Helping kids discover reading genres that interest them makes the search for new books much easier. For instance, if kids understand that the Harry Potter series falls into the fantasy genre, then they can ask a librarian to recommend other fantasy books. It also helps them identify and convey what kind of readers they are. When someone asks what type of books they like, they might respond with, “I enjoy reading historical fiction,” or “I prefer poetry.”
Exposure to different genres opens your child's eyes to the enormous range of books that are available. Here are 10 popular reading genres, defined, to share with your young reader — along with book suggestions for each.
Looking to further build your home library? Here are books teachers recommend you have on hand, and expert-approved picks for beginner readers. Shop all book genres at The Scholastic Store.
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Realistic Fiction
Defined: A genre of stories that are made up but could very well happen in real life. These stories often take place in settings familiar to your child — like schools — which makes them more relatable. (Here are books about elementary school that kids love!)