Realistic Fiction

 In this type of literature, the setting, characters, and events usually reflect plausible real life events. It is considered fiction because the events or characters didn’t actually happen. When reading realistic fiction, students can relate to the character’s experiences. It helps students gain a better understanding of the same problems that they are facing in the real world. Realistic fiction also helps readers gain the ability to think about improvements in their life and apply a solution.  Critical issues that readers may face with this framework can be stereotyping and bias context. These issues can bring up sensitive issues among the students. It is a good idea for teachers to discuss any issues that surface when reading realistic fiction. Teachers can use this work to help teach different content areas like Science, Social Studies and Language Arts as well as student development and self-awareness. 
Teachers can help reduce censorship of sensitive issues by:

• Keeping current in the filed. 
• Obtain selections that offer support from national organizations.
• Communicate with parents.
• Evaluate books with children.
• Prepare a school policy statement for selecting books.
• Adopt a formal complaint procedure. 

Stephanie’s Ponytail by: Robert Munsch

Grades 1-2

Each day Stephanie shows up to school with a unique hairstyle. She is teased for the style, but then the rest of the school end up copying her look. No matter what the comments are from the other students, Stephanie sticks to her own look. At the end, Stephanie tells the school she will show up bald, but doesn’t actually cut her hair. She arrives to school to find everyone bald!

Because of Winn-Dixie by: Kate Dicamillo

Grades 3-4

This is a story about fitting in and finding who you are and where you belong. Students can identify with the main character, if they have ever felt lost and unsure of whom they are. For students who have just moved to a new school, this book would be a great choice for them to relate to.

Holes by: Louis Sachar

Grades 5-6

Holes is a great story about coming to find oneself. After dealing with countless events resulting in bad luck, the character finally is forced to put his luck to the test. Students can relate to this story with the many attempts and trying to succeed and feeling like there is never going to be a break for your self. Teachers can use this story to teach students about never giving up hope and to always apply yourself 100%!