A literary genre is a category that classifies written works based on shared characteristics, themes, or styles. Common genres include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama. Each genre has its own conventions, such as narrative structure, tone, and purpose, which help readers understand what to expect from a work. Genres can be further divided into subgenres. For example, fiction includes science fiction, fantasy, and mystery, while poetry can encompass lyric, narrative, and epic forms. Understanding literary genres helps readers choose books that align with their interests and enhances their appreciation of different writing styles.