Choosing the right genre for your book is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as an author. Your genre shapes your story, sets expectations for readers, and even influences how your book is marketed. Whether you’re drawn to fiction, non-fiction, or something in between, selecting the right genre is the first step in reaching your target audience and expressing your vision effectively.
Why Genre Matters
When you choose a genre, you’re not just picking a label—you’re defining the tone, style, and structure of your book. Readers gravitate toward specific genres because they know what to expect, and publishing within a genre helps you meet those expectations. For example, romance readers expect an emotionally satisfying ending, while mystery fans look for puzzles to solve.
Beyond fulfilling reader expectations, choosing your genre wisely impacts your book’s visibility. Booksellers, librarians, and online platforms categorize books by genre to help readers find them. Getting your genre right can make it easier for your book to stand out in a crowded market.
Explore Genre Categories
The world of genres is vast, ranging from tried-and-true categories like Mystery or Science Fiction to niche sub-genres like Space Opera or Cozy Mystery. If you’re uncertain about which genre fits your book, the BISAC Subject Headings List can be an invaluable resource. This list, developed by the Book Industry Study Group (BISG), categorizes books for the U.S. market and can help you narrow down the most appropriate genre for your work.
You can access the complete BISAC Subject Headings List here. Reviewing this list can help you find the exact category that aligns with your book’s themes and style, ensuring it’s discoverable by the right readers.
Steps for Choosing Your Genre
Identify Your Primary Themes: Reflect on your book’s key elements. Is it driven by romance, conflict, or historical events? Does it revolve around solving a mystery or exploring future technologies?
Understand Your Audience: Consider who you’re writing for. What are their preferences? A clear understanding of your target audience helps you select a genre that resonates with potential readers.
Research the Market: Investigate what’s trending in your potential genres. Are there successful authors or books in the genre you’re considering? Knowing the market can help you position your book more effectively.
Test the Waters: If your book blends multiple genres, don’t be afraid to experiment. “Genre-blending” books—like romantic thrillers or historical mysteries—can carve out a unique space in the market.
Use BISAC Codes: Once you’ve decided on a genre, use the BISAC Subject Headings List to find the most precise category for your book. Proper categorization not only helps with marketing but also ensures your book appears in the right digital and physical bookstores.
Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, selecting your genre is also about trusting your instincts as a writer. While market trends and reader expectations are important, your passion for your story is the driving force behind a successful book. Choose a genre that excites and challenges you—you’ll likely attract readers who are equally enthusiastic about your work.
In summary, picking the right genre involves a balance of understanding your story, knowing your audience, and navigating the book industry’s classification systems. By making an informed choice and utilizing resources like the BISAC list, you can set your book on the path to success in the literary marketplace.