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ENG 4560 Young Adult Literature: Genre Definitions

Genre Definitions

Nonfiction or Informational texts present documented facts on any aspect of the physical, biological, or cultural world.

Biographies, Autobiographies, and Memoirs provide detailed descriptions of a person’s life.

Realistic Fiction portrays stories that could occur to characters in a believable setting. Realistic fiction often discusses issues that children confront in their everyday lives.

Historical Fiction features feature fictionalized accounts of actual historical figures, events, or places.

Traditional Literature features stories (myths, legends, folktales, fairy tales, etc. ) passed down to teach lessons and impart wisdom.

Fantasy features magical and/or supernatural elements as part of the plot, setting, or theme.

Science Fiction features futuristic elements that are within the realm of scientific probability and/or the laws of nature.

Poetry is the artistic expression of ideas and feelings through carefully selected words that may or may not be rhythmical or rhyming.

IMC Bibliographies

The IMC booklists cover a range of books representing various awards, themes, and genres including the following: 

  • Caldecott, Newbery, Coretta Scott King, Sibert, Pura Belpre, and Geisel awards
  • Realistic Fiction
  • Historical Fiction
  • Poetry
  • Biographies 
  • Traditional Literature
  • Science Fiction & Fantasy 
  • Social Issues
  • Culture in the United States
  • International Culture

Want More Info?

If you are looking for more in-depth information about genres, visit our Children's Literature Genre Guide.

IMC Librarian

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Margaret Gregor
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Contact:
828-262-8088
gregormn@appstate.edu
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Education Librarian

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Jewel Davis
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Contact:
828.262.2791
Belk Library IMC Room 033
davisja5@appstate.edu
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