In genre studies, a coming-of-age story is a genre of literature, theatre, film, and video game that focuses on the growth of a protagonist from childhood to adulthood, or "coming of age". Coming-of-age stories tend to emphasize dialogue or internal monologue over action and are often set in the past.

Coming-of-age stories, a popular genre in literature, theatre, film, and video games, focus on the journey and growth of a protagonist from childhood to adulthood. Often set in the past, these narratives showcase the transformation and maturation of the main character as they experience life’s challenges and triumphs.