Nonfiction is a genre of literature that is based on real events, facts, research, and personal experiences. Such books harmoniously combine informational value with a captivating style of presentation, which makes them popular among readers with different interests. So, let's take a closer look at what nonfiction is , the main genres of nonfiction literature , and finally, we will recommend popular nonfiction examples - bestsellers for adults and teenagers.
How does non-fiction differ from fiction ? Non -fiction: what is it ?
Unlike fiction , non-fiction is distinguished by a more pragmatic presentation of information. Authors of fiction often captivate the reader with mysteries, intricate plots, and a unique style that sometimes requires adaptation on the part of the reader. In contrast, in non-fiction books for a wide audience, authors strive to explain complex topics as simply as possible, emphasize key points, and supplement the material with tables and illustrations. Exceptions may be complex scientific works or philosophical texts that are aimed at a narrow circle of readers, such as students or scientists.
Nonfiction also includes narrative works, where authors present a topic in an interesting and accessible way, often sharing their own experiences. Unlike fiction, these books are based on verified facts, documents, letters, interviews with eyewitnesses, and other sources.
Non-fiction: main characteristics
Speaking about the basic characteristics of the non-fiction genre , one should understand the literal translation of this term. The English non-fiction comes from non - "not" and fiction - "fiction", "fiction". So, non-fiction is non- fiction. This term is used to denote a genre of literary journalism, which is based not on fictional plots, but on real facts. The main difference from ordinary journalism is a deep immersion in the problem, thanks to which the articles turn into non-fiction novels.
The genre of literary journalism emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century. It combined factual accuracy with artistic devices such as:
- onomatopoeia;
- rich dialogues;
- cinematic effect;
- detailed description of places, characters and events;
- reportage as a basis.
It can be difficult to draw the line between fiction and non-fiction. For many decades, there has been a noticeable tendency in the English- and German-speaking literary traditions to create historical and political non-fiction, drawing on family memory or personal experience. Such texts feature a protagonist and even a fictional plot, often based on the author's life story. This makes the book easier to read, but at the same time brings it closer to fiction to some extent. However, the reliance on real historical documents and eyewitness accounts keeps these works within the bounds of non-fiction .
A similar trend has been observed in Ukrainian literature in recent years, especially since the outbreak of the large-scale war. Readers expect literary texts to be more factual, documentary, and reflect real experiences that are important to talk about.
Nonfiction literature was studied by scholars such as E. Dennis, N. Sims, M. Weingarten, S. F. Fishkin, M. Kramer, B. Lonsberr, N. Mills. Among the prominent authors of fiction reporting, it is worth mentioning Michael Herr, Gay Tellis, and Joan Didion. Due to the large volume of their texts, they were published not in newspapers, but in magazines such as The New Yorker , Wall Street Journal , and Vanity Fair .
In Ukraine, non- fiction has gained popularity in recent decades, largely due to translated publications. Among Ukrainian authors who create fiction reports, one can single out Max Kidruk, Irena Karpa, Svitlana Pyrkalo, Maria Mytsyo, and others.
Why is it worth reading non-fiction ?
If anyone still thinks that non-fiction books are dry and emotionally detached literature that is not suitable for everyone. However, non-fiction literature is much more and here's why:
1. Broadening horizons.
Reading non-fiction helps you gain new knowledge in a variety of fields. Regardless of what you choose — an autobiography of a famous figure, a popular science book about microbes, or a historical study of Kievan Rus — you will learn interesting facts that enrich your worldview and make you a more interesting conversationalist.
2. Professional development.
Nonfiction is an affordable way to improve your skills. You can learn new things and return to them at any time. For example, writers can find inspiration in books on creative writing, as well as in other fields, from marketing to physics.
3. Development of critical thinking.
Nonfiction stimulates the brain to analyze and synthesize information. It helps you learn to think critically, look for connections between facts, and apply knowledge in practice.
4. Immersion in history.
Books about the past help you understand the cause-and-effect relationships of historical events. You can choose a biography of a famous person, or study entire eras through books. This is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the history of Ukraine and the world.
5. Practical life lessons.
Unlike fictional stories, non-fiction is about real-life events . You'll learn how people overcame challenges, made choices, and learned from their mistakes. These books not only tell about the trials they've experienced, but also help you understand how to move forward after trauma.
6. Inspiration from unique stories.
Despite the stereotype, non-fiction is not a dry and emotionless genre. It also has some fascinating stories. For example, Mark Inglis's book "Legless on Everest" tells how a man without both legs conquered the highest peak in the world. Such stories surprise, inspire and leave an unforgettable impression.
Recommendations from popular publications for a first date
If you are looking for books that are worth getting acquainted with first, we have a selection of such literature for you. In it you will find books for every taste and on every topic. You can read a short description of the book by following the links.
- “A Whiskey Odyssey: A Curious Bartender’s Guide to Malt, Rye, and Bourbon .” Tristan Stephenson.
- “The Story” . Robert McKee.
- “Chaos in Silicon Valley. Startups that broke the system .” Antonio Garcia Martinez.
- “How to Talk So That Young Children Will Listen. Survival with Children 2–7 Years Old .” Joanna Fiber.
- “How to Become an Artist: 60 Practical Tips .” Jerry Saltz.
- “Amazon and the Future of E-Commerce .” Natalie Berg.
- “The Buzzer Generation. How Brands Build Trust .” Gregg Witt.
- “Why So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders (and How to Change It?)” . Thomas Chamorro-Premuzik.
- “The Ugly Truth. Facebook: Behind the Scenes of the Battle for supremacy .” Cecilia Kang.
- “Netflix and the Culture of Innovation .” Reed Hastings.
- “Superintelligence. Strategies and Dangers of Developing Intelligent Machines .” Nick Bostrom.
- “Thinking fast and slow .” Daniel Kahneman.
- “Happily Ever After. Let Go of the Illusion of a Perfect Life .” Paul Dolan.
- “The Win-Win Strategy. How to Avoid Mistakes in Business .” Alan Lafley, Roger Martin.
- “The Emotional Intelligence of Leadership.” Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, Annie McKee.
Nonfiction books can be incredibly fascinating — the main thing is to choose a topic that interests you. You can find even more bestsellers among journalism, popular science books and reports in the Tyra online bookstore. Enjoy and be inspired by reading!