Reading Different Story Types

Every book you pick up is either fiction or nonfiction. These are the two main types of reading — and knowing which one you are reading helps you know what to expect and how to read it.

Fiction — made-up stories

• Fiction is invented — the author made it up.
• It has characters, a setting, and a plot (a beginning, middle, and end).
• Things can happen that are impossible in real life — animals can talk, people can fly, magic is real.
• The goal is to entertain you and take you to another world.
• Examples: fairy tales, adventure stories, talking-animal books, fantasy, fables.

Nonfiction — real information

• Nonfiction is true — it is about real people, places, animals, or events.
• It often has headings, labels, diagrams, and facts.
• Things must be accurate — the author cannot invent information.
• The goal is to inform you — to teach you something real.
• Examples: animal fact books, science books, biographies, how-to books.

Clue words to spot each type

• Fiction clues: once upon a time · one day · he said · she dreamed · magic · castle · talking animals
• Nonfiction clues: facts about · did you know · the largest · scientists say · how to · photographs