Insecure Writer’s Support Group – Genre Talk

It’s First Wednesday, so it’s time for another Insecure Writer’s Support Group post!

This month’s question is: What do you consider the best characteristics of your favorite genre?

I actually have two favorite genres: science fiction/fantasy and mystery. I think the best characteristics of sci-fi and fantasy are their creative ideas of what the future might be. I like reading about aliens and space travel and inclusivity and the maturation of the human race. Sci-fi, especially, can show how mankind may grow and mature as a species. Fantasy, with its diverse beings (elves, dwarves, etc), can also show inclusivity and tolerance. 

The best characteristic of a good mystery book is the chance to solve the mystery yourself before the fictional detective can reason it out. That keeps your brain young and offers a challenge that keeps you reading. I love a good mystery, especially if it’s set in an exotic area of the world or if it includes a marginalized culture that I may otherwise never encounter.

Of course, the best part of any story is the story itself. I don’t pick up a book based solely on these characteristics. The plot must be interesting to me. And the characters need to be logical, intriguing, and believable. I’m willing to take a chance on an unusual setting if the characters and plot are interesting enough.

What about you? What’s your favorite genre and why do you read it?