There are literally millions of books out there, all vying for our attention. And if you’re a book blogger like me, then you’ve got a serious addiction to some good books, am I right?

But therein lies a simple question. What do you prefer to read, and why?

For some, it’s just a question of what sounds good, but others stick to certain genres. Today’s post is all about what book genres catch your fancy and why.

My Why

Personally, I tend to stick to a number of genres, but my tastes have distinctly changed in the past few years.

I still read mainly due to my need to escape reality.

I don’t run from my problems in the real world, but I find the hustle and bustle of reality to be a bit boring most of the time. I feel that reading takes me on an adventure that I otherwise wouldn’t get to experience in my life.

Otherworldly battles, magic, mystery, it’s all there in these magical pages, and the fun never has to end as long as great authors keep writing.

My Genre Picks

Fantasy

A genre of speculative fiction set in a fictional universe, often inspired by real world myth and folklore. Its roots are in oral traditions, which then became literature and drama (thanks Wikipedia!). 

For me, it all starts with fantasy. I’ve always loved fantastical worlds filled with magic, and I’ve been reading this genre my entire life. I don’t even plan on stopping. Definitely my top pick.

Horror

A genre of speculative fiction intended to frighten, scare, disgust, or startle its readers by inducing feelings of horror and terror. It creates an eerie and frightening atmosphere. 

Given the nature of most of my posts on here, you’d guess that I’ve been reading horror all my life, right? Actually, not at all!

While I’ve watched literally hundreds of horror movies, I’ve always lacked in the book department. During the past year, I’ve made a big point of reading more horror, as it truly is a love of mine that hasn’t fully been realized.

This is definitely a close second category that I am constantly on the lookout for adding into my TBR.

Science Fiction

A genre of speculative fiction that has been called the “literature of ideas”. It typically deals with imaginative and futuristic concepts such as advanced science and technology, time travel, parallel universes, fictional worlds, space exploration, and extraterrestrial life. It often explores the potential consequences of scientific innovations.

Like horror, I have a special connection with science fiction. I was raised by a family of Trekkies and Whovians (those who like Star Trek and Dr. Who), and have always had a huge appreciation for this genre.

But like horror, I haven’t read all that many science fiction novels in my life. Thanks to my friend M.D. Neu and other inspirational works of scifi, I am looking forward to reading more in this genre.

Thriller

A broad genre of literature, film and television, having numerous, often overlapping subgenres. Thrillers are characterized and defined by the moods they elicit, giving viewers heightened feelings of suspense, excitement, surprise, anticipation and anxiety.

For me, thrillers are a mid point between fantasy and horror. While I prefer some hard core horror, sometimes you need to take a small step back and enjoy something a little lighter.

For me, that’s thriller books. It still gets the heart pumping, but doesn’t give you a heart attack.

Young Adult

A category of fiction written for readers from 12 to 18 years of age. While the genre is targeted to teenagers, approximately half of YA readers are adults. The subject matter and genres of YA correlate with the age and experience of the protagonist.

I’m listing this one last, but it’s not least! I typically read at my age level, but I have been reading young adult books most of my life. The great part about reading Young Adult is that its an easy read compared to some books, so if you have a hard time with an adult-level book, it’s relaxing to just pick up a YA one and blaze through it.

There is plenty of YA on my shelves, so you’ll definitely see more there!

What About You?

How about you, fellow bibliomaniacs? Are you more carefree with your selections, or are there genres you simply can’t live without?

Feel free to share in the comments. I’d love to get a dialogue started!

Have a great day, and happy reading!