Types of Nonfiction
Narrative Elements & Literary Devices
The Moon and Stars Talks
The House of Mourning
Unusual Normality
100

This type of nonfiction writing tells a true story, often focusing on personal experiences or events in a compelling, narrative format.

What is narrative?

100

This term refers to the process by which an author reveals the personality and traits of a character in a story.

What is characterization?

100

The borough of New York City in which Tara Clancy lived and grew up.

What is Queens?

100

Kate Braestrup works as this type of professional, helping families cope with grief.

What is a chaplain?

100

In "Unusual Normality," Ishmael Beah recalls playing this game with his friends, which provided a temporary escape and mimicked the realities of war without the actual danger.

What is paintball?

200

This form of nonfiction writing provides a detailed account of a person's life, often highlighting their achievements and impact on society.

What is biography?

200

This term refers to the perspective from which a story is told, such as first-person, second-person, or third-person.

What is perspective?

200

Tara's mom met Mark by cleaning his apartment here.

What is Manhattan?

200

Kate Braestrup reflects on the loss of her husband, who was this type of professional.

What is a state trooper?

200

The country where Ishmael Beah lived and grew up before emigrating to the United States at 17 years old.

What is Sierra Leone?

300

This type of nonfiction writing presents an author's argument or perspective on a specific topic, often reflecting personal opinions and insights.

What is an essay?

300

This narrative element encompasses the time and place in which a story occurs, influencing the mood and events of the narrative.

What is setting?

300

This is the name that Tara's mom gave to the deep conversations that Tara and Mark would have.

What are moon and stars talks?

300

Kate Braestrup uses this personal story to help baby game wardens learn how to help families cope with grief.

What is the death of her husband?

300

What tragic event did Ishmael Beah experience growing up?

What is a war?

400

This genre of nonfiction focuses on a specific aspect or period of a person's life, offering deeper insights and personal reflections.

What is a memoir?

400

The name for the plot diagram, depicting the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

What is plot?

400

By the end of the story, Tara has moved here. "But that is not because of fear. That's my choice."

What is Manhattan?

400

"Just walk fearlessly into the house of mourning, for grief is just ___ squaring up to its oldest enemy. And after all these mortal human years, ___ is up to the challenge."

What is love?

400

Ishmael Beah was forced to take on this job as a child as young as thirteen.

What is a soldier?

500

This form of nonfiction aims to inform the public about current events and issues, often relying on investigative reporting and interviews.

What is journalistic?

500

This element represents the underlying message or central idea that the author conveys through the narrative.

What is theme?

500

The story highlights this central theme, showing how unexpected connections can provide guidance and insight.

What is mentorship, or the power of human connection?

500

Kate Braestrup tells the story about a young girl who wants to see her cousin. When Nina does see him, what nickname does she say?

What is Andy Dandy?

500

On page 10 In "Unusual Normality," Ishmael Beah reflects on his lack of trust in happiness or this concept.

What is normality?

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