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3 1 Chapter True Adventure Definition More than any other genre, there is a strong parallel between the characteristics of nonfiction titles in this category and their fictional counterparts, although readers assuming that adventure titles will have some sort of swarthy character facing down an overt threat will miss out on a number of categories by relying on this cliché. The books included here feature stories of people facing challenges, overcoming great odds, and demonstrating remarkable courage and fortitude, and who are all the more remarkable for their veracity. Appeal Adventure is the genre in nonfiction most geared for escapist reading. While there are few studies of adult readers, consistent anecdotal beliefs persist that males are the primary readers of this genre. Books in this category’s subgenres tend to be fast-­ paced, and feature people facing dire situations, competing with—or hiding from— their enemies, or overcoming odds to go farther, faster, or win in the end. These stories provide librarians with an opportunity to tempt readers who have seen The Blind Side into trying one of the remarkable underdog stories, for example, while fans of spy fiction will be captivated by Neal Bascomb’s accounts of actual World War II missions. Chapter Organization This chapter starts off with “Survival and Disaster Stories,” which provide readers with harrowing tales of disasters and people working to save others from them. This is followed by “Sports Adventures,” true tales of athletes, teams, and sports figures overcoming stereotypes and odds. “War Stories” provide both historical and contemporary tales of bravery, valor, and resolve. The chapter concludes with tales of daring, danger, and determination, as men and women set off for parts unknown