Fiction vs. Nonfiction: Volume I
What is the war between fiction and nonfiction? And what one universal truth do the two sides share in common?
Short version:
In my 7 years of working in publishing, I’ve learned there is a divide between fiction authors and nonfiction authors. But one truth applies to both sides: The Best Story Wins. ⬇️
Medium version:
Seven years ago, I found my way into the publishing industry. And discovered a raging civil war…
(And no, it’s not about the Oxford comma.)
But a deep divide exists between fiction and nonfiction authors.
People have pledged their allegiances and drawn battle lines.
Then you got people like me who love both Fiction and Nonfiction, standing in the middle to try and broker peace.
So in this new series, I’m going to share my observations of this war.
But first, a caveat:
***These are all generalizations. Exceptions abound.***
Yet in these generalizations, there are some truths we can learn from.
Starting with the universal truth shared by both sides:
The Best Story Wins.
For a second, forget prose. Forget style. And forget marketability.
No matter your genre, topic, or audience—Storytelling is what makes a great book, period.
So if you are committed to the cause of fiction, I dare you to step out of your comfort zone and read a nonfiction book this month. Need a suggestion?
Try The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown.
If, on the other hand, you wave the banner of nonfiction, give yourself a break and try some fiction. Need a suggestion?
Try The Orphan Master’s Son by Adam Johnson.
In Volume II of this series, I’m going to plunge right into the deep end with my greatest pet peeve about both fiction and nonfiction authors.
If you’re a paid subscriber, scroll down for a preview. (Lucky you.)
Got a burning question about book writing? Then book a free 20-minute Q&A.
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