What is Author's Purpose?

Have you ever wondered why authors write books? There are many reasons! Understanding why an author writes something is called understanding the author's purpose. Authors write to share ideas, stories, and information with us. Let's explore the three main reasons why authors write: to inform, to persuade, and to entertain.

To Inform

Sometimes, authors want to teach you something new. They might write a book about animals, space, or history. When an author's purpose is to inform, they give you facts and details. You can often find books that inform in the library's non-fiction section.

For example, a book about penguins might tell you where they live, what they eat, and how they take care of their babies. The author's goal is to give you information about penguins.

To Persuade

Other times, authors want to convince you to think or do something. When an author's purpose is to persuade, they try to get you to agree with them. They might share their opinion and give you reasons to support it.

For example, an author might write a letter to the editor to persuade people to support a new park. They would give reasons why the park is important and why people should help make it happen.

To Entertain

Authors also write to make you laugh, feel happy, or be excited. When an author's purpose is to entertain, they tell stories that are fun and interesting. These stories might have made-up characters and exciting adventures.

For example, a book about a talking dog who solves mysteries is written to entertain you. The author wants you to enjoy the story and have a good time while reading.

How to Find the Author's Purpose

To find the author's purpose, ask yourself: What is the author trying to do? Are they giving me facts, trying to convince me, or telling me a story? Once you know the answer, you'll understand the author's purpose!