Types of stories: definitions (p.223)

memoir

A story based on the author’s life, written in the first person singular perspective, in which the author shares memories from a specific time period, or reflects upon a string of themed moments throughout their life.

epistolary or diary novel

A story told by means of letters or diary entries. It is told from the I-perspective, is mostly written in informal language and will likely include rhetorical questions and exclamations.

script / screenplay

A written version of a play or film, presenting the dialogue between characters as well as elaborate descriptions of places, events and settings.

graphic novel

A long-form, fictional work of sequential art in which the story is told through the interplay of text and illustrations. The use of dialogue bubbles, narration boxes as well as onomatopoeia is common.

airport novel

Fairly long novel, characterised by its popular style: fast-paced, and easy to read. This way of storytelling is commonly used by prolific writers who produce different versions of the same thing within their genre (thriller, romance, …).

autobiography

A story based on the author’s entire life, from beginning to end, written in the first person singular perspective; often concerning the identity of the self and including self-reflection and introspection.