What distinguishes literary nonfiction from traditional nonfiction?

Literary nonfiction is a genre that uses literary techniques to tell a true story. It is different from traditional nonfiction in that it emphasizes storytelling and the use of literary elements such as plot, character development, and setting. While traditional nonfiction is focused on presenting factual information, literary nonfiction uses these elements to create a narrative that is both informative and engaging.

Option A, characterization, is a key element of literary nonfiction. It involves the creation of characters that are based on real people and the use of dialogue and other techniques to bring them to life. Option B, facts, are also important in literary nonfiction, but they are presented in a way that is more engaging and narrative-driven than in traditional nonfiction. Option C, biographical data, may be included in literary nonfiction, but it is not the defining characteristic of the genre. Option D, supernatural elements, are not typically included in literary nonfiction, as the genre is focused on telling true stories that are grounded in reality.

Therefore, the correct answer is A. Characterization.