Book genre explained: The 2022 Ultimate List of Book Genres with Story Ideas & Tips
In the world of books, there are so many genres to choose from. But which one is right for you? If you're a beginner comic book writer, this list will help you find the perfect genre to write in. Or you may be wondering what the different book genres are.
This ultimate list of book genres will help explain the most popular genres and give example story ideas of each book genre, with a focus on comic books. So whether you're looking for guidance on what type of book to write or are just curious about these popular genres, keep reading!
How many book genres are there?
Hard to say, there are many book genres and each has its own subgenres. Additionally, books can usually fall under multiple genres like an action-packed sci-fi novel with a bit of romance because the character falls in love as they travel through space fighting bad guys. See! It's hard to categorize books into one genre. There are over 100+ ways to categorize a book.
However, all these genres fall under two main genres: fiction and non-fiction.
Fiction Genre
Fiction is a type of writing that typically uses made-up stories, characters, and settings. It's a way to explore different worlds, whether they're based on reality or completely imaginary. Fiction can be further divided into other subgenres, these popular fiction genres are listed below.
Science fiction
A genre of speculative fiction that deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced science and technology, space exploration, time travel, parallel universes, etc. Science fiction has been called the "literature of ideas", and often explores the potential consequences of scientific, social, and technological innovations.
Story ideas in the Science Fiction book genre to use in your next book:
In the far future, life is found on Pluto. In fact, a whole civilization exists and has always existed.
A character travels back in time to alter history but finds history is different than what is taught in the future.
A scientific experiment goes wrong and creates a .....
The year is 2132. Earth is a wasteland. The air is toxic, the water is poisoned, and the land is scorched. The only survivors are those who have escaped to space. But two spit camps of scientists must fight to settle a moral conundrum that will determine the fate of the human race.
How to write a book in the Science Fiction genre?
Science fiction can be a great source of inspiration for comic book creators. Not only does it provide a rich source of ideas and storylines, but it can also help to challenge and engage readers.
In order to use this book genre effectively in your next comic book, here are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that your science fiction story is well-constructed and believable. Even the most far-fetched ideas will seem logical if they are handled properly. Second, don't be afraid to experiment with new concepts and technologies. Science fiction is all about pushing boundaries, so use your comic book as a chance to explore the impossible. Finally, remember to have fun with it. Science fiction is supposed to be exciting and entertaining, so make sure your story reflects that. With these tips in mind, you're one step closer to writing the next best science fiction comic book!
Fantasy
The fantasy book genre is characterized by stories that take place in imaginary worlds. Many comic book fans are drawn to the genre because of its ability to transport readers to other worlds, where anything is possible. These worlds often include magical elements, such as wizards and dragons. Fantasy stories often revolve around the quest of a heroic character to save the world from evil. Many well-known stories, such as The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter, are considered to be part of the fantasy genre.
While some fantasy novels are light-hearted and fun, others can be quite dark and serious. Regardless of their tone, all fantasy stories offer readers a chance to escape from the ordinary world and explore new and fascinating worlds.
Story ideas in the Fantasy book genre to use in your next book:
A young girl discovers she has the ability to transform into a dragon.
A wizard trains a group of students to defeat an evil sorcerer (plot twist: she is the evil sorcerer).
A kingdom is threatened by a horde of monsters.
A group of friends go on a quest to save their friend from a curse.
How to write a book in the Fantasy genre?
If you're looking to add a bit of the fantasy book genre to your next comic book, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. First, decide what kind of world you want to create. Is it a medieval-style kingdom, or a more modern city with magic lurking around every corner? Once you've established the setting, you'll need to populate it with characters that fit the tone of the story you're trying to tell. Will your heroes be brave knights or plucky wizards? Will they be fighting dragons or demons? The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Finally, don't forget that a good story still needs to be well-written and believable. Even in a world of magic, readers need to be able to suspend their disbelief long enough to enjoy the story.
Action & Adventure Fiction
The Action & Adventure book genre is all about, well, action and adventure! These fiction genres are fast-paced and full of thrills, spills, and close calls. If you're looking for a heart-racing read, this is the book genre for you. Action & Adventure books can be set in any time period or place, but they often include elements of suspense and danger, making them perfect for readers who like to be on the edge of their seats. In addition to being thrilling, Action & Adventure books often explore vibrant worlds and complex characters. So if you're in the mood for an exciting read, be sure to check out the Action & Adventure section at your local bookstore.
Story ideas in the Action book genre and Adventure genre to use in your next book:
A group of friends go on a treasure hunt and end up stranded on a deserted island.
A young woman discovers she has superpowers and must use them to save the world from a villain.
After he discovers a secret government laboratory in the woods, Jack must undergo a long trek to save his life and .....
How to write a book in the Action genre & Adventure Genres?
In every great comic book adventure, there's a sense of exploration and discovery. The best adventures are those that take the reader to new and exciting places, both physical and mental. If you're looking to add some adventure to your next comic book, here are a few tips.
When writing in the Action & Adventure book genre, it's important to keep the pacing fast and the stakes high. readers should never be bored or confused, so it's important to keep the plot moving forward. To do this, make sure your scenes are action-packed and full of suspense. First, think about where your story is taking place. Is it in a familiar city or town, or are you taking your characters to uncharted territory? If it's the latter, be sure to set the scene early on so that readers can get a sense of the new environment.
Second, consider what sort of obstacles and challenges your characters will face along the way. To create great action stories, you'll also need to choreograph the action sequences carefully, making sure each panel flows logically from one to the next.
And finally, don't forget to add some sound effects! A few well-placed "Pows!" and "Bams!" can really bring the action to life. With these tips in mind, you're ready to start creating some truly breath-taking action scenes for your next comic book. A good adventure & action story is one that tests the hero in new and unexpected ways. Finally, don't forget to have fun with it! An adventure story should be exciting and fast-paced, so make sure your writing reflects that.
Historical Fiction
Historical fiction is a genre of literature that uses real historical events and figures as the basis for a work of fiction. While it is often classified as a subgenre of both fiction and history, it can also be seen as its own separate book genre. This book genre encompasses real-life events as a starting point for an imaginative story, which may be a completely fictional story or based on true events with some fictional elements.
Either way, the historical fiction book genre offers readers a unique way to learn about the past by immersing them in a story that is both entertaining and informative. As the name suggests, historical fiction typically takes place in the past. This genre allows authors to explore how various eras and civilizations might have affected their story's characters and events.
Story ideas in the Historical fiction book genre to use in your next book:
An interracial couple end up stranded in the middle of a war zone, in the midst of the American Civil War this couple encounters how war affects love and the twisted version of events history left untold
Set in ancient Rome, a man haunted by his past travels down the silk road with his sword and wits to change the course of history.
A tale of two twins: one living in the Dark Ages in Europe while simultaneously the other basks in the advancements of Islamic enlightenment
How to write a book in the Historial Fiction genre?
It can be tricky to write historical literary fiction. You want to stay true to history, but at the same time, you don't want your story to be bogged down by too many facts. Here are a few tips to help you strike the right balance.
First, do your research. This section of literary fiction is all about creating a believable world, so it's important to get the details right. But don't get too caught up in trivia. Your goal should be to give readers a sense of time and place, not an exhaustive history lesson.
Second, focus on your characters. In any story, readers should be invested in the characters and their journey. For a book written in historical fiction, this is especially important since you want readers to feel like they're living through history alongside your characters.
Finally, don't be afraid to take liberties. While it's important to stay true to the historical record, remember that you're also telling a fiction story. So if you need to deviate from the facts to make your story more compelling, go for it! With these tips in mind, you're ready to start writing your own masterpiece of literary fiction.
Slice of life Fiction
A slice of life is all about creating a relatable story. The idea is to focus on a specific moment or series of events in a character's life, versus other fiction genres that traditionally have a plot-driven narrative. This allows the reader to get a deeper understanding of the character and their life. Slice of life stories can be comedic, tragic, fantastical or anything in between. What they all have in common is that they offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of their characters.
Whether it's a struggling musician trying to make ends meet or a young parent dealing with the ups and downs of parenting, the slice of life book genre can provide an insight into the human experience that we can all relate to.
Story ideas in the Slice of Life book genre to use in your next book:
A day in the life of a highschool student struggling with acne
A day in the life of a former WNBA athlete turned stay at home mom
A day in the life of a CEO of a missunderstood e-commerce brand
A day in the life of a low grade criminal who was unjustly sent to juvie for 10 years.
A day in the life of a grass- roots politician struggling to get votes
How to write a book in the Slice of life genre?
Do you want to use the slice of life in your next comic book, but didn't know how? Well, here's a quick guide! First, identify the main character or characters in your story. Next, think about what are the little things that make up their day-to-day routine? To do this effectively, it's important to focus on the small details that make up real life. This involves depicting everyday events and situations in a realistic way, without relying on superhuman abilities or unrealistic plot devices. Pay attention to the way people interact with each other and the environment around them. By capturing these mundane moments, you can give your readers a glimpse into a relatable, believable world.
The Slice-of-life comic book genre can be incredibly moving and provide a much-needed break for readers from the often over-the-top world of superhero comics, high school dramas, and love-me-not romances. So go ahead and give it a try in your next book!
Horror Fiction, Thriller Fiction, Suspense Fiction
Horror, Thriller, and Suspense are all book genres that aim to scare, thrill, or be suspenseful for readers.
Horror graphic novels often deal with themes of death, the supernatural, or violence. This book genre can be very graphic with an aim to shock and frighten the reader.
Thriller novels tend to be more fast-paced and action-packed, often with a plot that revolves around a crime or mystery. This book genre is more psychological in nature in comparison to horror fiction
Suspense has the slowest pace of all three book genres, books build tension and curiosity in the reader, often using elements of both horror and thriller. whatever the specific genre. All three types of books are sure to send a chill down your spine!
Story ideas in the Horror, Thriller or Suspense book genre to use in your next book:
A group of friends go camping in the woods and are terrorized by a serial killer.
A woman is kidnapped and must use her wits to escape her captors.
Holed in by a snowstorm, a high school delinquent and a group of strangers have to spend the night at a park recreation center. However, not everyone is who they say they are and the teen must stop a crime in progress without being caught by the criminal(s) two feet away...
How to write a book in the Horror, Thriller, and Suspense Fiction genre?
If you're looking to add some suspense and horror to your next comic book or graphic novel there are a few things you can do. First, try using shadowy, atmospheric illustrations to set the mood. Additionally, you can use suspenseful writing techniques like cliffhangers and red herrings to keep readers guessing.
Finally, in these book genres, don't be afraid to pull out all the stops when it comes to gore and violence - sometimes it's necessary to shock your readers in order to get their attention. By experimenting with different techniques, you can find what works best for you and create a truly spine-tingling comic book masterpiece.
Young Adult
The Young adult book genre is typically defined as books that are targeted at readers aged 13-18. However, this book genre is often enjoyed by adults as well. Young adult books typically deal with themes of identity, first love, and coming of age. They often feature protagonists who are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong in the world.
Young adult is typically realistic fiction, but can also be fantasy or supernatural. Young adult books can be serious or lighthearted, but they always contain an element of relatable teenage angst. If you're looking for a teenage coming-of-age story that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, then a young adult book is probably for you.
Story ideas in the Young Adult book genre to use in your next book:
A teenage girl tries to navigate her way through the ups and downs of high school while also dealing with her parent's divorce.
The boy prince of Aloria falls in love for the first time, but things are complicated because his lover turns out to be an enemy of the state he was born to hate.
A group of friends go on a road trip together and learn a lot about themselves - and each other - along the way.
How to write a book in the Young Adult genre?
First, focus on creating lovable characters that your readers can really get behind. Readers of this book genre want to see characters that they can identify with, so make sure your protagonists are relatable and sympathetic.
Second, don't be afraid to go big with your story. Young adult books often feature high-stakes conflicts and larger-than-life challenges. This is the time for your characters to really grow and change, so don't be afraid to push them out of their comfort zones.
Finally, make sure your story has heart. Young adult readers are looking for stories that will make them laugh, cry, and everything in between. So long as your story is authentic and heartfelt, you're sure to find an audience of loyal young readers.
Mystery
Mystery is a fiction book genre that typically centers around a crime or series of crimes (which is why it is also called detective fiction). The stories often involve detectives, either professional or amateur, who are trying to solve the mystery. While the plots can be complex, the best mystery book genre is typically known for its suspenseful pacing and twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. No matter what your taste in mysteries, there is sure to be a book that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
Story ideas in the Mystery book genre to use in your next book:
A group of friends starts receiving strange, anonymous letters that seem to know intimate details about their lives.
Someone is brutally murdered in a small town, and the only clues are a series of cryptic messages left at the crime scene.
A woman wakes up in a hospital with no memory of who she is or how she got there.
A detective investigates a series of murders that seem to be connected to a dark conspiracy.
How to write a book in the Mystery genre?
If you're looking to add a bit of mystery to your next comic book, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure your cast characters are enigmatic. They should be keeping secrets from each other, and the reader should only have partial information about their motivations and backstories. Second, use symbolically loaded imagery to hint at hidden depths. A character might find a key hidden in a shadow, for example, or glimpse a figure in a dark alleyway. Third, create a sense of foreboding by using ominous language and foreshadowing future events. By following these tips, you can craft a comic book that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Romance
Romance novels are all about the relationship between two or more people. They can be historical romances, contemporary romances, or even futuristic romances.
Generally, stories in this book genre follow the same basic story arc: characters meet, characters fall in love, characters encounter some sort of obstacle, and characters overcome the obstacle and live happily ever after. Of course, there are variations on this theme, but that's the broad strokes.
Romance books often have a lot of emotion and sometimes even a bit of suspense. If you're looking for a book genre that will make you feel all the feels, a romance book is probably what you're looking for.
Story ideas in the Romance book genre to use in your next book:
A woman falls in love with a man who is hiding a dark secret.
A closeted boy falls in love with his best friend.
A woman is torn between two men: the safe choice and the one who is "out of her league."
How to write a book in the Romance genre?
Love stories have been a staple of comic books (giving comics as gifts can be very romantic) for almost as long as the medium has existed. One key thing to remember is that, unlike in real life, comic book romances often move at a breakneck pace. In just a few panels, two characters can go from being complete strangers to being deeply in love.
As a result, in this book genre, it's important to have a clear idea of where you want your story to go before you start writing. Are your characters destined to be together, or will they ultimately end up going their separate ways? Once you've decided on the direction of your story, you can start filling in the details. What obstacles do your characters face? What does their relationship look like? How does it change over time? By answering these questions, you can craft a comic book romance that will stay with readers long after the last page is turned. Giving comic as gifts can be very romantic
Dystopian Fiction
A dystopian book genre is a type of literary fiction where the world is not the way we want it to be. It's usually set in the future, and it often explores what would happen if society took a turn for the worse. Dystopian books are usually warnings about what could happen if we're not careful. They often explore themes like government politics, unchecked human ambition, and even the end of the world.
Story ideas in the Dystopian book genre to use in your next book:
A woman finds out she's pregnant in a world where children are no longer born.
A man discovers that he's the only one who can remember the world before it became a dystopian nightmare.
A group of people rebels against an oppressive government regime.
How to write a book in the Dystopian genre?
In other book genres, the world is often divided into two clear camps: the good guys and the bad guys. But what if there was a third option? Enter the world of dystopia. In a dystopian society, there is plenty of opportunity for moral conflict, anti-heroes, and walking in the grey area. If you're looking to add a bit of dystopia to your next comic book, here are some tips.
First, choose a theme or topic that can be transformed into a setting. A good dystopia often has the setting at the forefront, forcing the character and events to operate in the context of that setting.
Next, create believable characters. What type of people does this society produce. Are these people complacent or are there grumblings of a revolution? Is there classism, racism, sexism? Who are the people fighting against the system?
Finally, consider the ending. A dystopian story often asks the question: is there hope?
Creating a dystopian novel is about examining society and creating a story that will make readers think about the world around them. It's a chance to explore what could happen if we're not careful.
Children's books
Children's books are books that are specifically written for children. They are often intended to teach young children about specific topics, such as numbers or colors. Children's books can overlap with other book genres. While many children's books are intended for a specific age group, some are classics for all ages.
Story ideas in the Children's book genre to use in your next book:
1. A young girl learns and discovers the weather.
2. A boy gets lost in the city and must find his mom.
3. A family goes on a beach vacation and discovers sea creatures.
4. A girl gets a new puppy to take care of
How to write a book in the Children's book genre?
Writing in the children's books genre is a lot of fun, but it's also a lot of work. If you're thinking about writing a book for kids, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, you need to know your audience. Are you writing for toddlers, elementary school kids, or tweens? Each age group has different expectations and preferences when it comes to reading material.
Once you've decided who your book is for, you need to come up with a good story. Kids' books are usually pretty short, so you'll need to make sure your plot is tight and fast-paced.
In terms of style, children's books are usually written in simple language that is easy to understand. However, that doesn't mean they have to be boring. Use your imagination and have fun with it!
Contemporary Fiction
If you're a fan of novels that are set in the present day, then you're a fan of the contemporary fiction genre. This genre includes books that deal with current issues and events, which makes them highly relatable for readers.
While contemporary fiction doesn't have to be set in the same year it was published, it is usually set in the years leading up to the present day. This allows authors to explore current issues in-depth and provide readers with a new perspective on the world around them.
Story ideas in the Contemporary fiction book genre to use in your next book:
A top marketing executive falls from grace, will she ever be able to put her life back together again?
Jake is a liar, he has lied his entire life. But, he tells a lie that can't be untold. Can he keep up the facade for the rest of the year or will he spend the next four years a fraud?
Emma is a high school senior who has it all figured out, but when she's rejected from her dream college everything changes.
How to write a book in the Contemporary genre?
Contemporary fiction is all about writing what's happening right now. That means keeping your finger on the pulse of current trends and using them as inspiration for your stories.
To write in the contemporary fiction comic book genre, start by thinking about what's happening in the world around you. What are people talking about? What are the hot topics? Once you've identified a few potential themes, start brainstorming ideas for stories that could explore those themes. When you're ready to start writing, bring your stories to life by creating complex characters and realistic dialogue. Next add some tension and conflict to keep readers engaged, and be sure to wrap things up with a satisfying ending. And don't forget to infuse your stories with a healthy dose of emotion! By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to writing contemporary fiction that's sure to resonate with readers.
Non-fiction Genre
Non-fiction is a genre of writing that deals with real people, places, events, and issues. The one thing that all non-fiction books have in common is that they are based on fact. This means that the author has researched the subject matter or has personal experience that can be verified. Non-fiction books can be about any topic, from history to science to travel. However, they all share one common goal: to inform the reader about something real. These popular non-fiction genres are listed below.
Memoirs
A memoir is a type of autobiography, but while an autobiography focuses on the entirety of a person's life, a memoir tends to focus on one particular event or experience. In many cases, a memoir is written in order to share a personal story in the hopes of helping or inspiring others.
Memoirs can be Serious or funny, heartwarming or heartbreaking, but they all offer a glimpse into another person's life. And while they may not always be entirely accurate, they provide an opportunity for us to connect with others on a deep and personal level.
Story ideas in the Memior book genre to use in your next book:
A woman looks back on her life and how it was shaped by the many different people she loved.
A man recalls the defining moments of his life, from his childhood in poverty to his successful career in business.
A woman tells the story of her battle with cancer, and how it changed her perspective on life.
How to write a book in the Memoir genre?
The first step to writing a memoir is to decide what story you want to tell. What event or experience from your life do you want to share? Once you've decided on a topic, start by brainstorming all the different aspects of the story you want to include. What are the key characters and locations? What happened before and after the event in question? What was your role in the story? And most importantly, what lessons did you learn?
Once you have a good understanding of the story you want to tell, start writing. Don't worry about getting everything perfect, just focus on getting the story down on paper. You can always go back and revise later.
When writing your memoir, be sure to use plenty of vivid detail to bring the story to life for readers. And be sure to infuse your own voice and personality into the story. After all, this is your memoir!
Self-help
A self-help book is a book genre that is intended to provide advice or guidance on topics such as dating, relationships, conflict resolution, managing stress, improving self-esteem, and more. Usually, these books are written by authors who have personal experience with the topics they are writing about.
Story ideas in the Self- help book genre to use in your next book:
A former speaker shares how to your fears and became more confident.
A divorcee who found love, tells the story of how he healed his broken relationship with himself before he could find love again.
A woman who overcame an eating disorder shares her story of recovery and provides advice for others struggling with similar issues.
How to write a book in the Self-help genre?
When writing in the self-help book genre, it's important to focus on one specific topic. Pick a topic that you are passionate about and that you have personal experience with. Once you've chosen a topic, start by doing some research. What are the latest findings on the subject? What do experts say? Then, start brainstorming different ways to approach the topic. What are some common problems people face? What are some possible solutions? Once you have a good understanding of the topic, start writing. Be sure to focus on providing practical advice that people can use in their everyday lives.
History
A history book is a genre of book that covers the events of the past. These books can cover a wide range of topics, from wars and revolutions to the history of specific cultures or countries. History books are usually written by historians, who use primary and secondary sources to piece together the story of the past.
However, there are also many primary documents under the history genre. These books often diaries or journals by historical figures.
Whether you're looking for a detailed account of the past or a more personal story, there's is a book in this genre for you.
Story ideas in the History book genre to use in your next book:
A history of fashion through the ages.
A history of the world in 100 objects.
The history of the American Revolution is told through the stories of those who were there.
How to write a book in the history genre?
When writing the history genre, it's important to start by doing your research. Read as many books and articles on the subject as you can. Then, start organizing your material. What are the main events you want to cover? What are the most important details? Once you have a good understanding of the topic organize your sources and be sure to focus on providing a clear and accurate account of the past.
Biography
A biography is the story of a person's life, written by someone else. Biographies can be about anyone - from historical figures to present-day celebrities. They often focus on someone who has made a significant impact on society, either for good or for ill.
Many biographies are written in order to share the subject's story with the world, in the hope that others will learn from their example. Others are more focused on providing an intimate look at the subject's life, offering readers a unique insight into their thoughts and experiences. Regardless of their approach, all biographies strive to capture the essence of their subject's life and offer readers a greater understanding of who they were.
Story ideas in the Biography book genre to use in your next book:
The life of Mahatma Gandhi told through the stories of those who knew him best.
A biography of Leonardo da Vinci that focuses on his art and science.
The life of Anne Frank: told through the letters she wrote during her time in hiding.
How to write a book in the Biography genre?
When writing a biography, it's important to start by doing your research. Read as many books and articles on the subject as you can. Then, start organizing your material. What are the main events you want to cover? What are the most important details? Once you have a good understanding of the topic, think about what you would like the reader to take away from this person's life story. Do you want them to learn from their example? Or gain a greater understanding of their thoughts and experiences? Once you have a clear idea of your purpose, start writing. Be sure to focus on providing an accurate and honest account of the person's life.
Literary Mediums (both fiction & non-fiction)
There are many different literary mediums that authors can choose to write in. The most common medium is probably prose, which is just normal writing without any kind of special formatting or rhyme scheme. However, there are also comic books, graphic novels, and comic strips, which often use both pictures and words to tell their story. Then there are poems, which use rhyme and meter to create a musical effect, and plays, which are intended to be performed on stage. In addition, there are things like essays and speeches, which are designed to be read aloud, and letters, which are written to be read by a specific person. Each medium has its own strengths and weaknesses, and authors must choose the right one for their particular purpose. To learn the difference between comics, comic books & graphic novels
How are Literary Mediums different from Genres?
Genres are categories of literature that are based on the content, style, or form of a work. Literary mediums, on the other hand, are the ways in which a work can be presented. It is the literary medium that determines how the work will be presented, not the genre. While genres can be thought of as the type of stories that are being told. In other words, genres are the "WHAT" and literary mediums are the "HOW".
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many book genres & types of books to choose from for your next story, comic book, or graphic novel. Whether you choose fiction or non-fiction, consider using an online comic book maker to tell your next story.
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