Contemporary Realistic Fiction

Definition

Kiefer (2010 describes realistic fiction as • realistic literature containing “imaginative writing that

accurately reflects life as it was lived in the past or could be lived today” (p. 390)

• focuses on the problems and issues of living today• the dividing line between contemporary realistic fiction

and historical fiction is set at the 1950s (anything written after the 1950s that meets the definition above is considered realistic fiction)

Values of Realistic Fiction

1. Provides children a better understanding of human problems and human relationships, including a greater understanding of themselves and their potential

2. Helps children expand their points of view by gaining others’ perspective

3. Reassures young people that they are not the only ones facing problems

Values of Realistic Fiction (cont.)

4. Illuminates experiences that children have not had5. Some books may serve as preparation for living6. Serve as possible models (good and bad) for coping

with human problems

Issues Relating to Realistic Fiction

1. What is real?2. How graphic must the provided descriptions be?3. Do they perpetuate bias and stereotyping?4. What must the author’s background be?5. What is age-appropriate when categorizing realistic

fiction?

Evaluation Criteria

• Does the book honestly portray the realities of life for today’s children?

• Does the book illuminate problems and issues of growing up in today’s world?

• Does the story transcend the contemporary setting and have universal implications?

• Are the characters convincing and credible to today’s child?

• If violence or other negative behavior is part of the story, does the author provide motivations and show aftereffects?

• Does the author avoid stereotyping?• Does the book truly represent the experience of the

culture depicted?• Does the book help children enlarge their personal points

of view and develop appreciation for our ever-changing pluralism in society?

Evaluation Criteria (cont.)

Title Author Description

Frindle Andrew Clements A school story focusing on the relationship between a student and his teacher.

Because of Winn Dixie

Kate DiCamillo A heart-warming story about a 10-year-old girl and her dog, and how their relationship opens her up to a new world.

Holes Louis Sachar A humorous story of Stanley Yelnats and other wacky characters in a Texas reform camp. Å Few Quality

Realistic Fiction Titles