Realistic fiction is writing that, although invented, depicts a completely realistic scenario. Realistic fiction contains believable characters, plot, and settings, and highlights relatable issues for the contemporary reader.
What is Realistic Fiction?
Realistic fiction is writing that, although invented, depicts a completely realistic scenario. Realistic fiction contains believable characters, settings, conflicts, and resolutions. These stories tend to take place in the present or recent past, making it easy for readers to connect to them. Their themes highlight relatable issues for the modern reader. As a result, realistic fiction is usually tied to its contemporary time period by its setting, dialect, technology, and themes.
Realistic fiction has roots in the Realist movement of the 19th century. Prior to this movement, authors expected a certain dramatic arc to their writing, often forcing a Romantic, unrealistic, or predictable outcome. Language was expected to be literary in quality, with a certain formality and high level of diction. Realism altered literary style by bringing everyday events into the narrative and allowing for realistic characters and plot outcomes, at the expense of dramatic effect. Realist literature also stressed the use of regional dialect and realistic dialogue. Together, these changes formed a basis for the realistic fiction that exists today.
Today’s realistic fiction covers a broad swathe of topics. It contains believable characters who act within our own world, often in specific and identifiable locations. The characters speak using contemporary dialogue, including slang and sentence fragments as most of their readers would. Realistic stories and novels address themes relevant to their readers; these may include stories of self-discovery, coming of age, triumphing against the odds, or fighting for justice regarding a hot-button social issue. The tone of these novels ranges widely. Readers can select humorous, gritty, or romantic stories, for example, based on their own preferences. Many options make realistic fiction an accessible genre of literature and a popular option for readers of all ages and backgrounds.
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Try it for Free!Realistic Fiction Examples
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
- Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
- The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore
- The Last Cherry Blossom by Kathleen Burkinshaw
- From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks
- The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
- Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
- To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
- Holes by Louis Sachar
Want to learn more? Check out our educational article on Literary Genres!
How Tos about Realistic Fiction: Literary Genre
How to Create an Engaging Realistic Fiction Writing Activity for Your Classroom
Choose a relatable theme. Select a topic that connects to students’ everyday lives, such as friendship, family, or overcoming challenges. This helps students see themselves in their stories.
Guide students to brainstorm realistic characters.
Encourage students to create characters with believable personalities, interests, and backgrounds. Ask guiding questions like: ‘What does your character enjoy doing? What is a challenge they face?’ This adds depth and authenticity.
Help students set the story in a familiar place.
Suggest settings such as the school, neighborhood, or local park. Invite students to describe details they know well to make the story feel real and relatable.
Model how to build a realistic plot.
Demonstrate how stories start, have a problem, and resolve. Share examples from books or personal experiences so students understand how events unfold naturally.
Encourage peer sharing and feedback.
Organize small groups for students to read their stories aloud and give positive, specific feedback. This boosts confidence and improves writing skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Realistic Fiction: Literary Genre
What is realistic fiction?
Realistic fiction is a genre of literature where stories are set in the real world and feature characters, events, and settings that could actually exist. The plot and details are believable, even though the story itself is made up.
How can teachers use realistic fiction in the classroom?
Teachers can use realistic fiction to help students connect with real-life challenges, explore social issues, and develop empathy. Lesson plans may include reading stories, discussing characters' decisions, and writing their own realistic fiction pieces.
What are examples of realistic fiction books for students?
Popular realistic fiction books for students include Wonder by R.J. Palacio, Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, and Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson. These books feature relatable characters and realistic settings.
What is the difference between realistic fiction and fantasy?
Realistic fiction is based on real-life situations and believable characters, while fantasy includes magical elements, mythical creatures, or impossible events that could not happen in the real world.
Why is realistic fiction important for students?
Realistic fiction helps students understand different perspectives, relate to characters facing real problems, and improve their emotional intelligence. It encourages empathy and critical thinking about everyday life.
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