Fantasy / Science Fiction

 Fantasy fiction is a genre that does not follow the laws of physical reality and Science Fiction is a subgenre of fantasy. The criteria to follow when evaluating Science Fiction and Fantasy are very simple.  First of all, it is important to know that even though there are fantastic aspects, the characters must behave in believable ways. With this in mind, the rules for the fantasy world should without a doubt be implemented. Also, the author must assist the readers to believe and comprehend the story. Finally, universal truths must always be explored in the themes. Many examples of Science Fiction books were presented and it clearly reveals that there is something for everyone. Apocalyptic and post apocalyptic books fall under this genre. Titles include The Testing, Tumble & Fall, and Monument 14. Also books like Ashfall, Life as We Knew It, Grasshopper Jungle, and Pure.  Steampunk, Cyberpunk, and Bio punk fall into this category as well. Killer of Enemies, Etiquette & Espionage, and Something Strange & Deadly are some titles that are presented as steampunk. The Hunger Games is an example of Dystopia. Dystopia has many characteristics but one that is commonly seen in books is resistance to the government. Another type that was discussed was Extra- Sensory Perception (ESP). These books could contain telepathy, clairvoyance and precognition. Robots, androids, cyborgs and artificial intelligence are another category. Finally books about aliens are also classified under science fiction.

I was stunned to find so many different categories under the genre of Fantasy/Science Fiction. There is definitely something for everyone. It is important that as librarians, we understand all the different categories that fall under fantasy/science fiction in order to recommend books to young adults especially those that say they don’t like science fiction without knowing there is so much under the umbrella.