How to Choose a Book by Genre
Here are a few basics tips that will help you evaluate whether a genre is suitable for the young readers in your life.
Comic books are essentially longer versions of the short strips found in newspapers. Graphic novels are more complex, book-length comic books, suitable for more advanced readers. The intricate illustrations found in these books encourage children and young adults to appreciate the melding of language and visual art. Comic books and graphic novels cover a variety of genres, including autobiography, biography, historical fiction, humour, fantasy, non-fiction, and superhero. Here’s what to look for in a comic book or graphic novel:
- •
Age-appropriate material. Comics and graphic novels exist for both adults and children.
- •
Quality of the characters, plot development, dialogue, and pacing.
- •
Quality of the illustrations, colouring, and lettering.
- •
Awards and recognition received. Major industry awards include the Eisner, Harvey, Kirby, and Wright awards.
- •
Tie-ins to TV shows, movies, novel series, and video games the reader already loves.
- •
Comic books or graphic novels about real people. Autobiographical and biographical books can help young readers become familiar with the experiences of others.
- •
Non-fiction Comic or Graphic Novels. Books that present factual information in a fun and exciting way are valuable tools for young learners.
Here’s what to look for in books for reluctant readers:
- •
A main character that the reader can relate closely with.
- •
Fast-paced books full of action and adventure.
- •
Books that are part of a longer series. A book series can offer comfort to a reader by allowing them to return to the same world and characters.
- •
Books that exist in isolation. A standalone book is a good way to spark new interest.
- •
Non-fiction books that use appealing visuals to create a sense of curiosity in young readers.
- •
Books with facts, jokes, stories, and puzzles. These features make it easy for a reader to jump in and out of a book whenever they like.
- •
Science fiction and fantasy books that let readers explore new and exciting worlds.
- •
Comic books and graphic novels that tell engaging stories through a combination of words and illustrations.
- •
Books that appeal to the reader’s specific interests. For example: sports, music, film, technology, and other hobbies.
- •
Books with humour that appeals to a reader’s sense of fun.
It also provides children with a more personal understanding of different time periods and the world’s significant events. Whether a child wants to learn about World War I, the Middle Ages, or the Great Depression, historical fiction can be the perfect time machine. Here’s what to look for in a historical fiction book:
- •
Books in which the author is writing from research rather than personal experience.
- •
Writing that seamlessly weaves historical facts and thrilling storylines together.
- •
Books that contain accurate historical information and vivid details.
- •
Books that help the reader better understand the differences (and parallels) between the past and present.
- •
Books that include compelling characters that transcend time, and speak to readers in a way they can understand.
- •
Balanced viewpoints and multiple perspectives on historical events.
- •
Writing that avoids stereotypes.
Good non-fiction books make factual information exciting and interesting. Vivid biographies and true stories of adventure can inspire a reader’s imagination as powerfully as a good novel. Factual books can move readers to tears and laughter, while teaching useful lessons along the way. Here’s what to look for in a non-fiction book:
- •
Information presented in an age-appropriate manner. Younger readers need a book that’s clear and approachable, while older readers need a book that’s more in-depth.
- •
Accuracy of information. Flip through the book to make a quick spot check for accuracy. If you find any errors, you should doubt the level of accuracy overall.
- •
Up-to-date information. Check the date of publication and make certain you’re getting the most current information available.
- •
Well-organized information. A logical layout leads to a deeper understanding of the subject.
- •
High-quality illustrations and photographs that are appropriate for the text.
- •
Writing conveys a sense of enthusiasm and energy for the material. If the author is excited about the topic, that excitement can pass through to a young reader.
- •
The authority and qualifications of the author writing the book.
These books are fun to read and introduce children to new hobbies, activities and experiences. Some things-to-do books provide step-by-step instructions that can be followed with items found around the house, while others require special materials that need to be purchased beforehand. There are even things-to-do books that already come with all the materials needed to carry out the projects. Here’s what to look for in a things-to-do book:
- •
Creative ideas that will introduce a reader to activities and crafts they’ve never seen before.
- •
Clear “How-to” sections. Instructions should be easy to follow, concise, and engaging to make sure the book keeps the reader’s interest.
- •
Books that balance detailed text with step-by-step illustrations or photographs.
- •
Books that are divided into chapters or have indexes. These tools make it easier to find favourite activities and crafts.
- •
Books that use inexpensive materials. If materials can be found around the house or in local retail stores, it will be easier to complete the project.
Reading poetry to children every day can make them more excited about words and language. Encouraging children to write their own poetry can also offer them a new avenue for self-expression. Here’s what to look for in a poetry book:
- •
Poetry that is accessible, interesting, and written for children.
- •
Poems that start with engaging lines and offer an exciting build up.
- •
Poems with careful word-choice and rhythmic patterns.
- •
Poems that are funny and irreverent, or serious and whimsical.
- •
Poems that are fun to read aloud.
- •
Interactive poems that get kids jumping, clapping, and dancing.
- •
Poetry anthologies that introduce children to a variety of poetry styles, and a diverse selection of poets.
Well-written fantasy novels help children expand their imaginations by introducing them to dream-like worlds that have their own politics, economics, religions, and customs. These worlds seem different on the surface, but they are often a window into the world we live in. These similarities allow them to explore important topics in an exciting and accessible way. Here’s what to look for in a fantasy novel:
- •
Books that encourage young readers to dream and imagine.
- •
Well-developed characters, including inspiring heroes and convincing villains.
- •
Strong female characters that avoid stereotypes and are active in the story.
- •
Books that explore the line between right and wrong, and require children to seriously evaluate the actions of the characters.
- •
Books that give enough information for a reader to understand the world they are being introduced to.
- •
Books that contain maps of fictional worlds, glossaries of fictional languages, and pronunciation guides.
Mystery and detective novels not only entertain readers—they also help them practice their critical-thinking skills. They capture the reader’s attention with suspenseful, clever plot lines, and keep them engrossed with likeable detective characters. Here’s what to look for in mystery and detective fiction:
- •
Books that require the reader to pay close attention, and use their critical and analytical thinking skills.
- •
Plausible and well-researched cases.
- •
Solve-it-yourself cases that give the reader a chance to crack the case before the detective does.
- •
Books that are a part of a series, so that your child can find a favourite detective and follow their adventures.
- •
Well-designed characters whose actions are consistent with their personalities. Detectives, suspects, and witnesses should not act out of character because the plot demands it.
- •
An exciting, well-written story with several twists.