Popular fiction (also known as category fiction) makes up 55% of all books sold, according to the Book Industry Study Group. This includes thrillers, romances, books for women, crime stories, science fiction, mysteries, detective books, horror, adventure, Westerns, fantasy, and literary fiction. Everyone seems to have a favorite genre.

Publishers and agents often check Amazon, forums, review spots, and blogs for the best self-published books they can scoop up and turn into best sellers. And let’s not forget that Hollywood is always on the lookout for its next big screen project. Popular fiction is where the producers, directors, and actors go to search. The computer- gaming industry is also keen on popular fiction.

Here’s an interesting note: according to Harris Interactive, a leading market research firm, of those who read fiction, 50% read mystery, thriller, and crime books; 25% read science fiction and literature; 20% read romance; 10% read graphic novels; 8% read chick lit; and 5% read Westerns.  

Of those who read nonfiction books, 30% read histories and biographies; 25% read religious and spirituality books; 17% read political books; 16% read self-help books; 14% read about current affairs; 12% read true crime; and 10% read business books.