More than likely, we have all read a fiction book of the Fantasy genre before. Many of us probably had parents or grandparents that read them to us as small children, but are you aware of the amazing things the genre can do? What about why it is so popular and important?
There are four categories in the realm of fantasy genre, and they are as follows: Portal-quest, Immersive, Intrusion, and Liminal. All of these are a result from the protagonist's relationship to the fantasy world they are in. Each of these categories provides a different prospective for the reader.
Reading fantasy fiction can increase vocabulary range and stimulate
creativity, not only in children, but also in adults. For adults, fantasy
fiction can provide an escape from the otherwise very stressful
world we live in today. This release can help readers to indirectly
resolve emotional conflicts and even alleviate anxieties they may be
feeling.
Reading a genre where anything you can imagine is possible,
allows the mind of the readers to expand their understanding and oppinions
on many different ideas and concepts. Fantasy fiction also helps to build
and strengthen complex and critical thinking skills and problem
resolution.
Many notable and recognizable television shows, movies, and plays are based on fantasy books. The authors of these books are able to build whole new worlds with minutiae details. This skill of conveying such detail to build entirely new worlds is nothing short of an art form. This art of creating an entire detailed world in the mind, and then being able to describe it with words is truly breath-taking. There are many popular fantasy authors throughout time that have made a name for themselves because of their ability to use their words so eloquently, and some were even inspired to become authors by other, older fantasy authors.
J. R. R. Tolkien: Author to
The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings
Two series that have been made into a series of very popular movies,
and are said to have inspired George R. R. Martin to write his own
fantasy book.
Robert Jorden: Author to The Wheel of Time
A series so complex he passed before he could finish it. He was so
dedicated to his work that he left detailed notes on how he wanted it
to be finished, and Brandon Sanderson did just that.
George R. R. Martin: Author to Game of Thrones
A series that is still being written today and has been turned into a
popular HBO series. This series is set to also have a prequel series.