Word Count Matters
An often-overlooked aspect of writing is the question of how long a book should be. Word count matters as publishers consider a book’s word count when making an acquisition. In some cases, they may even ask an author to specifically reduce their word count through structural or other changes, prior to a work being published.
Manuscripts that are above and beyond the expected word count for their genre or age group may present as a riskier proposition for publishers, due to the costs of producing and printing. Readers also have expectations, and some may be daunted to choose a book that is greater than the average length.
While there can be exceptions to the rule, for example J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, I’ve listed below some guidelines around word counts. Ideally, the book length, language used, and reading level should be appropriate to the target audience in that genre or specific age group.
Picture book (0-500 words)
As the intended audience age can range from babies up to 8 years, picture books have short, easy-to-follow text and use illustrations to help tell the story.
Beginner reader (5,000-20,000 words)
These short chapter books are a step up for young readers aged 5-10 years, who are transitioning to reading longer books independently.
Middle Grade (30,000-50,000 words)
Middle grade books fall in the 8-12 year age bracket, and the word count can be structured towards both ends of that age range. However, it is worth noting that kids often like to read about characters who are slightly older than they are. In the UK, middle grade is also referred to as junior fiction.
Young adult (50,000-80,000 words)
Young Adult (YA) or New Adult novels are marketed to readers aged 12–18 years, and can cover all genres. These books focus more on societal and mental health themes, as characters reflect on the world and their place within it. The difference in middle grade and young adult can also be determined by the age of the protagonist.
Flash Fiction (under 500-1,500 words max.)
Flash Fiction, also known as minimalist or micro fiction, is a complete story that can range from a few sentences up to 1,500 words. It requires an efficient use of language and storytelling, and can be aimed to a target audience of young adults or adults. A well-composed piece of flash fiction will leave readers thinking long after the story ends.
Short Story (above 800-10,000 words max.)
Short stories typically focus on a simple theme or premise, with only a few characters, and an average length of 5,000 words. The general characteristics of a short story include brevity, coherence, and a linear narrative structure.
Novellas (10,000-40,000 words)
A novella is generally guided by a single problem or central conflict; focused on a small, manageable cast of characters; and told from one point of view. The first person point of view is often used in novellas to create an intimate relationship between the protagonist and the reader.
Other adult genres:
Self-help book (30,000-70,000 words)
Memoir (40,000-80,000 words)
Romance (50,000-100,000 words)
Crime/Mystery/Horror/Thriller (70,000-100,000 words)
Contemporary and Literary (80,000-100,000 words)
Sci-Fi Fantasy (90,000-120,000 words)
Historical (100,000-150,000 words)