Book Genres Book Genres Book Genres 1
Historical Fiction Historical fiction can make history come alive for readers. Characteristics of historical fiction: a made- up story takes place during an actual time period in history. the details of life during the story's time period are accurate. 2
For example, the historical fiction story may be about a young boy growing up during the medieval times or a girl who lived during the American Revolution. 3
An author who writes historical fiction will begin by researching the time period in which the story will take place. He or she wants to be sure all details in the story are accurate, such as the clothing people wore, the methods of transportation used, and what homes were like during the time. Sometimes authors include actual people who lived during the time period. For example, the story of the girl who lived during the American Revolution could include an encounter with Paul Revere. 4
Mary pushed her way to the front of the crowd. She squeezed between the long, wide skirts of the women who lined the streets in front of her. She wanted to see the man she had heard so much about. The men and women around her shouted and waved as the future first President passed. They wanted to show their support for George Washington as he journeyed from Mount Vernon to New York City, where he would take his oath of office. As Washington passed in front of her, Mary looked closely at him. He was a tall man, with blue eyes and a rather large nose. Although many supportive admirers were calling out their praises to him, he looked wise and thoughtful rather than proud and confident. 5
What elements of this passage make it historical fiction? Mary is a fictional character. The story takes place in the 1700's, and George Washington did become president. What historical character is described in this passage? George Washington What fictional character is described in this passage? Mary 6
During what time period does this story take place? This story takes place during the late 1780's. George Washington was inaugurated on April 30, 1789. What clues tell you when the story takes place? George Washington was traveling to New York for his inauguration. Women wore long, wide skirts. 7
Realistic Fiction Realistic fiction is invented by an author, but the story elements, such as characters, setting, and plot, are very realistic. Characters do not have extraordinary abilities. Readers can relate to the characters and their experiences. 8
**The setting in realistic fiction may be a small town or a city location, but it must be a place that is somewhat familiar to readers. **The plot could actually happen and does not involve any outlandish events. 9
Ms. Lin directed the new girl to take the seat next to Caroyn. All eyes followed the girl as she walked toward her desk, but Ms. Lin quickly called everyone back to attention. The girl did not look up at Ms. Lin but instead concentrated on the key she was carrying. Carolyn also stared at the key, trying to figure out what was so interesting about it. As far as she could tell, it was just an ordinary key. Carolyn leaned slightly to the left to get a better look at it. The girl noticed Carloyn's movement and immediately closed her hand around the key and dropped her hand to her lap. She quickly sneered at Carolyn then looked at Ms. Lin. Carolyn felt embarrassed that she was being so nosy, but she could not help being curious. Her mother had said curiosity would get Carolyn into trouble someday. Maybe today was that day. Nonetheless, Carolyn was determined to find out why that key was so important to the girl. 10
Why would this be considered realistic fiction? The characters, setting, and plot are realistic rather than imaginary or extraordinary. 11
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Realistic Fiction 12
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Historical Fiction 13
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Realistic Fiction 14
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Historical Fiction 15
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Realistic Fiction 16
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Historical Fiction 17
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Historical Fiction 18
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Realistic Fiction 19
Historical or Realistic Fiction? Realistic Fiction 20
Historical or Realistic Fiction? FANTASY!!!! 21