense books has seen a surge in popularity, captivating readers with their thrilling plots, unexpected twists, and heart-pounding narratives. If you’re a fan of gripping suspense stories that keep you on the edge of your seat, here are three top picks for the best suspense books you won’t be able to put down.

A modern classic in the suspense genre, “Gone Girl” tells the story of Nick and Amy Dunne, a couple whose marriage takes a dark and twisted turn when Amy goes missing on their fifth wedding anniversary. Told from alternating perspectives, the novel investigates deep into the complexities of relationships, deception, and manipulation, keeping readers guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot and unforgettable characters, “Gone Girl” is a must-read for any fan of suspense fiction.

A gripping psychological thriller, “The Girl on the Train” follows the story of Rachel, a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation after witnessing something shocking during her daily train commute. As Rachel investigates deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dark secrets and lies that threaten to unravel everything she thought she knew. With its unreliable narrator and taut, suspenseful pacing, “The Girl on the Train” is sure to keep you guessing until the final pages.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

In this chilling debut novel, Alicia Berenson, a talented painter, is accused of murdering her husband and has not spoken a word since the crime. Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence and investigates into her past in search of answers. As Theo gets closer to the heart of the mystery, he uncovers shocking revelations that will leave readers stunned. With its cleverly crafted plot and unexpected twists, “The Silent Patient” is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling.

This ultimate list of genres is a comprehensive guide to the rich and diverse world of books. With 35 popular genres explained in detail, readers can delve into the intricacies of each genre. Whether you’re a romance, science fiction, or mystery fan, there’s something for everyone on this definitive list. So, pick up a genre today and begin your writing journey.

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Exploring the World of Literature: A Comprehensive List of Book Genres

By: Author ESLBUZZ

Posted on Last updated: September 8, 2023

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Are you an avid reader looking to expand your literary horizons? Or perhaps you’re a writer seeking to explore new genres and styles? Whatever your reason may be, understanding the different book genres is crucial in the world of literature. From romance to science fiction, each genre has its own unique characteristics that make it stand out. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of book genres, along with brief descriptions and examples of each.

List of Book Genres

Understanding Book Genres

What are book genres.

Book genres are categories that books can be classified into based on their content, style, and form. They are used to help readers identify and select books that match their interests and preferences. There are many different book genres, ranging from fiction to nonfiction, and each genre has its own unique characteristics.

Importance of Book Genres

Understanding book genres is important for both readers and writers. For readers, it helps them find books that they are likely to enjoy and avoid books that they may not be interested in. For writers, it helps them understand the expectations of their readers and tailor their writing to meet those expectations.

Here are some of the most popular book genres and their characteristics:


Fiction	Imaginative storytelling, often with made-up characters and settings.
Nonfiction	Based on real-life events and facts, often written in a more informative style.
Romance	Focuses on romantic relationships and often has a happy ending.
Mystery	Involves solving a crime or puzzle, often with a twist ending.
Science Fiction	Set in the future or in a different world, often involving advanced technology or space travel.
Fantasy	Involves magic or supernatural elements and often takes place in a fictional world.
Horror	Intended to scare or unsettle the reader, often involving supernatural or paranormal elements.

List of Book Genres: Popular Ones

If you’re an avid reader or a writer, you know that there are countless book genres to choose from. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most popular book genres and what they entail.

Fiction is a genre of literature that involves imaginary characters, events, and worlds. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Historical Fiction: A fictional story set in a historical time period.
Romance: A story that revolves around a romantic relationship.
Fantasy: A story set in a world that is different from our own, often involving magic or supernatural elements.
Science Fiction: A story that involves futuristic or scientific elements.
Horror: A story that aims to scare the reader.
Thriller: A story that is fast-paced and suspenseful.

Non-Fiction

Non-fiction is a genre of literature that involves real people, events, and facts. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Biography: A story about someone’s life, written by someone else.
Autobiography: A story about someone’s life, written by themselves.
Memoir: A personal account of a specific time period or event in someone’s life.
History: A factual account of past events.
Self-Help: A book that aims to help the reader improve their life in some way.

Mystery is a genre of literature that involves solving a crime or puzzle. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Detective: A story that revolves around a detective solving a crime.
Cozy: A mystery story that is light-hearted and often involves an amateur detective.
Thriller: A fast-paced mystery story that is suspenseful.

Romance is a genre of literature that revolves around a romantic relationship. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Historical: A romance story set in a historical time period.
Contemporary: A romance story set in modern times.
Paranormal: A romance story that involves supernatural elements.

Fantasy is a genre of literature that involves imaginary worlds and often involves magic or supernatural elements. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

High Fantasy: A story set in a completely imaginary world.
Urban Fantasy: A story set in a modern world with supernatural elements.
Epic Fantasy: A story that involves a quest or journey.

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that involves a fictional story set in a historical time period. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Medieval: A story set in the Middle Ages.
Regency: A story set in the early 19th century.
World War II: A story set during World War II .

Science Fiction

Science fiction is a genre of literature that involves futuristic or scientific elements. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Space Opera: A story set in space with adventure and romance.
Cyberpunk: A story that involves advanced technology and a dystopian society.
Hard Science Fiction: A story that involves scientific accuracy.

Horror is a genre of literature that aims to scare the reader. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Psychological: A story that involves the human mind and how it can be scary.
Supernatural: A story that involves supernatural elements like ghosts or demons.
Slasher: A story that involves a killer.

Thriller is a genre of literature that is fast-paced and suspenseful. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Legal: A story that involves legal elements like a court case.
Spy: A story that involves espionage and secret agents.

Young Adult

Young adult (YA) is a genre of literature that is aimed at teenagers. It can be broken down into various sub-genres, including:

Contemporary: A story set in modern times.

Lesser-Known Book Genres

As a book lover, you might be familiar with popular genres such as romance, mystery, and science fiction. However, there are many other genres that you might not have explored yet. In this section, we’ll take a look at some lesser-known genres that you might find interesting.

Graphic Novels

Graphic novels are a genre of books that use comic book-style illustrations to tell a story. They’re often associated with superheroes, but graphic novels can cover a wide range of topics, from memoirs to historical fiction. Here are some words you might encounter when reading a graphic novel:


Panel	A single drawing in a comic strip or graphic novel
Balloon	A bubble containing dialogue or narration
Splash page	A full-page illustration that introduces a new scene or chapter
Gutter	The space between two panels

Example sentence: The graphic novel had stunning splash pages that drew me into the story.

Biographies

Biographies are books that tell the life story of a real person. They can be written about anyone, from historical figures to modern-day celebrities. If you’re interested in learning about someone’s life, a biography might be the perfect genre for you. Here are some words you might encounter when reading a biography:


Memoir	A type of autobiography that focuses on a specific period of the author’s life
Anecdote	A short, interesting story about a person
Legacy	What someone leaves behind after they die
Archive	A collection of historical documents or records

Example sentence: The biography was filled with fascinating anecdotes about the author’s childhood.

Travel books are books that focus on a specific location or travel experience. They can be written by travel writers, journalists, or anyone who wants to share their travel experiences. If you’re interested in learning about different cultures and places, a travel book might be the perfect genre for you. Here are some words you might encounter when reading a travel book:


Itinerary	A plan for a trip, including the places you’ll visit and the things you’ll do
Guidebook	A book that provides information about a specific location, including maps and recommendations
Expedition	A journey or trip, often with a specific purpose
Wanderlust	A strong desire to travel and explore the world

Example sentence: The travel book had a detailed itinerary that helped me plan my own trip to the same location.

Self-help books are books that provide advice and guidance on how to improve your life. They can cover a wide range of topics, from relationships to personal finance. If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance, a self-help book might be the perfect genre for you. Here are some words you might encounter when reading a self-help book:


Motivation	The desire or drive to do something
Mindfulness	The practice of being present and aware in the moment
Resilience	The ability to recover from setbacks or challenges
Gratitude	The practice of being thankful and appreciative

Example sentence: The self-help book provided me with the motivation and tools I needed to make positive changes in my life.

Cookbooks are books that provide recipes and cooking instructions. They can be written by professional chefs, home cooks, or anyone who loves to cook. If you’re looking to expand your culinary skills, a cookbook might be the perfect genre for you. Here are some words you might encounter when reading a cookbook:


Ingredient	A food item used in a recipe
Recipe	A set of instructions for preparing a specific dish
Technique	A specific method for cooking or preparing food
Seasoning	A blend of herbs and spices used to flavor food

Example sentence: The cookbook had detailed recipes and techniques that helped me improve my cooking skills.

Poetry is a genre of literature that uses language to evoke emotion and paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. It can cover a wide range of topics and styles, from sonnets to free verse. If you’re looking for a genre that challenges you to think and feel deeply, poetry might be the perfect genre for you. Here are some words you might encounter when reading poetry:


Stanza	A group of lines in a poem, similar to a paragraph in prose
Rhyme	The repetition of sounds at the end of words
Metaphor	A comparison between two things that are not literally alike
Imagery	The use of vivid descriptions to create a mental picture

Example sentence: The poetry collection was filled with beautiful imagery that transported me

Using Book Genres to Improve English Skills

Reading books is a great way to improve your English skills. By exploring different book genres, you can expand your vocabulary, understand context, and improve your writing skills.

Vocabulary Expansion

Reading books from different genres can help you learn new words and phrases. Here are some examples of genres and the types of vocabulary you can learn from them:


Mystery	Clues, suspects, alibi, evidence, deduction
Romance	Love, passion, heartbreak, affection, devotion
Science Fiction	Aliens, technology, time travel, teleportation, dystopia
Fantasy	Magic, dragons, wizards, enchanted, mythical

By reading books from different genres, you can also learn idioms and expressions that are commonly used in English. Here are some examples:


Break a leg	Good luck
Piece of cake	Easy
Hit the nail on the head	Correct
It’s raining cats and dogs	Heavy rain

Understanding Context

Reading books from different genres can also help you understand context. This means that you can learn how to use words and phrases in the right situation. Here are some examples:


Formal	Polite, respectful, professional
Informal	Casual, friendly, relaxed
Academic	Precise, technical, objective
Creative	Imaginative, descriptive, expressive

By understanding context, you can also learn how to use tone and mood in your writing. Here are some examples:


Humorous	Funny, witty, amusing
Serious	Grave, somber, solemn
Romantic	Passionate, loving, affectionate
Suspenseful	Tense, thrilling, exciting

Improving Writing Skills

Reading books from different genres can also help you improve your writing skills. By analyzing the writing style and techniques used by different authors, you can learn how to write effectively. Here are some examples:


Imagery	Descriptive language that appeals to the senses
Metaphor	Comparison of two things without using “like” or “as”
Foreshadowing	Hinting at future events in the story
Symbolism	Use of objects or ideas to represent something else

Throughout this article, we have covered a wide range of book genres, including fiction and non-fiction, as well as sub-genres such as mystery, thriller, horror, romance, and more. We have also provided examples of popular books and authors in each genre, giving readers a starting point for their reading journey.

To further enhance your learning experience, we have included tables of words and phrases commonly used in each genre, along with their meanings. By familiarizing yourself with these words, you can improve your vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the themes and motifs in each genre.

So, whether you prefer the suspense of a thriller or the romance of a love story, there is a book genre out there for everyone. We hope this article has inspired you to explore new genres and authors, and to continue on your journey towards becoming a confident and skilled English language speaker and writer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of book genres?

There are many different types of book genres, including but not limited to:

Non-fiction
Science fiction
Historical fiction
Autobiography
Children’s literature

How many book genres are there?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as new book genres are constantly being created. However, there are many well-established book genres that have been popular for many years.

What are the most popular book genres?

The most popular book genres vary depending on the country and the time period, but some of the most popular book genres include:

What are the benefits of reading different book genres?

Reading different book genres can help you:

Improve your vocabulary
Develop your critical thinking skills
Learn about different cultures and time periods
Expand your knowledge of different subjects
Improve your writing skills

What are the major categories of book genres?

The major categories of book genres include:

Children's literature

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many book genres are there?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the most popular book genres?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the benefits of reading different book genres?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Where can I find a list of book genres?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

There are many websites and books that provide lists of book genres. Some examples include:

Barnes & Noble
LibraryThing

"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the major categories of book genres?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"

Within these categories, there are many different sub-genres that cover a wide range of topics and themes.

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List of Book Genres: 36+ Popular Genres for Writing

There are a ton of book genres and subgenres out there. And if you're an indie author, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the genres you plan to write in. Knowing the major tropes and characteristics of your book genre helps ensure that you'll write a story that meets reader expectations.

So whether you want to write a novel or a non-fiction book, we've got you covered with this in-depth list of book genres.

We'll start with fiction and then cover non-fiction genres after that!

Fiction book genres and their characteristics
Nonfiction book genres and their characteristics
How to find the right genres and keywords quickly and easily

Action & adventure.

Contemporary
Historical Fiction
Magical Realism
Science Fiction
Thriller and Suspense
Young Adult
Short Story
Graphic Novel
What is Speculative Fiction?
What is Genre Fiction?

Art & Photography

Autobiography and Memoirs
Crafts and Hobbies
Family and Parenting
Health and Fitness

Religion & Spirituality

Science & technology.

Politics and Social Sciences
Genre Research Made Easy

Fiction Book Genres

General fiction genres are numerous. In fact, Amazon has over 14,000 categories to choose from! Luckily, we'll only be going over the major ones in this list. Getting your book in the right genres/categories is an extremely important ingredient for the success of the book .

Once you have a good idea of the broad genre(s) that are right for your book, you can then use a software like Publisher Rocket to really dig down. Find the right niche for your book and get tons of keywords to use in your marketing campaigns with Publisher Rocket . More on this at the end of the article. For now, let’s explore fiction genres!

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The action and adventure genre is one that overlaps with a lot of other fiction genres, like thrillers, fantasy, and science fiction. This genre is known for plot-driven novels in which the protagonist is up against a larger-than-life threat. And the hero (almost) always wins in the end. Everything from swashbuckling stories and race-against-the-clock thrillers can be housed under the action and adventure umbrella.

Average Word Count for Action & Adventure Novels: 80,000 to 110,000.

Children's books cover several subsections that are typically divided by age group. These include‌:

Board books – Newborn to three (25 to 200 words)
Picture books – Three to eight years old (250 to 750 words)
Chapter books – Ages seven to nine (5,000 to 20,000 words)
Middle grade books – Eight to twelve years old (20,000 to 60,000 words)

Some even consider young adult novels children's books. But for this article, we have a separate section for the young adult genre. The conventions of these books depend largely on the age range, so it's important to know your audience by knowing which subsection you'll be writing under.

Contemporary fiction doesn't fit neatly into other genres because it usually lacks those things that are common in those genres. Instead of sinister government agents, monsters, or space aliens to contend with, characters in contemporary fiction are up against everyday life in the modern age. Relationships, work conflicts, and professional success are all common issues in these stories, which take place in modern times.

Average Word Count for Contemporary Novels: 70,000 to 90,000.

Dystopian novels bring us a bleak look at the future. Often couched under the larger sci-fi genre, these books explore social and cultural issues, taking them to extremes. The future is dark, but the human spirit often (not always) prevails in these stories. A few well-known examples include 1984 , A Handmaid's Tale , and The Hunger Games .

Average Word Count for Dystopian Novels: 60,000 to 90,000.

Dystopian Writing Tip: You can get really creative with this genre, throwing in elements of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. The most intriguing of these books put forth a unique twist on reasons for the rise of the dystopian society.

Fantasy is among the most popular genres and is home to many other subgenres such as dark, epic, and heroic fantasy. Magic and non-human creatures often play big parts in the stories of this book genre. Some fantasy novels take place in their own unique worlds with their own rules, while others take the world as we know it and add little bits of magic here and there. The Harry Potter books and The Lord of the Rings Trilogy are among the most popular fantasy stories out there.

Average Word Count for Fantasy Novels: 80,000 to 110,000.

Fantasy Writing Tip: Since there’s often a lot to tell the reader about the “rules” of a fantasy world, some writers get bogged down in exposition or world building. And while explaining the world to your reader is important, it’s best to do it piecemeal. Only give the reader what they absolutely must know to understand the action of the story.

The historical fiction genre takes historical events and locations, interweaving a fictional storyline with them. Some of these stories feature real people on the periphery. Others mix imaginary characters with real historical figures to craft a compelling and entertaining story. Although not a book, Forrest Gump is an excellent example of a historical fiction story.

Average Word Count for Historical Novels: 80,000 to 110,000.

Historical Fiction Writing Tip: Readers will notice inconsistencies in this genre. They want to be transported to a different time, so research is highly important in this genre. As they say, the devil is in the details, and any detail that’s inaccurate or takes the reader out of the story is a devil indeed. That said, you don’t want to bog the story down with details, no matter how accurate. It’s a delicate balance to strike!

Almost everyone has heard of the Master of Horror, Stephen King. He's known for excellent horror writing; inspiring fear and dread in his readers. Whether you do this with monsters, paranormal entities, or run-of-the-mill killers doesn't really matter. What matters is that the tension is there throughout the story, building to a crescendo. Horror is one of the few book genres where readers won't be upset if the book doesn't end happily — provided the story is well-written and compelling.

Average Word Count for Horror Novels: 80,000 to 110,000.

Horror Writing Tip: In most horror stories, the stakes are death. It can be the death of the protagonist, a loved one, the whole town, or the entire planet. Anything less than death may disappoint readers and make the story less interesting. However, the risk of insanity may be a viable alternative when done well. Cosmic horror, from the likes of H. P. Lovecraft and his successors, often features characters teetering on the brink of insanity.

Books with LGBTQ+ characters in prominent roles can fall under this genre. While some of these books are romances, they don't have to be. They can be action, fantasy, horror — whatever you want to write. But much of the time, these books are filed under the umbrella category of contemporary fiction.

Average Word Count for LGBTQ+ Novels: 60,000 to 110,000.

Literary fiction is characterized by “serious” subject matter that explores the human condition through a character-driven story. Literary fiction books don't fit well into any other genre and are considered more ‌art than entertainment. There may or may not be a story arc, and a happy ending is not guaranteed. In short, there's no standard formula or well-defined reader expectations for literary novels.

Average Word Count for Literary Novels: 80,000 to 120,000.

Like a good fairy tale, the magical realism genre blends our world with magic — often in a matter-of-fact manner. Birthed by writers from Latin America, this genre now enjoys additions from writers from all over the world. The characters in these stories aren't wowed by furniture that moves on its own or animals that talk — it's all presented as normal. These literary devices are often used to critique societal problems like oppression and imperialism.

Average Word Count for Magical Realism Novels: 60,000 to 80,000.

Mystery is a hugely popular genre that overlaps with multiple genres, like crime fiction and cozy mysteries. Most often, it starts with a murder and ends with the protagonist (often a detective) solving the mystery and capturing or vanquishing the murderer. Also called detective fiction, there's certainly a formula and clear reader expectations in this book genre. If you want to learn from the master, pick up any Agatha Christie novel to see what readers are clamoring for.

Average Word Count for Mystery Novels: 70,000 to 100,000.

Mystery Writing Tip: Most mysteries fall under two major categories: whodunit and howcatchem. The first is all about figuring out who did the crime (don’t forget that multiple people can be guilty). The second is about how to catch the criminal and make sure justice is served.

While horror, fantasy, and romance subgenres can all feature paranormal elements, this genre has certain elements that set it apart. Most often, paranormal books are set in modern times and take place in our world (as opposed to a made-up world, as in fantasy novels). Some stories incorporate paranormal elements as an accepted part of the world, while others feature them as part of a hidden world that the public is unaware of. Most often, these elements include ghosts, magic, vampires, demons, psychics, and telepathy . You’ll often hear this genre called paranormal fantasy or urban fantasy. Richard Kadrey’s Sandman Slim series and Kim Harrison’s Hollows series both provide great examples of paranormal books.

Average Word Count for Paranormal Novels: 60,000 to 90,000.

Romance is a popular book genre that is known for its voracious readers. There are many subgenres under the romance umbrella, including sweet, steamy, and paranormal romance. While many stories have romantic subplots, books in the romance genre have the romantic relationship as the central plot of the story . This is another genre that has clear reader expectations. Namely, the “happily ever after” ending. The details of how you get there and how much steam you have in the story will depend on the subgenre. Lucy Score and Debbie Macomber are two prolific romance authors to read for guidance.

Average Word Count for Romance Novels: 60,000 to 100,000.

Romance Writing Tip: There are many tropes to choose from in the romance genre. A few of the most popular include: enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, forced proximity, billionaire, fake relationship, and marriage of convenience. Romance readers will expect the story beats common with certain tropes!

Science fiction features stories typically set in the future or in an alternative universe where humans share their reality with strange creatures. Other sci-fi stories don’t have any strange creatures and instead explore technological advances and space expiration. Again, there are many subgenres within science fiction. Hard sci-fi readers want to see technology that's technically possible driving a compelling story. Space opera readers don't care so much about whether the technology is possible. Instead, they want a grand adventure that often involves intergalactic battles and happens in many exotic environs.

Average Word Count for Science Fiction Novels: 80,000 to 110,000.

Science Fiction Writing Tip: Like fantasy, it’s important to limit the amount of exposition or “info dumping” before getting into the conflict of the story. Additionally, an internal conflict readers can identify with is paramount to writing a good story. You can explore lofty ideas, but the conflict and stakes should still be clear so readers can invest in the story.

Thriller and suspense stories can have a lot in common with mystery novels. However, they can also be very different. What they all share is increasing tension throughout the story, leading to an exciting showdown between protagonist and antagonist. They generally have plot twists at every turn and are more plot-driven than character-driven. Lots of different subgenres are included in thriller and suspense. John Grisham is a master of the legal thriller while James Patterson is known for his suspense novels, just to name a couple.

Average Word Count for Thriller and Suspense Novels: 70,000 to 100,000.

Thriller and Suspense Writing Tip: Since this is a plot-driven genre, you may choose not to have a clear character arc for your protagonist. The most famous example of this type of story can be found in the Jack Reacher novels. Reacher is largely the same at the beginning of each story as he is at the end. His is an external conflict (i.e. seeking justice and/or vengeance), rather than an internal one. And for these types of thriller books, it works well.

Also known as YA fiction, young adult novels often have characters the same age as the reader group (12 to 18). The journey in these novels typically involves the trials and tribulations of becoming an adult. There are young adult books that also figure into numerous fiction genres, including contemporary, literary, romance, and young adult science fiction. The Fault in Our Stars , The Hunger Games , and The Catcher in the Rye are all examples of young adult novels.

Average Word Count for Young Adult Novels: 45,000 to 80,000.

Some readers just want bite-sized reads instead of entire books. This is where the short story genre comes in. Stories in this genre are usually between 1,000 and 10,00 words and can fit into any of the other categories on this list. Most short stories are sold as themed collections, either written by one author or several. However, you can also write and sell single short stories on Amazon, although the market isn't great unless you're a well-known author already.

Average Word Count for Short Story Collections: 60,000 to 90,000.

Like short stories, graphic novels can also be a part of many other genres. It's the form that's important with these books. They come with artwork, so it's like reading a long comic book. But they don't have to feature superheroes. Just look at the autobiographical Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or the historical fiction graphic novel From Hell by Alan Moore.

Average Word Count for Graphic Novels: 30,000 to 70,000.

In discussions about fiction writing, you may have heard the term speculative fiction. While technically an umbrella genre of sorts, it encompasses many other genres on this list.

In short, speculative fiction is fiction that contains some fantastical elements that don't exist in our world. Often called “what-if” stories, the main genres of speculative fiction include fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and superhero novels. Essentially, it's the opposite of “realistic fiction,” thanks to one or more elements that don't exist or aren't possible in our reality.

Genre fiction is another term that's thrown around at writing conferences and among authors. To complicate things, speculative fiction and genre fiction have a lot of overlap.

Essentially, genre fiction describes novels written to fit the tropes, archetypes, and general structure of a specific genre. This is in contrast to literary and contemporary fiction, where there aren't any clear audience expectations. Well-known genre fiction categories include romance, crime fiction, fantasy, horror, science fiction, mystery, thrillers, and suspense.

For indie authors, it's much easier to break into the business and see book sales writing genre or speculative fiction than it is writing literary fiction. This is because the audiences in these genres are well defined, making marketing much easier. If you're writing a literary novel, it may be good to find a literary agent who is interested in your novel first.

Nonfiction Genres

Nonfiction genres are often easier to figure out. But, like fiction genres, there can be some significant overlap. Luckily, Amazon allows you to change categories after your book is published if you want to. But before you can do that, you’ll need to know what the best genres are for your nonfiction book !

From books teaching art to those discussing it, this genre has many different kinds of books. Coffee table books showcasing an artist's work fall under this category. You’ll also find things like tattoo books and how-to-draw books in this genre.

Average Word Count for Art & Photography Books: 5,000 to 100,000.

Autobiographies and memoirs are both written by the author (sometimes with the help of a ghostwriter) but focus on different things. An autobiography will detail the author's life chronologically. A memoir will explore a central theme, often focusing on a specific relationship, time, or event in the author's life.

Average Word Count for Autobiographies and Memoirs: 80,000 to 100,000.

Biographies are like autobiographies but written by someone other than the subject. They're typically about someone famous. The author will present a narrative that reads like a fiction book, but all the details are true and backed by research.

Average Word Count for Biographies: 80,000 to 110,000.

Yes, there are two children’s book sections; one for fiction and one for nonfiction. This nonfiction section is where you’ll find coloring books, activity books, and other nonfiction books aimed at helping children learn and develop. You’ll even find some true stories featuring children in this genre. So if you have an idea about a nonfiction book that will help children of any age learn something about themselves or the world, this is the genre for you.

Average Word Count for Children’s Nonfiction Books: 500 to 1,500.

Cookbooks are instructional books on how to make food, from barbecue and scrambled eggs to homemade ice cream and fancy meals. Usually, the recipes in a cookbook are bound by a common theme. A few examples include comfort foods, holiday cooking, or Italian recipes.

Average Word Count for Cookbooks: 15,000 to 80,000.

From woodworking to crocheting, the crafts and hobbies genre can help readers get artistic and creative. If you've made a living selling cute magnets on Etsy or you've mastered creating realistic train models from scratch, you could write a book about it and market it under this genre!

Average Word Count for Craft and Hobby Books: 5,000 to 50,000.

No one gives new parents a handbook for raising their children. Luckily, you can find a book in the family and parenting genre that will help. There are books on the best things to do with a newborn baby, and others on how to deal with unruly teenagers. Some books in this section are just general guides on how to be a good parent and nurture the familial relationships. And while many of the authors in this genre are experts, experience does count for a lot. You could share your experiences raising a family by writing a book on this topic!

Average Word Count for Family and Parenting Books: 40,000 to 80,000.

The health and fitness industry is massive, and books are a big part of it. Whether it be a book of healthy eating tips or a body-building bible, you'll find it in this genre. If you’re writing a book on running, cycling, yoga, or just living an overall healthy life, it will fit well in the health and fitness genre.

Average Word Count for Health and Fitness Books: 20,000 to 50,000.

Learning from the past is important to ensuring a better future. And that’s what the history genre is all about. There are seemingly endless topics to write about here. Books about World War II, World History, Ancient Rome, and the Great Depression can all fit comfortably in this section. Biographies of historical figures may also be filed under this genre in addition to the biography genre. Even recent historical topics will go here, like the 2008 financial crisis!

Average Word Count for History Books: 60,000 to 100,000.

The humor genre includes any nonfiction book whose purpose is to make readers laugh. There are humorous autobiographies from comedians and celebrities, books of jokes, and “bathroom humor” books with silly essays and observations about life. Humorist David Sedaris has several hilarious books in this genre.

Average Word Count for Humor Books: 15,000 to 50,000.

Whether you're spiritual, religious, or even agnostic, there's bound to be something in this genre for you. Some books you'll find in this genre include those detailing the histories and beliefs of religions, inspiring true stories of faith lost and found, and even books about the beliefs of atheists and agnostics. If you've got something unique or inspiring to say about religion or spiritual beliefs, your writing could fit in well here.

Average Word Count for Religion & Spirituality Books: 40,000 to 70,000.

The exponential advance of technology is hard to keep up with, but you can try with books in this genre. Usually written by authors with advanced degrees or experts in their fields, these nonfiction books can range from simple explanations of physics to in-depth postulations about artificial intelligence — and everything in between.

Average Word Count for Science & Technology Books: 60,000 to 80,000.

The self-help genre is big, encompassing books on how to improve your life or your well-being. From increasing your confidence to changing your ideas about money, there are tons of subjects that fit in this genre. If you have life-changing tips to share with readers that can help them better their lives, write a self-help book!

Average Word Count for Self-Help Books: 40,000 to 80,000.

This genre includes a plethora of choices about complex political systems and the even more complex ways humans interact with each other. You'll find many social science topics in this genre, including psychology, sociology, and social work. Like many other nonfiction genres, the authors who write books about politics and social sciences are usually experts in their fields. So if that’s you, get to writing!

Average Word Count for Politics and Social Sciences Books: 50,000 to 90,000.

If you've done some traveling and have some great stories to tell, or you have some practical tips for fellow adventurers, this could be the genre for your book. You'll also find detailed travel guides in this section. Some of these books read like fiction, while others are packed with information, allowing the reader to pick out information about their city and interests.

Average Word Count for Travel Books: 25,000 to 70,000.

True crime is one of the most popular nonfiction genres out there. From drug deals to murders to white-collar crime, these books deliver the goods on real-life crime stories, often reading like a thriller or mystery with a clear narrative instead of just a sequence of events. The book Helter Skelter is one of the most famous examples of a true crime novel.

Average Word Count for True Crime Books: 60,000 to 90,000.

Knowing your genre isn’t just important for the placement of your book in online and physical stores. It’s also a key ingredient in an effective marketing strategy. Placing your book in front of readers who are willing to purchase it is half the battle. Of course, there’s more than one way to do this. You can comb through Amazon or Goodreads, searching for books like yours and writing down their genres and subgenres. Unfortunately, this is time-consuming.

To solve this problem, we created Publisher Rocket, which combs through Amazon in seconds and presents you with all the information you need — including keywords to use in your marketing campaigns. A few searches on Publisher Rocket, and you can find out which genres are best for your book. You can even use it to find out what categories Amazon puts your book in after you publish it — something you can’t even do on Amazon itself.

You can learn more about Publisher Rocket here .

Jason Hamilton

When I’m not sipping tea with princesses or lightsaber dueling with little Jedi, I’m a book marketing nut. Having consulted multiple publishing companies and NYT best-selling authors, I created Kindlepreneur to help authors sell more books. I’ve even been called “The Kindlepreneur” by Amazon publicly, and I’m here to help you with your author journey.

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The Best Books: Recommended Reading List

The page is a reading list sharing the best books to read in various categories based on many hours of reading and research. You’ll find more than 100 good books to read, organized by category.

This is a reading list for people who don’t have time for unimportant books. I only list the best books to read in each category. You can be sure that each one is fantastic and will be worth your time.

Want to keep things simple? Check out the “10 Best” lists under the Start Here section to get some great book recommendations without feeling overwhelmed by all the options.

I. Start Here: The Best Books of All-Time

Looking for more good books to read? Click the links below to jump to a specific category.

10 Best Nonfiction Books
10 Best Fiction Books
10 Books with the Most Page-For-Page Wisdom
25 Best-Selling Books of All-Time
100+ Book Summaries

II. Best Nonfiction Books

These are the best nonfiction books to read, listed by category.

Best Art and Creativity Books
Best Biographies and Memoirs
Best Business Books
Best Fitness Books
Best History Books
Best Philosophy Books
Best Psychology Books
Best Science Books
Best Self-Help Books
Best Writing Books

III. Best Fiction Books

These are the best fiction books to read, listed by category.

Best Novels of All-Time
Best Fantasy Books
Best Mystery Books

IV. Book Summaries

For many of the nonfiction books I read, I publish my personal notes and write a three sentence summary of the main ideas in the book. You can read all of these notes on my book summaries page .

V. How to Read More Books

I use a simple process to read a lot of books. If you’re interested in reading books more consistently, you may find it useful.

How to Read More: The Simple System I’m Using to Read 30+ Books Per Year

30 Days to Better Habits: A simple step-by-step guide for forming habits that stick

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Learn a framework that works for any habit. You can use this course to build any good habit – from getting fit, to saving for an early retirement, to daily meditation.

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Book List: The 80+ Best Book Lists to Help You Find Your Next Great Read

When authors write books, they organize their thinking. As readers, if we want to do the same, we must organize our books. After all, reading the right book at the right time will have a disproportionately positive effect on our life. That’s where a book list comes in. If you keep a bunch of book lists at hand, you’ll always have access to the thinking of someone who’ll make an extraordinary impact on your situation right now .

So, what kind of book lists are there? How do you best organize your reading goals while still leaving room for spontaneity and new insights? Where should you start?

In this meta post, a big list of book lists, if you will, we’ll cover the most important kinds of book lists and where to find them. We’ll show you when and how to use these often painstakingly curated tools. Also, if you’re looking for a specific book list you don’t know the name of, chances are, this page will be a good place to start as well.

As usual, we’ve organized the information on this page into various categories. For each kind of book list, we’ll briefly explain what they’re about, when and why you might want to rely on them, and link to the most relevant ones in that section.

You can use the clickable table of contents below to jump to any book list category. If you want to jump to the book lists on Four Minute Books that we made specifically for you, you can jump to the ones by topic or by author .

Let’s see how you can use book lists to always learn the right thing at the right time and discover 80+ great book lists along the way!

Table of Contents

Book Lists by Popularity

The best-selling books of all time, the highest-rated books of all time, bestseller lists, rating lists, recommendation lists, book lists by year & time, book lists by year, book lists by decade, book lists by century, book lists by category & genre, book lists by topic, book lists by author, book lists by target reader group, book lists by & for yourself.

The most popular book lists are those which rank books by their, well, popularity. Humans are social animals. We want to read what others read. There are two primary metrics popularity lists use to rank books:

Number of sales
Number of high ratings (either by the general public or in the form of endorsements from specific people)

Here are some of the most relevant lists in each of those categories.

If you’re looking for some of the best-selling books in history, these are good places to start. Most lists exclude religious books like the Bible or the Quran, and most of the books are in the fiction category.

Wikipedia’s List of Best-Selling Books . This also includes a list of the bestselling book series of all time.
Top 10 Best-Selling Books of All Time by All Top Everything . This list includes religious books.
The 30 Best-Selling Novels of All Time by Best Life . This list is fiction only.
When it comes to nonfiction, I couldn’t find a single list of all-time best-selling titles. We’re working on it. In the meantime, your best bet is to look at the blue-highlighted books on Wikipedia’s list .

There’s a difference between books that sell a lot of copies and books that an unusually large share of readers rates very highly. Of course, unlike sales numbers, book ratings are subjective. But if a 10,000-copy-seller has a straight 5-star rating, whereas a 100,000-copy-seller only gets 3 stars, there’s probably something to be said about both of them — one has a wider impact, the other a deeper one.

Here are some of the book lists curating all-time classics and audience favorites.

The Greatest Books of All Time . This is an excellent project by Shane Sherman. He built an algorithm to scour over 130 “best books” lists and then aggregate the data. Available for both fiction and nonfiction.
Penguin’s 100 Must-Read Classics, As Chosen by Readers . Penguin Books has been in the publishing business since 1935. They’re an authority on world-class literature, and so are their readers.
Reader’s Digest’s 100 Best Books of All Time . Where Penguin publishes books, RD recommends them. Founded more than 100 years ago, this general-interest magazine is a trusted source when it comes to book recommendations.
The Guardian’s 100 Greatest Novels of All Time . Robert McCrum is a longtime writer and senior editor. Here, he tried to pick history’s 100 best novels. He also updated the original list from 2003 in 2015 .
The Guardian’s 100 Greatest Non-Fiction Books . The Guardian staff also picked their favorite nonfiction titles.
100 Books to Read Before You Die . Joel Patrick cross-referenced eight “best books” lists. This the result.
The “Best Books Ever” on Goodreads . Over 230,000 people voted on the books in this list. These are Goodreads members’ 100 all-time favorites.

The longer the time frame you look at, the harder it is to get accurate data. On a monthly and weekly basis, however, book sales are now well-documented. Many people use bestseller lists as a reference for what to read next. The three most commonly cited lists are the New York Times Best Seller List, the Wall Street Journal Bestseller List, and the USA Today Best-Seller List. There are many others around the world, but these three might be the most famous, especially in the US.

Here are those three lists as well as some others that tell you which books are keeping readers glued to their pages right now.

The New York Times Best Seller List . By default, the list is sorted based on weekly sales and separates fiction and nonfiction. They also have some monthly lists, for example for business books or mass market paperbacks .
The Wall Street Journal Bestseller List . This list is also compiled on a weekly basis. You might need a WSJ subscription to see it.
The USA Today Best-Seller List . Conveniently, this list can be filtered and sorted directly on the page. It is also ranked by most weekly sales.
Publishers Weekly Bestseller Lists . This 150-year-old trade news organization for publishers, librarians, and anyone working with books also compiles various bestseller lists. Might require a subscription to see in-depth data.
Amazon Best Sellers . Amazon constantly updates its bestseller lists based on each book’s sales rank on their platform. You can also filter by various subcategories or see which books sell well specifically on Kindle .

Unlike sales data, book ratings and reviews are usually collected on an ongoing, cumulative basis. It makes sense: It doesn’t really matter whether someone liked (or disliked) a book yesterday or seven years ago. Their opinion is their opinion, and unless they change it, it doesn’t need updating.

While there are millions of lists out there where people share their favorite books, from individual TikTok posts to Twitter threads to blog posts, only a few places manage to collect and aggregate ratings and review data in statistically relevant quantities. Here they are:

Goodreads . This is easily the #1 place on the internet to see what other people think about certain books. Search for any book, look at the number of ratings and average score, read some reviews, then decide for yourself. It is also owned by…
Amazon . The largest retailer in the world is also the largest bookseller . No wonder, perhaps: After all, initially, Amazon sold only books! As such, plenty of people leave reviews on the site, and so usually, you can get a good feel for what people think about a certain book. Plus, since Amazon’s catalog is so big, you’ll find most books on there.
LibraryThing . At only around three million users vs. Goodreads’ 90 million, this site doesn’t have as much data, but it does provide a good overview of most titles, especially fiction.
NetGalley . This site also allows users to rate and review books, giving 1 to 5 stars. It’s also a good place to get advance copies of new books in exchange for leaving an honest review afterwards.

Book recommendations are as old as books themselves. Chances are, most book sales happen because someone told someone else, “Hey, this is a great book!” While there have always been “Books Recommended By X” lists — where “X” could be an author, expert, or celebrity of any kind — it is a relatively recent trend to aggregate such recommendations. Thanks to code and artificial intelligence, we can now extract who recommends which book in real-time from Twitter, for example.

Here are several sites that either qualify as an authority recommending books or recommendation aggregator.

Most Recommended Books . This is a side project by two developers, and I believe they’re pulling data from Twitter. The result is impressive: Over 1,000 book lists covering some 600+ experts’ recommendations.
Good Books . This site was built by Jordan Hughes in 2020 and sold to an unknown buyer in 2021. I don’t know how many updates it will get in the future, but it holds over 9,500+ book recommendations “from the most successful and interesting people in the world.”
What Should I Read Next? Some recommendation systems rely on people, others on algorithms. This is one of them. Just type in a book you like, and get similar recommendations!
Five Books . This site compiles countless experts’ top five book recommendations in various categories. Each list is manually crafted, but then they also aggregate those lists on topic pages. Great resource that I find myself on again and again.
Whichbook . Want to get book recommendations based on how you feel right now? How about picking the book’s backdrop setting on a world map? This is a very unique project, and I highly recommend you check it out.

Every year, several million books are published . Estimates range from one to four million, with about half of those books being self-published. Therefore, another common way to organize books is by year or time frame. Usually, this is paired with sales data or ratings. Again: popularity is popular.

Here are some book lists organized by year, decade, or century. You can find a lot more if you search for “best books of 1971,” “bestselling books of the 1950s,” and so on, on Google.

Wikipedia’s Annual Lists of New York Times Nonfiction Bestsellers . For every year going back until 1991, Wikipedia tracks which book took the #1 spot on the NYT bestseller list in any given week. After that, the data becomes spotty, but it does go back all the way until 1931, the year the list was first published. They also compile this data for fiction books , and in that category, it is 100% complete, which is astonishing.
Booklist Queen’s List of 2022 Nonfiction New York Times Bestsellers . Rachael is a book reading machine. She reads around 200 books each year. She also compiles all books that make the NYT bestseller list in any given year, if only for a week and in the last spot. Her lists are easy to skim and nice to look at. She also compiles them for fiction , but the oldest list I can find is for 2020.
Publishers Weekly Lists of Bestselling Novels for Each Year . While the process for inclusion on PW’s bestseller lists is not public and somewhat unclear (they never included the Harry Potter books, for example), they do have data on the ten bestselling novels of each year going all the way back until 1895. Stunning!
The Goodreads Choice Awards . Every year, Goodreads picks 20 books in various categories based on the data it has collected on them so far. Then, all users get to vote on their favorites in each category in two rounds. The awards have been held since 2011. A good way to find out what people enjoyed reading each year!
Literary Hub’s The Ultimate Best Books of 2022 List . When it comes to individual “best books of the year” lists, there are way too many to even begin to count, let alone list out here. Thankfully, Lithub’s Emily Temple painstakingly goes through many of them each year. In 2022, she went through 35 “best of” lists to compile a great meta list of which books were mentioned on the most lists. The result is a collection of 84 books out of 887 who seem to resonate with us more than the rest. You can find meta lists on Lithub going back to 2017 .
Goodreads’ Best Books of the Decade Lists . Starting from the year 1800, Goodreads has a list for each decade with the books published in it. Members vote on which books they like best, and that data, combined with a bunch of other factors, like average rating and total number of ratings, is then used to rank the books. Solid!
Literary Hub’s The Books That Defined the Decades Lists . Going back to 1900, Lithub picked a mix of ten fiction and nonfiction books for each decade that made an especially large impact on society.
The Greatest Book’s Custom-Filtered Lists . If you pick your category and click on “Custom” under “Filter” in the left-hand sidebar of Shane Sherman’s amazing project, you’ll be able to generate custom fiction or nonfiction book lists for basically any decade, starting from the year 1 AD. Naturally, not a lot of nonfiction was written between 1,000 and 1,010 AD (at least nothing we still remember or even know about), but it’s fun to play around with this tool and see what you can find.
The Guardian’s 100 Best Books of the 21st Century . While it’s arguably a bit foolish to try and curate the 100 best books of a century that hasn’t even passed one third of the way, one can always try. It’d be cool to see this list continue to update and keep snapshots of each iteration so we can compare how it evolved over time.
Goodreads’ Best Books of the Century Lists . Besides having users vote on books by decade, Goodreads also curates century-based lists — going all the way back to the 4th century AD. Pretty cool!
Modern Library’s Top 100 of the 20th Century . In 1998, Modern Library, then-parent-company of publisher Random House, asked its editorial board to pick the top 100 novels out of 400 titles they had published between 1900 and 1998. The list is biased towards the company’s own catalog, but good. A year later, they did the same for nonfiction . After the New York Times shared the lists, they also held reader polls, and around 200,000 voters picked their fiction and nonfiction favorites.
Literary Hub’s Biggest Nonfiction Bestsellers of the Last 100 Years . This is one of the few lists offering bestseller data on nonfiction titles published as early as 1918. It’s sorted by year but provides a good overview of the 20th century as a whole. Lithub even included a book for each year that we’re more likely to actually remember than what happened to be popular at the time. A really cool source of new reads.

Like most of the book lists we’ve covered so far, many curation attempts separate between the two main categories of books: fiction and nonfiction. That said, each of these categories then splits into several types and genres. Let’s look at what they are and see some sample book lists for each one of them!

Nonfiction deals with the real world. It is an attempt to accurately represent or explain a person or group of people, topic, or historical event using facts, analysis, and deduction. There are 4 subtypes of nonfiction :

Expository nonfiction tries to explain and inform, covering a specific topic. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari, for example, attempts to cover all of human history up to the 21st century.
Narrative nonfiction aims to retell a true story, a person’s biography, for example, or what happened in a certain place or at a historically significant event. Bad Blood by John Carreyrou, for example, covers the story of Elizabeth Holmes and her fraudulent company Theranos.
Persuasive nonfiction makes a case for one side of an issue. The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich Hayek, for example, argues that socialism just doesn’t work, and that we shouldn’t pursue it as a solution for managing our countries and societies.
Descriptive nonfiction , meanwhile, focuses on evoking your five senses to make a point, provide an accurate picture, or help you both understand and feel what a certain experience is (or was) like. The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton, for example, stresses not the tips and tactics of organizing trips well but the feelings and impressions that seeing many different places will convey to us.

When it comes to nonfiction, most book lists don’t differentiate between these four types. It is more common to filter by topic (see below) than by how the author tries to deliver the message. That said, here are some of the rare lists in these nonfiction categories:

Goodreads’ Expository Non Fiction Books . While this term is commonly used for children’s picture and read-aloud books, it also applies to classics like A Short History of Nearly Everything , Freakonomics , or Drive .
Booklist Queen’s 40 Narrative Nonfiction Books That Read Like Novels . These are some great, riveting reads that don’t just make for powerful stories but actually happened.
While I couldn’t find any list of particularly good persuasive nonfiction books , and a lot of people seem to confuse this type with books about persuasion, some good ones to start with are The World Without Us , Empty Planet , Socialism , Capitalism and Freedom , Fascism , In Defense of Food , and How to Be an Antiracist .
Descriptive nonfiction books are also most common for children, aimed at helping them understand what certain experiences and aspects of life are supposed to feel like. While lists here are scarce too, many books for adults focus heavily on emotions and sensory impressions as well, such as How to Be Alone , Walden , and Our Wild Calling .

Since fiction does not rely on facts, its sub-groupings rely less on how a book presents its contents and more on what those contents are about. Rather than into various types or topics, fiction breaks down into genres, and the writing world generally agrees that there are 9 major ones :

Horror is anything gory, graphically violent, or otherwise psychologically terrifying. Most of Stephen King’s books fall under this genre.
Mystery or Crime usually involves a case or puzzle of some kind to be solved. It might be supernatural or an ordinary crime, but the suspense of wanting to find out what happened is what keeps us going. The Sherlock Holmes books are a good example.
Romance covers any plot whose protagonist(s) find, lose, or rediscover love, usually with and for one another. Rachel Hollis’ Party Girl , for example.
Science-Fiction imagines the expanding possibilities of science, usually into the future. Whether progress goes right or wrong is another matter. In 1984 , for example, it didn’t go so well…
Thrillers are books mainly concerned with suspense. They try to keep you on the edge of your seat as much as possible. Often, they involve a murder, complicated relationship, or creepy mystery, but they don’t have to for you to keep turning page after page. Dan Brown’s books, like The Da Vinci Code , fall into this category.
Westerns , like their movie counterparts, center around the events and people of “ the Wild West ,” the period of America’s expansion from a batch of colonies into a conglomerate of states from around 1600 to 1900. True Grit is a famous example that has been adapted into several movie versions.
Historical novels blend fact and fiction to varying degrees. Steven Pressfield, otherwise known for The War of Art , also wrote several books fictionalizing historical battles in ancient Greece, such as Gates of Fire , for example.
Young adult fiction stars and is aimed at teenagers, though plenty of adults read books like the Twilight series or The Hunger Games . The action can be set in the real world or combined with fantasy elements.
Fantasy includes anything magical, be it wizards, vampires, ghosts, time travel, mythical swords, dragons, or other fantastic creatures and elements. Two words: Harry Potter . Need I say more?

As opposed to nonfiction’s subtypes, people love to make genre-based book lists. Here’s one for each of the above types of fiction books:

Reader’s Digest’s 56 Best Horror Books of All Time . Spoiler alert: Stephen King shows up a lot.
25 of the Best Murder Mystery Books by Book Riot . If you’re craving a good whodunit , these ones are for you.
The 30 Best Romance Novels of 2022 That’ll Give You All the Feels by Cosmpolitan . This genre keeps ever-expanding, and there’s always a new love story to discover. These are the best titles published in 2022.
Wired’s 29 of the Best Science Fiction Books Everyone Should Read . For everyone who wishes they could take a trip to the stars or the future, this list will have a good read.
Penguin Random House’s List of the Best Thrillers of All Time . From new to old, these page-turners will send chills down your spine.
Art of Manliness List of 21 Western Novels Every Man Should Read . Not just for men, of course. Cowgirls welcome too!
Pan Macmillan’s 50 of the Best Historical Fiction Books of All Time . From Ken Follet to Emma Donoghue and from 14th century China to 1960s America, these novels will take you down historic paths — and beyond.
Time’s List of The 100 Best YA Books of All Time . From Percy Jackson to The Catcher in the Rye , these books will leave an impression on you whether you’re still a teenager or not.
TCK Publishing’s 18 Best Fantasy Book Series to Binge On . What’s better than 18 books? 18 book series . These provide material to get lost in for months. Happy fantasizing!

As mentioned above, in nonfiction, it is most common to sort book lists by topic. From self-help to biography to history, you can find book lists on almost any topic, though some are much more exhaustive than others.

If you were looking only for books about the history of coffee, for example, you’d probably find only a handful overall , and maybe only one or two good ones (Michael Pollan’s Caffeine comes to mind). Books about food history in general , however, are already more common, and books about food itself are abundant, especially if you include cookbooks. Therefore, when curating book lists, it makes sense to choose topics that are high-level enough to offer a good number of books yet meaningful enough to make sense for readers and book-seekers.

At Four Minute Books, we group our book summaries into 44 categories . We also manually curate book lists on at least the most in-demand topics. Here are all the ones we’ve made for you so far:

The 60 Best Business Books of All Time (Will Forever Change How You Think About Organizations)
The 20 Best Entrepreneurship Books to Start, Grow & Run a Successful Business
The 14 Best Finance Books of All Time
The 21 Best Habit Books of All Time to Change Any Behavior
The 33 Best Happiness Books of All Time That Everyone Should Read
The 60 Best History Books of All Time (to Read at Any Age)
The 7 Best Inspirational Books That Will Light Your Inner Fire
The 40 Best Leadership Books of All Time to Help You Become a Truly Inspiring Person
The 31 Best Motivational Books Ever Written
The 12 Best Nonfiction Books Most People Have Never Heard Of
The 35 Best Philosophy Books to Live Better and Become a Great Thinker
The 34 Best Psychology Books That Will Make You Smarter and Happier
The 25 Best Sales Books of All Time to Help You Close Any Deal
The 33 Best Self-Help Books of All Time to Read at Any Age
The 22 Best Books About Sex & Sexuality to Improve Your Love Life & Relationships
The 30 Most Life-Changing Books That Will Shift Your Perspective & Stay With You Forever

In The Catcher in the Rye , protagonist Holden Caulfield says that “what really knocks me out is a book that, when you’re all done reading it, you wish the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours.” I think this has happened to most of us at some point, and when it does, we want more of the same. That’s why another useful kind of book list is the one organized by author.

Who is this person, and why do they cover the topics they cover? What other books have they written? How many are there? And what’s the best order to read them in? Author book lists answer questions like those.

At Four Minute Books, we also compile author book lists. Take Peter Thiel , for example. Has he written any other books besides Zero to One ? Are there any books about him? What about the ones he recommends? We gathered all that information for you in one neat post . Here’s a full list of all author book lists we’ve created so far:

All Brené Brown Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
Jordan Peterson Books: All Titles in Order of Publication + The 5 Top Books He Recommends
All Malcolm Gladwell Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Michael Pollan Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
Peter Thiel Books: A Comprehensive List of Books By, About & Recommended by Peter Thiel
All Rachel Hollis Books: The Full List of Non-Fiction, Fiction & Cookbooks, Sorted by Popularity & the Best Reading Order
All Ray Dalio Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Robert Greene Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Ryan Holiday Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Simon Sinek Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Tim Ferriss Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)
All Walter Isaacson Books, Sorted Chronologically (and by Popularity)

Yet another way to organize books is to sort them not by what they are about but by who they are for . At Four Minute Books, we like to combine target reader groups with topics. On our list of the best self-help books , for example, we mention some of the best self-help books for women , and some of the best ones for men .

That said, you can find many more such lists on the web. Here are a few of the best and most popular ones to give you some ideas what else you can search for:

15 Top Books for Men to Read by MensGroup . If you want to be a man of culture, these classics are some great picks!
Woman’s Day’s 50 Inspirational Books All Women Should Read in Their Lifetime . For more inspiration, confidence, and empowering female stories, this list is a good start.
PureWow’s The 25 Best Books to Read in Your 20s . Age groups are popular too. You can also find lists of the best books to read in your 30s , 40s , and so on.
Our list of The 20 Best Books for Entrepreneurs . If you’re trying to accomplish a certain goal or become a certain someone, often, you’re not alone. There are plenty of book lists out there for people who want to become chefs , writers , or consultants , and a lot more!
The Gentle Nursery’s 23 Best Books for New Parents . Is your family expanding? Perhaps some books about becoming a mom or dad are in order!
BuzzFeed’s 23 Books You Should Read Even If You Aren’t Into Reading . Yes. There are even book lists for people who don’t particularly like books. Amazing, isn’t it?

Finally, there are the book lists you create by and for yourself. While there are plenty of book trackers out there, from Bookshelf to Bookly to StoryGraph , Goodreads remains the platform of choice for almost 100 million people.

As soon as you sign up and make a free account, you’ll see three default lists (the links go to the lists for my own account):

Want to Read
Currently Reading

You can also create your own lists, of course. I keep one just for books that I want to read whenever I feel I need some extra inspiration, for example.

Goodreads also has plenty of pre-made lists which you can like or vote on, and then they’ll be saved to your profile for easy reference. Pretty neat!

Goodreads isn’t exactly the newest or best-looking tool to track your reading (though they are rolling out a new interface), but it gets the job done and is better than manual tracking or a spreadsheet, if you ask me.

Phew. That was…a lot of lists! What do you think? Did we do a good job? Or is there some kind of book list you think is missing? Let us know on Twitter , and we’ll be glad to update this post.

Like I said in the beginning, the right book at the right time can make all the difference — and with the right book list at hand, you’ll always have access to that most timely, relevant of reads.

Last Updated on January 19, 2023

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Books of the Bible
Blog Archive
Bible Gateway

Although, like Reese’s, there’s no wrong way to read the Bible, by far the two most common ways to read the books of the Bible in order are thematically and chronologically.

Thematic (or canonical) order is the most straightforward: this is how most Bibles are organized. However, the order differs slightly between traditions, especially when you add in the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books included in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles.
Chronological (or timeline) order is much more complicated. Many of the books have overlapping timelines, and they don’t always specify when they were written or compiled. But it is possible to create a rough chronology.

In order to help you make sense of these variations and give you a few straightforward reading options, I’ve compiled two complete lists of the books of the Bible for your reference, along with some clarifying notes.

(On the other hand, you can always use one of Bible Gateway’s handy reading plans to guide you. We’ll even send daily reminders, if you want us to.)

List of Bible reading order in both traditional/thematic and chronological formats.

Reading the Bible Thematically: The Bible’s Table of Contents

Here is a complete list of the standard table of contents in most Bibles, broken up by type. This has been the canonical order since it was formally decided by the church councils of the late 4 th century AD.

I have included Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books (and additions within books) in italics. These are included in Catholic Bibles but not in most Protestant ones.

Old Testament

Torah/Pentateuch

Deuteronomy
1 & 2 Samuel
1 & 2 Kings
1 & 2 Chronicles
Esther (with additions)
1 & 2 Maccabees

Wisdom Books

Ecclesiastes
Song of Solomon
Wisdom of Solomon
Lamentations
Baruch & Letter of Jeremiah
Daniel (with Prayer of Azariah + Song of the Three Jews, Susannah, & Bel and the Dragon)
New Testament

Gospels & Acts

Letters & Revelation

1 & 2 Corinthians
Philippians
Colossians
1 & 2 Thessalonians
1 & 2 Timothy
1 & 2 Peter
1, 2 & 3 John
Revelation
Note on Orthodox Bibles

In addition to the books listed above, Orthodox Bibles include the following books:

1 Esdras (precedes Ezra/Nehemiah, which is called “2 Esdras” in Orthodox Bibles)
3 Maccabees (follows 2 Maccabees)
4 Maccabees (included in an appendix)
Psalm 151 (at end of Psalms)
Prayer of Manasseh (after Psalms)
Note on Jewish Bibles

Jewish Bibles contain the same books as the Protestant Old Testament, but the order is slightly different.

Torah : Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy
Prophets: Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, The Twelve (Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi)
Writings: Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Song of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra-Nehemiah, Chronicles

How to Read the Bible Chronologically: A Complete Guide

It’s surprisingly difficult to read the Bible in the order of its events as they happened. For one thing, there was no consistent calendar or dating system in the ancient world (time was usually tracked based on which king or dynasty was in power).

Though some of the books follow a straightforward timeline, others jump around a bit, often overlapping each other. And most of the prophets don’t specify when they were active, leaving scholars to determine their dates using context clues, archaeology, and other means.

Though on one hand this can make creating a simple Biblical timeline a frustrating exercise, in my opinion it is one of God’s great blessings to us that he has provided multiple perspectives on many eras of his covenant and works in his creation. Though there’s nothing wrong with trying, for example, to find the “historical Jesus” between the lines of the four gospels, we would have been much the poorer if God had seen fit to only give us one of them.

With all that in mind, here is a chronological list of the books of the Bible, with suggested (though highly contested) dates and explanatory notes.

Old Testament Era

Age of the Patriarchs (Beginnings to 1400s BC)

Genesis 1-11
Job [Takes place sometime during Genesis; this is a good break in the narrative to slot it in.]
Genesis 12-50

Age of Exodus (1400s BC)

Deuteronomy [Overlaps with Leviticus and Numbers.]

Age of Resettlement (1300s to early 1000s BC)

Age of Kings I: Saul and David (ca. 1050-970 BC)

1 Chronicles
Psalms [Covers a wide range of time, but most were written by David.]

Age of Kings II: Solomon (ca. 970-925 BC)

1 Kings 1-11
2 Chronicles 1-9
Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon [All ascribed to Solomon.]

The Kingdom Divided and the Prophets (ca. 925-600 BC)

1 Kings 12-22
2 Kings 1-23
2 Chronicles 10-35

The Babylonian Exile (ca. 600-530 BC)

2 Kings 24-25
2 Chronicles 36:1-21

Return from Exile

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
Joel [Debated; could be pre-exile.]
New Testament Era

Life of Jesus (ca. 4 BC – 30 AD)

Matthew, Mark, John, Luke
Note: The Gospels can be read in any order. Mark was probably written first and John last, but I suggest the above order because Matthew starts with the genealogy, and Luke segues right into Acts (which he also wrote).

Acts and Letters of the Apostles (ca. 30-100 AD)

Philippians & Philemon [Dating these hinges on which of Paul’s imprisonments they were written from.]
1 & 2 Timothy, Titus
When Do the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical Books Take Place?

For the most part, the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books are understood to have been written much later than the rest of the Old Testament (hence their other name, the books of the “intertestamental period”). But many of them take place much earlier than their composition.

If you want to slot the Deuterocanonical books into the above chronology, here’s where they would fit:

Tobit: Between Zephaniah and Nahum.
Baruch & Letter of Jeremiah: With Lamentations.
Judith: Between Obadiah and Ezekiel.
Daniel additions: With Daniel.
Esther additions: With Esther.
Sirach: After Malachi.
1 & 2 Maccabees: After Sirach.
Wisdom of Solomon: After Maccabees. (Not written by Solomon, despite the name.)

Want a simpler way to read the Bible chronologically? You can sign up for Bible Gateway’s chronological reading plan and get the daily reading right in your inbox. Or, if you prefer hard copy, you can try the Chronological Study Bible (available in NIV or NKJV) — also available in Bible Gateway Plus.

Chronological Study Bible
Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible
HarperCollins Study Bible (now the SBL Study Bible )

Jacob Edson

Jacob holds a Master of Theological Studies in Early Christian Thought from Harvard Divinity School, and a Bachelor of Arts in Religious History from Memorial University of Newfoundland, though with most of his coursework from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. His work has appeared in Ekstasis and in Geez Magazine's "Embracing Darkness" Advent devotional. He is currently Editorial Director of Bible Gateway.

Jacob Edson https://www.biblegateway.com/learn/author/jacob-edson/ Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Bible Verses and Chapters
Jacob Edson https://www.biblegateway.com/learn/author/jacob-edson/ Complete Guide to Bible Versions: Comparison, History, and Philosophy of Top Bible Translations

In This Article

July 2024 Bible News

Look at the book: judges [infographic] , what we learn from the names of god , look at the book: joshua [infographic] , everything you ever wanted to know about bible verses and chapters , more like this related.

Look at the Book: Deuteronomy [Infographic]

Look at the book: numbers [infographic].

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List of Book Genres: 30 Fiction And Nonfiction Genres You Should Know

What does your book genre tell you?

List of Book Genres

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The Ultimate List of Book Genres: 35 Popular Genres, Explained

How many book genres are there?

Which genre (or subgenre) am I writing?

Fiction genres

Science Fiction

Action & Adventure

Thriller & Suspense

Historical Fiction

Women’s Fiction

Contemporary Fiction

Literary Fiction

Magical Realism

Graphic Novel

Short Story

Young Adult

Nonfiction genres

Memoir & Autobiography

Food & Drink

Art & Photography

Guide/How-to

Religion & Spirituality

Humanities & Social Sciences

Parenting & Families

Science & Technology

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The Master List of Book Genres: 95 Fiction & Nonfiction Genres

This List of Book Genres Contains:

1. Action/Adventure fiction

2. Children’s fiction

3. Classic fiction

4. Contemporary fiction

5. Fantasy

6. Dark fantasy

7. Fairy tales

8. Folktales

9. Heroic fantasy

10. High fantasy

11. Historical fantasy

12. Low fantasy

13. Magical realism

14. Mythic fantasy

15. Urban fantasy

16. Graphic novel

17. Historical fiction

19. Body horror

20. Comedy horror

21. Gothic horror

22. Lovecraftian/Cosmic horror

23. Paranormal horror

24. Post-apocalyptic horror

25. Psychological horror

26. Quiet horror

27. Slasher

28. LGBTQ+

29. Literary fiction

30. Mystery

32. Cozy mystery

33. Gumshoe/Detective mystery