At what point does a chapter book become a novel?

[Seasider]

I am keeping a record of dd's independent reading, trying to classify by broad categories so I can keep her reading varied (theoretically "at a glance").

 

I have recorded American Girl titles and realized that these are more like short novels that chapter books. They range from appx 95-120 pages, but there is a bit of depth in the plotting. So, I just wondered...what's the difference between long chapter book and novel (novella, novelette, etc)?

[Ellie]

If there are chapters, it's a novel.

 

Short stories don't have chapters.

 

I never heard the term "chapter book" until I started hanging out on homeschool forums. :) "Chapter books" is not a genre, whether the book is long or short.

 

ETA: I'd be more inclined to figure out which genre of novel, such as mystery, adventure, science fiction, etc., than to try to differentiate between a "chapter book" (which doesn't really exist) and a novel.

[Seasider]

If there are chapters, it's a novel.

 

Short stories don't have chapters.

 

I never heard the term "chapter book" until I started hanging out on homeschool forums. :) "Chapter books" is not a genre, whether the book is long or short. Ha! Maybe that's why I'm confused.

 

ETA: I'd be more inclined to figure out which genre of novel, such as mystery, adventure, science fiction, etc., than to try to differentiate between a "chapter book" (which doesn't really exist) and a novel.

 

I do also include the genre. I want to be able to make sure she's got a fair representation of all, though I know she will have more of what she prefers.

[Hunter]

I was just wondering this yesterday. I was reading a very short biography to a student and wondering if it was considered a chapter book. And now I can't seem to find the book. :glare: I wonder if she took it with her.