Contemporary Realistic Fiction
Contemporary realistic fiction includes literature with fictional characters,settings, and events, but may happen in real life. Everything that happens in this type of genre is possible on Earth. This genre is one of the most popular because people are interested in themselves and find these stories the most familiar.
"This story takes place in my world. This is how I live. This book is about a girl like me."
-p. 133: Children's Literature, Briefly (5th Edition) by Michael O. Tunnell, James S. Jacobs, Terrell A. Young and Gregory Bryan (2011)
Common Categories:
Animals
The bond between animals and people is both timeless and a mainstay in the contemporary realistic fiction genre.
The Very Best of Friends
Author: Margaret Wild
Place of Publication: New York
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jocanovich
Date of Publication: 1989
Review: An old man's best friend is a cat that the wife does not seem to care for. The husband and the cat do everything together, but when the husband suddenly dies, the wife kicks the cat out of the house and tries hard to cope with the death of her husband. The cat is then left to take care of itself and after sometime, hates the world, has a torn ear, and is missing a patch of fur. When the wife starts to get back on her feet she tries to win back the cat's heart and apologizes for being so mean. The story ends with the suggestion that they may become best friends. This story is more of an emotional children's story with realistic twists. Although some events may seem unexpected and harsh, sometimes that is how life can be. The text is rather descriptive and matched with pictures that people can recall from similar experiences or imagine. After being kicked out, an example about the cat reads, "He meowed and howled and scratched the door. But Jessie didn't seem to hear him or see him" (pg. 18).
Author: Margaret Wild
Place of Publication: New York
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jocanovich
Date of Publication: 1989
Review: An old man's best friend is a cat that the wife does not seem to care for. The husband and the cat do everything together, but when the husband suddenly dies, the wife kicks the cat out of the house and tries hard to cope with the death of her husband. The cat is then left to take care of itself and after sometime, hates the world, has a torn ear, and is missing a patch of fur. When the wife starts to get back on her feet she tries to win back the cat's heart and apologizes for being so mean. The story ends with the suggestion that they may become best friends. This story is more of an emotional children's story with realistic twists. Although some events may seem unexpected and harsh, sometimes that is how life can be. The text is rather descriptive and matched with pictures that people can recall from similar experiences or imagine. After being kicked out, an example about the cat reads, "He meowed and howled and scratched the door. But Jessie didn't seem to hear him or see him" (pg. 18).
Humor
Humorous books are a great addition to every person's library. Reading a realistically funny story is sure bring smiles and giggles across all ages. These also includes riddle and joke books.
Mysteries
The fact that mysteries have captivated audiences is an ancient one. These stories are have been children's favorites since the 1920's.
Problem Novels
Problem novels arose when taboo topics became acceptable fare for children/young adult literature. These topics include physical and mental disabilities, peer-group pressure, abuse, terrorism, divorce, loneliness, and death.
"Act on your impulse,
Swallow the bottle,
Cut a little deeper,
Put the gun to your chest."
-Ellen Hopkins, IMPULSE
Impulse
Author: Ellen Hopkins
Place of Publication: New York
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Date of Publication: 2007
Review: The story is told from the perspective of 3 teenagers who all cross paths at an asylum after the 3 of them attempted suicide. The story goes through each of the characters' past and how it led up to them deciding that they didn't want to live anymore. The entire book is written in poems that really add meaning to the story. The structures and separation of words presented makes it an interesting and fast read. I think because there are several stories being told that are intertwined into one larger story, it makes it easier for teenagers to relate to. Although some parents may feel that their middle schoolers should not be reading an entertaining book about suicide, I think it could be helpful because it gives them something to relate to. The reality is that more young teens are attempting suicide and feel like no one else understands how they feel. If this book were read in a middle school class, it could generate more personal discussions and open up to the opportunity for students to ask important questions they may have.
Author: Ellen Hopkins
Place of Publication: New York
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Date of Publication: 2007
Review: The story is told from the perspective of 3 teenagers who all cross paths at an asylum after the 3 of them attempted suicide. The story goes through each of the characters' past and how it led up to them deciding that they didn't want to live anymore. The entire book is written in poems that really add meaning to the story. The structures and separation of words presented makes it an interesting and fast read. I think because there are several stories being told that are intertwined into one larger story, it makes it easier for teenagers to relate to. Although some parents may feel that their middle schoolers should not be reading an entertaining book about suicide, I think it could be helpful because it gives them something to relate to. The reality is that more young teens are attempting suicide and feel like no one else understands how they feel. If this book were read in a middle school class, it could generate more personal discussions and open up to the opportunity for students to ask important questions they may have.
School and Family Novels
As the title of this category states, these stories present realistic literature dealing with family and school life. The tone is usually lighter and the problems are less severe in this category than of those in problem novels.
Series Books
Books in this category are important to literacy development because the familiarity of characters provide comfort and story. These books have a main character that is memorable and eventually evolves into a series of adventures.
Sports
Stories in this category are often either game-focused or problem-focused. There is large emphasis on victory and drama. Although not very many titles make the Newberry list, it is not unheard of.
Survival and Adventure
Mostly set in the wilderness, this type of realistic fiction often offer adventure stories combining survival and discovery. The danger in these stories excite audiences and draw readers into the adventures.