Learn about Genres: Part 2

November 01, 2010

In the last genre blog, we looked into the genre of fantasy. Since fantasy is so closely related to science fiction, I figured that would be the perfect place to go next. So, today I have been learning about the genre of science fiction. Let’s delve right in, shall we?

First thing that I learned about science fiction is that it centers around technology of some sort. This could be technology far in the future such as space travel, or it could be the ability to time travel forward or backward in time. Here are a few of the main subgenres that are under science fiction. This list is by no means complete, but gives you a good place to start if you want to venture into this genre.

Alternate history
Brings up the question of what if difference choices or outcomes were made in our past?  This subgenre revisits history with a different ending.
Give me back my legions! By Harry Turtledove

Space Opera
Two words for you who wonder what Space Opera is. Star Wars. Star Wars is a perfect example of what a space opera is. It is usually set mainly in outer space, with large battles, large romances, and lots of action.
Vorkosigan saga, Ethan of Athos (bk. 1) By Lois McMaster Bujold

Time travel
This subgenre is exactly what is says. The characters time travel. However, that is where the specifications stop. Whether the time travel is to the future, the past, to both is not important.
Outlander series, Outlander (bk. 1) By Diana Gabaldon

Military Science Fiction
Focuses on the military forces of the future, the main characters will be members of those forces that are involved in a battle of some kind. Those battles will usually be in space, and oftentimes will involve the fate of worlds. It will also often focus on the military strategy used.
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card

Kathleen A. 
North Oak Branch