Chapter 7 Response

CHAPTER 7: Realistic Fiction

I never realized there were so many sub categories to realistic fiction children's books. These categories include mystery, survival/adventure, humor, animals, sports, family, and growing up. Realistic fiction gives the sense that the books components are plausible. I always loved reading realistic fiction books growing up because you can actually put yourself in a situation and become a part of the book.  There are many benefits to incorporating realistic fiction in curriculum because the stories can give students a more in depth understanding on real problems and allow them to see the world from different perspectives. But, the books should portray life in all of its contexts such as its many ups and downs. Realistic fiction books can also be incorporated in to all subjects and students can make connections across curriculum. 

One of the major difficulties of realistic fiction is evaluating and selecting a book. There are many sensitive issues associated with realistic fiction such as death, divorce, kidnapping, abuse, adultery, etc. Some of the evaluation criteria that should be focused on is characterization, setting, plot, theme, and style. As a teacher, I think you should learn about your students before incorporating a realistic fiction book in order to choose one they will most likely relate to. 

I love the quote James McCosh, "one should not read a book that thinks for you, but one that makes you think." Books should always get your brain working and create thought. Realistic fiction books do this in a variety of ways by using realistic situations to tell a story that students can evaluate based on their own experiences, as well as what they have read in the book.