Books as Desserts: A Bakery Case of Genres

I have to credit Claire for this idea: she called Georgette Heyer romances “little fluffy pastries” and I, of course, took it a step too far.

I have strong opinions about books and dessert. Like dessert, different genres of books inspire my praise or rouse my ire. I scream the same epithets when someone brings cobbler to a potluck that I use when an acquaintance recommends a historical thriller.

All of us can be as picky about books as we are about pastry.

Here is my personal take on genres and the desserts with which they correspond.

Historical nonfiction = scones
Dry and unsatisfying.

Science fiction = durian ice cream
Pretty weird and not for everyone.

YA romance = Costco sheet cake
I used to be able to eat a lot of it, but now it makes me sick.

Mysteries = cupcakes
I love trying unique flavors, but even those can be a bit boring.

Social science books = donuts
Whenever these are offered, I devour at least three.

Magical realism = chocolate
I want to try every single variety, especially the foreign ones.

Memoir = cheesecake
When I pick the right flavor, nothing satisfies me more.

Children’s lit = muffins
Comfort food.

Historical fiction = cobbler
I refuse to consume this unless there are interesting ingredients.

High fantasy = gummy candy
Much more my brother’s’ speed than mine.

Christian fiction = fruit salad
Everyone pretends to like it much more than they do.

Theology = pumpkin pie
One bite and I’m good for another year.

Classic literature = rice pudding
I can appreciate it more as an adult.