Genre

What is a Genre? A genre is a class or category of similar pieces of writing. Fiction is literature that describes imaginary events and people. Non-fiction is writing that is based on facts, real events, and real people.

Realistic Fiction Typically set in the present or recent past Characters are involved in events that could actually happen Characters live in places that are or could be real Characters seem like real people facing conflicts that could happen in real life, and solve those conflicts in a realistic way

Science Fiction Typically set in the future Science or technology alters the plot Characters may face unusual or unreal conflicts (robots, aliens, etc.) Stories include a human element, explaining what effects new discoveries and scientific developments could have on us (humans) in the future Stories should be based on scientific principles that are at least partially true, and not be completely unbelievable—otherwise, the story fits better under fantasy

Historical Fiction Set in the past Incorporates past events or people into fictional stories Time period is important, and depiction of time period is realistic Accurate portrayal of life during that time period

Fantasy/Fairytale Contains elements that are not realistic Uses magic or other supernatural phenomena as a primary element of plot, theme, and/or setting Settings are often imaginary worlds where magic or magical creatures are common

Mystery Can be set in any time period Can be realistic settings, events, and characters Suspense, clues, crime, suspects, and victims are all common elements of mystery stories Mystery is solved by the end of the story Detective or crime novels are common examples of the mystery genre

Drama Includes a script Performed for audiences Relies on emotional and relational development of realistic characters

Poetry May have rhyme scheme, figurative language Can have many different tones/moods (humorous, sad, etc.) May tell a story

Biography/Autobiography True and factual A biography is written about a real person, alive or dead An autobiography is written by you and about you A memoir is a type of autobiography or biography written about personal moments in one’s life or the life of someone the author knows