10/16/2026
: What is a genre, and how do I identify one for my book?
A genre is the category your book fits into based on its style, purpose, and content. It helps readers know what to expect and helps bookstores, libraries, and online retailers know where to place it. Common genres include memoir, self-help, business, children’s books, fiction, and more.
To identify your genre, think about the main goal of your book and who you’re trying to reach. Ask yourself what readers will gain from it and what other books yours would sit beside on a shelf. If your book teaches, it may fall under self-help or business. If it tells your personal story to inspire others, it may be a memoir. If it blends elements, pick the genre that best reflects the book’s core message and reader experience. This makes it easier for the right audience to find you.