Choosing the Right Reading Grade Level for Adult Novels

When writing a novel, particularly for adult audiences, the idea of a reading grade level often escapes our minds. This article explores the complexities of choosing an appropriate reading level, the influences of different writing styles, and the significance of respecting your readers and their intellect.

The Complexity of Reading Grade Levels

Writing for adults can be a surprisingly nuanced endeavor, with each story potentially calling for a unique set of characteristics. As an author, you might find yourself adapting your language and structure to the setting and the characters you create.

Adapting to Different Settings and Characters

Consider the differences in how you would write for a high-fantasy world compared to a modern setting. For example, the dialogue and narrative style for a character in a high-fantasy novel might differ significantly from that of a character in a modern setting. This is due to the unique requirements and expectations of each genre. Similarly, a historical mystery, if ever attempted, would require a distinctly different tone and vocabulary, catering to the historical context and the audience's expectations.

Balance between Vocabulary and Sentence Structure

One of the considerations when writing for younger audiences, such as in Young Adult (YA) literature, is the sentence structure rather than the vocabulary. Challenging younger readers with new words can be beneficial, but ensuring that the overall readability of the text remains accessible is crucial. However, when writing for adult audiences, the balance shifts towards a more sophisticated sentence structure, as well as a richer vocabulary, to keep the narrative engaging and thought-provoking.

My Approach to Writing Novels

The writing process I follow is more about creating the story rather than adhering to a specific reading grade level. It's important to note that while some readers might approach her works with a higher reading level, others might appreciate vocabulary that pushes their boundaries. My goal is to guide readers through complex narratives, providing engaging and intellectually stimulating experiences.

Example: Varying Vocabulary and Sentence Structure

Commanders of the Galaxy is an instance where more advanced words might be present, carrying a heavier meaning or being part of sci-fi jargon. This is a deliberate choice to create a rich and immersive universe, which might not necessarily align with a traditional reading grade level classification. The aim is to build a world that captivates and challenges, rather than to limit the narrative to a specific reading level.

Respecting Your Readers

It's vital to respect your readers and the intellectual capacity they bring to your work. Even if a piece is written with a vocabulary or sentence structure that might suggest a lower reading grade level, the intention should be to engage and inspire your audience. For instance, if a novel is intended for mature audiences, it might still contain complex vocabulary and intricate sentence structures, pushing the reader to engage more deeply with the narrative. The challenge lies in ensuring that the language used is not so complex that it deters understanding, but rather, it is sophisticated enough to provoke thought.

Encouraging Growth and Learning

Encourage your readers to challenge themselves and look up unfamiliar words or complex sentence structures. This can be a valuable learning experience, not only for children but also for adults. Providing a rich, varied lexicon and a well-structured narrative can inspire readers to expand their vocabulary and understanding, leading to a deeper connection with the story and its themes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right reading grade level for an adult novel is a complex and multifaceted decision that involves considering the genre, the intended audience, and the narrative's sophistication. Whether aiming for a historical mystery or a high-fantasy tale, the key is to balance complexity with accessibility, ensuring that the story resonates with readers of all levels of reading proficiency.

Ultimately, the joy of writing lies in sharing a story that inspires, challenges, and enriches the reader. By respecting the intellectual capacities of your audience and providing engaging narratives, you can create works that resonate with a broad spectrum of readers.