As we move into 2024, several book themes are capturing the imagination of readers in the UK and today, we will take a look at the top book themes 2024. These themes are popular and reflect the current zeitgeist, resonating deeply with contemporary issues and interests. Here’s a detailed look at the top five trending themes, how to write for them, and some book titles set to trend.
1. Historical Epics
Historical fiction continues to be a favourite among readers. It provides an escape into different eras and allows for the exploration of significant historical events through engaging narratives.
Concept: Historical epics often revolve around major historical events or periods, blending factual accuracy with fictional storytelling. They offer readers a window into the past, making history accessible and relatable.
How to Write for This Theme: Research is crucial. Authenticity in depicting the era, from language to societal norms, is essential. Developing complex characters who navigate these historical landscapes adds depth to the story.
Ideas:
A novel set during the suffragette movement.
A saga about the fall of the Berlin Wall and its impact on families.
Trending Titles:
Caledonian Road by Andrew O’Hagan is a state-of-the-nation novel that spans multiple social worlds in post-Brexit Britain (The Independent) (The Independent).
The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang is set against the backdrop of the San Francisco earthquake (Book Club Chat).
Motivational Quote: "History will be kind to me for I intend to write it." – Winston Churchill
2. Psychological Thrillers
Psychological thrillers delve into the human psyche, exploring themes of fear, obsession, and the complexities of the human mind. This genre remains popular for its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Concept: These stories often feature unreliable narrators, intricate plots, and unexpected twists. They explore the darker aspects of human nature and the psychological underpinnings of behaviour.
How to Write for This Theme: Create multi-layered characters with hidden depths and motivations. Build suspense through pacing and plot twists, and use psychological insights to make the characters' actions believable.
Ideas:
A thriller about a detective with amnesia trying to solve a case from her past.
A story where a therapist starts doubting their sanity after a patient’s mysterious disappearance.
Trending Titles:
Yellowface by Rebecca F Kuang, a literary thriller that critiques identity and authorship (The Independent).
Motivational Quote: "The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them." – Ernest Hemingway
3. Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi)
Climate fiction, or cli-fi, addresses the impact of climate change and environmental issues. This genre is gaining traction as readers become more concerned about the planet's future.
Concept: Cli-fi often projects current environmental trends into the future, presenting dystopian scenarios or focusing on humanity's resilience and adaptation.
How to Write for This Theme: Incorporate scientific facts and plausible scenarios. Highlight the human element by focusing on how individuals and communities respond to environmental challenges.
Ideas:
A dystopian future where water scarcity leads to global conflict.
A narrative about a scientist racing against time to prevent an ecological disaster.
Trending Titles:
New works are anticipated from established authors in the genre, and upcoming voices are focusing on environmental narratives.
Motivational Quote: "The Earth does not belong to us. We belong to the Earth." – Chief Seattle.
4. Romantic Comedies
Romantic comedies (romcoms) offer a blend of humour and heartwarming romance, providing a light-hearted escape for readers.
Concept: Rom-coms typically involve quirky characters, humorous situations, and the ups and downs of romantic relationships. They often culminate in a feel-good resolution.
How to Write for This Theme: Focus on witty dialogue and relatable characters. Incorporate humorous misunderstandings and romantic tension that leads to a satisfying conclusion.
Ideas:
A story about two rival chefs who fall in love while competing in a cooking show.
A tale of an unlikely couple who meet through a series of online dating mishaps.
Trending Titles:
Funny Story by Emily Henry is a tale of an ex moving in with her ex's ex, promising plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments (The Independent).
Motivational Quote: "You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams." – Dr Seuss
5. Social Satire
Social satire uses humour, irony, and exaggeration to critique societal norms and issues. This genre is perfect for readers who enjoy thoughtful, reflective, and often humorous takes on contemporary life.
Concept: Social satire highlights the absurdities of societal behaviours and institutions, often advocating for change through its critical perspective.
How to Write for This Theme: Use wit and irony to expose societal flaws. Create exaggerated scenarios that reflect real-world issues, encouraging readers to think critically.
Ideas:
A novel about a tech startup’s absurd rise and fall.
A satire on the complexities of modern dating in the digital age.
Trending Titles:
Caledonian Road by Andrew O’Hagan, which tackles issues of post-Brexit Britain with humor and insight (The Independent) (The Independent).
Motivational Quote: "Satire is a sort of glass, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own." – Jonathan Swift
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