Adult readers of science fiction and fantasy: A qualitative study of reading preference and genre perception

The study draws on reader-response theory and uses qualitative methodology to investigate the reading experience of thirty-two adult readers of science fiction and/or fantasy. The primary research instrument is a taped unstructured interview, supplemented by card-sorting and book-selection tasks, and a short questionnaire. Interview transcripts are coded for relevant emergent categories using qualitative data analysis software. Discussion incorporates readers' responses in their own language. Analysis focuses on reader perception of the genres, how readers form a particular genre preference, why readers continue to read preferred genres, and what are the particular appeals of the science fiction and fantasy genres. The readers did not describe a single common definition for science fiction, fantasy or horror, although they may share articulated prototype concepts for the genres. The readers appear to use three primary perspectives to structure genre definitions (story content, author intent, reader response). Elements perceived as significant or unique include lack of constraint, use of created worlds, use of magic (fantasy), use of science (science fiction). Preference formation may occur within a structure of encounters with the genre, often involving mentored access to a collection and the reader's recognition of the genre as a meaningful and/or useful category. Recognition may be assisted by a process of association, in which the reader draws connections either among texts or between texts and aspects of the reader's emotional, intellectual or material life. Preference is maintained by the interaction of such factors as reliable reading success, reinforcement through social networks, acquisition and use of domain knowledge, and avoidance of effort. As the reader becomes more sophisticated in the genre, interest may decline as the reading experience becomes too familiar. The appeals of science fiction and fantasy may lie in the inherently contradictory nature of these genres. The main areas of contradiction are identified as difference, risk, advocacy and relevance. Choosing to read science fiction or fantasy allows the reader the opportunity to select among varied and contradictory reading experiences within a familiar genre. Conclusions have implications for reader studies, genre studies, and readers' advisory.