Genre-Bending: How to Innovatively Blend Book Categories

A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Unique Narratives by Melding Literary Genres

Wilbur Greene
7 min readAug 8, 2023
Photo by Susan Q Yin

Genre-bending, as the term suggests, refers to the blending or merging of traditional literary genres to create something fresh and innovative. Instead of confining a story to the parameters of a single genre such as science fiction, romance, or mystery, genre-bending allows authors to explore multiple elements and conventions, thereby creating a unique blend of narratives.

This innovative approach to storytelling offers numerous benefits. It gives writers the freedom to transcend traditional genre limitations, providing a wider canvas on which they can paint their narratives. The fusion of genres often leads to compelling, unexpected stories that captivate readers, enticing them with their novelty and unpredictability. Furthermore, genre-bending can open up new markets and audiences, broadening a book’s appeal to fans of multiple genres.

However, genre-bending also presents its own set of challenges. Striking a balance between genres without losing coherence can be complex. It requires a deep understanding of the conventions and expectations of each genre involved. Additionally, blending genres may risk alienating readers who prefer the familiar structures and tropes…

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Wilbur Greene

Sydney-based writer, editor, & literary agent. Melbourne Uni alum, ex-HarperCollins & Creative Artists Agency. Now freelance writer & consultant.