What’s America Reading? The Top Book Genres by State

Reading preferences in the United States vary greatly from coast to coast. To highlight which book genres captivate readers most across different states, Cloudwards conducted a comprehensive analysis of Google Trends data related to books and literature.

Some Key Findings:

• Romance dominates as the most popular genre, its appeal especially evident in southern states.
• Poetry shows surprisingly strong popularity, joining fiction (a rather broad umbrella) in second place.
• Fantasy’s popularity among states boasting prestigious universities and thriving tech sectors suggests a connection between innovation hubs and imaginative literature.
• The Northeast and Western states show the greatest diversity and variety among genre preferences, while the Midwest displays a stronger romance preference and the South shows a mix of romance, fiction and family literature.
• Coastal states generally demonstrate more eclectic tastes, while interior states show stronger preferences for romance and general fiction.

America’s Love Affair With Romance

Romance literature has established itself as America’s genre of choice, dominating search interest across nearly half the nation with 22 states ranking it as their most-searched genre.

What drives this widespread affection for romantic fiction? Several factors could be involved, including the genre’s emotional accessibility, happy endings and loyal readership. Romance readers are among the most voracious consumers of books, often reading multiple titles per
month.

Poetry’s Surprising Resurgence

In what may be the study’s most surprising revelation, poetry ranks as the most-searched literary category in nine states, challenging conventional wisdom about the genre’s popular appeal.

This unexpected poetry renaissance may reflect several cultural factors, including the rise of Instagram poets, growing interest in spoken word performances, and poetry’s resurgence as a form of political and social expression. Poetry’s strong showing in areas with striking natural landscapes like Alaska, Idaho and Vermont may also suggest a connection between poetic sensibility and natural beauty.

Imagination Rules in Tech and Education Hubs

Fantasy literature claims the top position in six states, with a geographic preference for states with significant technology sectors or major educational institutions.

The enduring popularity of fantasy may be attributed to its unparalleled world-building capabilities and capacity to address complex social issues through allegorical frameworks. Undoubtedly, for many, fantasy offers a temporary escape from day-to-day stresses and worries.

Heartland Values Reflected in Reading Preferences

Family-themed literature emerges as the most popular book genre in three states: Iowa, Mississippi and South Carolina. This category, encompassing everything from multi-generational sagas to contemporary domestic fiction, reveals a fascinating correlation with states known for strong community ties and traditional values.

The appeal of family-centered literature in these regions reflects readers’ interest in stories that explore lineage, heritage and interpersonal relationships. Another factor could be a cultural emphasis on understanding one’s roots and the intricate bonds that shape individual identity.

California Stands Alone in Its Love for Sleuthing

California distinguished itself as the only state where mystery and suspense literature ranks as the most-searched genre. This unique preference in America’s most populous state carries significant weight in the publishing industry, influencing trends and marketing strategies nationwide.

The Golden State’s affinity for mysteries may reflect its status as both the home of Hollywood noir and the setting for countless classic detective novels. From Raymond Chandler’s Los Angeles to Sue Grafton’s Santa Teresa (a fictionalized Santa Barbara), California has served as the atmospheric backdrop for iconic mystery fiction. Popular mystery genres include domestic thrillers, psychological suspense and police procedurals.

Massachusetts’ Solitary Love for History

Massachusetts distinguished itself as the only state where historical literature ranks as the most-searched genre. This unique preference aligns perfectly with the state’s status as a cornerstone of American history, from Plymouth Rock to the American Revolution, the abolitionist movement and beyond.

The Bay State’s affinity for historical narratives reflects both regional pride and educational demographics. Home to prestigious universities and a renowned publishing industry, Massachusetts readers demonstrate sophisticated literary tastes that embrace context and perspective.