The opposite of fiction are non-fiction books, non-fiction are books with stories or information that is true, real and actually happened or happens. 

Non-fiction genres range from the instructional to the historical. You can learn to cook, learn about the past, or learn about cool facts from non-fiction books.

Below are some common non-fiction genres in children’s literature:

Biography/Autobiography

Both biographies and autobiographies tell the true story of a person’s life, but autobiographies were written by that same person. If you come across a person in history class or in the news that you find interesting, check and see if they have a biography written about them. Some famous children’s biographies include I Got This (the autobiographical story of Olympic gold medal winner Laurie Hernandez) Messi: A Boy Who Became A Star. Inspiring children book about Lionel Messi – one of the best soccer players in history. (Soccer Book For Kids), and Who Was Anne Frank?

Science / Nature

Books about science, the world around us and nature intrigue many young readers. Some suggestions are: Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11, and 1 Interesting fact a day: 366 interesting facts from around the world to read with the family (A book for kids 8-12 who want to learn something new and surprising about the world every day).

Travel Writing

Travel writing is a form of literature that consists of written works devoted to travel journeys, discovering lands, places, and all about journeys to untouched adventurous spots. Some suggestions are: Lonely Planet Kids Around the World in 50 Ways 1, Thea Stilton and the Riddle of the Ruins and The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid, a thrilling expedition to 100 of the most surprising, mysterious, and weird-but-true places on earth.

History

History is the study of the past. The study of history helps make sense of humankind. It also helps people understand the things that happen today and that may happen in the future and these books are about events that actually happened in the past. For children who love history and want to learn more it’s worth looking into these books: Great Battles for Boys: Ww2 Pacific, When We Became Humans: Our incredible evolutionary journey, Where Once We Stood: Stories of the Apollo Astronauts Who Walked on the Moon.

Self-Help

Books in the self-help non-fiction genre are based on one’s own effort and resources to achieve things and goals without relying on the help of others. Such books include: Justice Sonia Sotomayor and award-winning artist Rafael Lopez create a kind and caring book about the differences that make each of us unique – Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You. Gold NAPPA Winner (National Parenting Publications Awards) What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety guides children and parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques most often used in the treatment of anxiety.

What recommendations do you have for your favourite non-fiction genre? Leave a comment below.

Till next time…