Characteristics of Nonfiction:
* Factual Accuracy: Nonfiction relies on verifiable information and evidence.
* Objective Perspective: While some forms can express opinions, the core focus is on presenting factual information.
* Real-World Subjects: Nonfiction explores real people, events, situations, and concepts.
* Purposeful Writing: It serves a specific purpose, whether to inform, explain, analyze, argue, or persuade.
Types of Nonfiction Writing:
Nonfiction spans a vast range of forms:
* News and Journalism: Reports on current events, investigative pieces, feature articles.
* Biographies and Autobiographies: Accounts of individuals' lives.
* History: Narratives and analyses of past events.
* Science and Nature Writing: Explanations of scientific concepts and natural phenomena.
* Travel Writing: Personal accounts of journeys and destinations.
* Memoir: Personal reflections on significant life experiences.
* Essays: Expository, persuasive, or reflective pieces on a variety of topics.
* How-To Guides and Self-Help Books: Practical instructions and advice.
* Cookbooks and Recipe Books: Instructions for cooking and baking.
* Reference Books: Dictionaries, encyclopedias, and almanacs.
* Literary Nonfiction: Combines literary techniques with factual accuracy to create engaging and evocative narratives.
Examples of Nonfiction Writing:
* "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot (Biography)
* "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari (History)
* "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson (Science and Nature Writing)
* "The New York Times" (News and Journalism)
* "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu (Military Strategy)
Key Takeaway: Nonfiction is about real life, real people, and real events. It uses factual information to inform, educate, and persuade its readers.